Seven Requirements for Becoming a Nurse in Ontario
To practise as an RN or RPN, you must hold a current General Certificate of Registration with the College. You will need to meet seven requirements in order to obtain a General Certificate of Registration. All applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Completion of an acceptable nursing or practical nursing program.
- Evidence of recent safe nursing practice.
- Passing the national nursing registration examination.
- Evidence of fluency in written and spoken English or French.
- Registration or eligibility for registration in the jurisdiction where you completed your nursing program.
- Proof of Canadian Citizenship, Permanent Residency, or authorization under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada) to engage in the practice of nursing.
- Good character and suitability to practice, including a Canadian Criminal Record Synopsis (Criminal Record Synopsis Fact Sheet). This includes the following:
- information about whether your nursing license has ever been denied or encumbered;
- whether you've been involved in proceedings regarding professional misconduct/ incompetence/incapacity;
- information about any criminal convictions; and
- information about any physical or mental condition/illness that may affect your ability to practise.