Ky.gov

Jurisprudence Exam

The Jurisprudence Exam is a computerized exam on 35 questions that tests the applicant of their knowledge of Kentucky nursing law. It is an “open book” style exam. It is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

Please review the Jurisprudence Exam Study Guide​.


  • First, submit an application for licensure to the KBN.
  • Go to the application status link to access the jurisprudence exam.
    • Once you key in your social security number and select search, it will bring up a link that states “Click here to take the Jurisprudence Exam.”
      • There will be a Jurisprudence ID number listed next to this link – make note of this number as you will need it while registering for the exam.
      • If you do not list the Jurisprudence ID number found on your Kentucky application status, the results will not be sent to the KBN.
  • This is very important to note as the KBN will not be able to process your application until your Jurisprudence Exam results are received.
  • Failure to list the Jurisprudence ID number on the exam registration will result in a delay in your application being processed.  
    • Once you have clicked to take the Jurisprudence Exam, the course will pull up and there is a $15 icon.  
      • You will click this icon to add to your shopping cart.
      • Then you will enter your information to create an account.​
      • Follow the steps to purchase and complete course.​
  • One field will ask for your Kentucky ID.  This number is the Jurisprudence ID, which is the number located on your application status.

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  • The fee is $15, which will be paid directly to NCSBN.
    • The KBN is not involved in the collection of this fee and it is subject to change without notice.
  • The exam is available for three (3) weeks after payment is accepted by NCSBN. If the exam is not completed within three weeks, you will have to pay another $15 fee to NCSBN to access the exam.
    • If this occurs, you will follow the steps above, but when you go to register you will have to create a new username. It will not allow the username to purchase the same exam twice.
  • If the exam is not completed in one sitting, responses are saved and you may return back to the exam where you left off.

  • After you have taken the exam and achieved a score of 80% or higher, you will want to download a copy of the completion certificate for your records.
  • If you do not achieve an 80% or higher within three (3) weeks of purchase, the exam will expire and you will have to re-purchase.
    • If this occurs, you will follow the steps above, but when you go to register, you will have to create a new username. It will not allow the username to purchase the same exam twice.
  • Contact NCSBN International Center for Regulatory Scholarship support via email at icrs@ncsbn.org.​​
  • LPN and RN applicants for licensure by examination 
  • LPN and RN applicants for licensure by endorsement
  • LPN and RN applicants for licensure by reinstatement
    • All LPN and RN applicants who have a KY nursing license that has lapsed for one year or more must complete the jurisprudence exam.
  • RN and APRN (combined) applicants for licensure by endorsement
    • The jurisprudence exam must be completed before a temporary authorization to practice may be issued.
  • RN and APRN (combined) applicants for licensure by reinstatement
    • All RN/APRN applicants who have a KY nursing license that has lapsed for one year or more must complete the jurisprudence exam.