Anyone can call themselves a nurse online, but only a registered nurse is on the official register. Checking takes a minute, and it is free in most countries.
Imagine hiring a private nurse to care for your father at home. She seems lovely, but how do you know she is actually qualified and has no restrictions on her practice?
Why registers exist
Nursing councils and boards keep public registers so patients, employers and the public can confirm that a nurse is qualified, licensed and safe to practise. Registers usually show any conditions, suspensions or removals.
Where to check
- United Kingdom: the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) “Search the register” tool
- United States: the state board of nursing website, or Nursys QuickConfirm from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing
- Australia: the Ahpra public register of practitioners
- New Zealand: the Nursing Council of New Zealand register search
- Canada: the register of the nursing regulator in each province or territory
- Ireland: the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) register
- Other countries: the national nursing council’s website or verification service
What to look for
- The nurse’s full name and registration number
- Registration type, such as registered nurse, midwife or nurse practitioner
- Whether registration is current or has lapsed
- Any conditions, restrictions or suspensions
If something looks wrong
If a person says they are a nurse but you cannot find them, ask for their registration number and check again. If you still have concerns, contact the nursing council directly.
Frequently asked questions
Is it legal to check someone’s registration?
Yes. Registers are public precisely so people can check them.
Does the register show past disciplinary cases?
Many registers show current sanctions, and some publish hearing outcomes. Rules differ by country.
But I don’t want to seem distrustful
Employers check registration routinely. Nurses expect it and good nurses welcome it.
Your next step: Bookmark the official register for your country so you can check quickly when you need to.
Sources: Nursing and Midwifery Council (UK), National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Ahpra, Nursing Council of New Zealand, Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland.
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