Criminal Background Check and Fingerprinting
Register with Georgia Applicant Processing Services (GAPS) website after submitting your Georgia Board of Nursing (GBON) application.
Steps:
1. Visit the Georgia Applicant Processing Service (GAPS) website
2. Select:
○ “Secretary of State”
○ “Board of Nursing”
3. Accept Terms and fill out the Applicant Registration Form (use personal email)
4. Once approved, you’ll receive fingerprinting instructions via email.
5. Schedule and complete fingerprinting at a designated site.
○ Bring valid photo ID and your GAPS ID #
○ Must be completed within 90 days of email receipt.
Authorization to Test (ATT)
Once all application materials are reviewed and approved:
- Pearson VUE will send an Authorization to Test (ATT) via personal email.
- Follow the link to schedule your NCLEX exam at any available testing center and time.
- Allow 7–10 business days to receive the ATT. If more than 10 days pass after degree confirmation, contact your school’s nursing department.
Georgia Board of Nursing (GBON) Requirements for Licensure Approval
- Degree verification (submitted by your school)
- Notarized Citizenship Affidavit
- Valid Secure & Verifiable Document
- Criminal Background Check and fingerprints via GAPS
- GBON Criminal Background Check Release Form
Important Reminders
Use your legal name on all applications—this must match your ID and diploma. Use a personal email address, not a school or work email. Be honest regarding any legal history. Even expunged charges must be disclosed. Upload all supporting court documents and a personal explanation.