How to Register for a Board/Licensure Exam
The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) administers licensure examinations for over 40 regulated professions in the Philippines. Passing the board exam is a mandatory requirement before you can practice your profession legally. This guide walks you through the entire registration process — from creating your PRC online account to checking your board exam results.
Who Needs to Take the Board Exam?
- Graduates of CHED-recognized degree programs in regulated professions (e.g., Nursing, Engineering, Accountancy, Education, Medicine, Criminology)
- Individuals who completed the required academic curriculum and are eligible to sit for the licensure examination
- Foreign professionals seeking to practice a regulated profession in the Philippines (subject to reciprocity agreements)
- Previously failed examinees who wish to retake the board exam (no limit on retakes for most professions)
- Graduates of foreign schools whose credentials have been evaluated and recognized by PRC
⚠️ Important: Exam Schedules and Deadlines
PRC releases the schedule of board examinations at the beginning of each year. Registration periods are strictly enforced and typically open 2-3 months before the exam date. Late applications are not accepted. Always check the official PRC website or the PRC Online Services portal for the latest exam schedule, filing deadlines, and any changes or postponements. Missing the registration deadline means you will have to wait for the next scheduled examination.
Step-by-Step: How to Register for a Board Exam
Create a PRC Online Account
All board exam registrations are processed online through the PRC Online Services portal. If you don't have an account yet, you need to create one first.
- Go to online.prc.gov.ph
- Click "Register" or "Create Account"
- Fill in your personal information: full name (must match your school records exactly), date of birth, email address, and mobile number
- Upload a scanned copy of a valid government-issued ID
- Create a strong password and verify your email address
- Wait for account verification (usually within 24-48 hours)
Tip: Use the same name format as it appears on your diploma and transcript of records (TOR). Any discrepancy in your name may cause delays in your application.
File Your Online Application (LERIS)
Once your PRC online account is verified, log in and file your exam application through the Licensure Examination Registration Information System (LERIS).
- Log in to your PRC Online Services account
- Navigate to "Examination Services" or "Apply for Board Examination"
- Select your profession and the specific examination schedule you want to apply for
- Choose your preferred testing center/city (Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, Tacloban, Tuguegarao, Zamboanga, or other regional centers)
- Fill out the application form completely and accurately
- Review all information before submitting — errors may require re-filing
- Submit the online application and take note of your application reference number
Pay the Examination Fee
After filing your application, pay the examination fee through any of PRC's authorized payment channels. The standard examination fee for most board exams is ₱900.
- Over-the-Counter: Pay at authorized banks (Land Bank of the Philippines), bayad centers, or payment partners (7-Eleven, Bayad Center, SM Business Centers)
- Online Banking: Pay via online banking platforms of PRC's partner banks
- E-Wallets: Pay through GCash, Maya (PayMaya), or other supported digital wallets
- PRC Cashier: Pay directly at PRC regional or satellite offices
- Keep your official receipt or payment confirmation — you will need this for your records
- Payment must be made within the prescribed period after filing your application
Note: The examination fee is non-refundable. If you miss the exam, the fee cannot be transferred to the next examination schedule. Make sure you are committed before paying.
Upload Requirements
After payment is confirmed, upload the required documents to your PRC online account. Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and in the correct file format (usually JPEG or PDF).
- Diploma — Scanned copy of your college diploma from a CHED-recognized institution
- Transcript of Records (TOR) — With Special Order (SO) number, authenticated by CHED if applicable
- PSA/NSO Birth Certificate — Original copy issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority
- Passport-size Photos — Recent photos with white background (usually 2x2 or passport-size as specified)
- Marriage Certificate — For married female applicants whose name has changed (PSA-issued)
- Valid ID — Government-issued identification with photo and signature
- School Certification — Some professions require a certification from the school that the applicant has completed all academic requirements
Print the Notice of Admission (NOA) / Examination Permit
Once your application has been reviewed and approved by PRC, you will receive a Notice of Admission (NOA) or Examination Permit through your online account. This is your official authorization to take the board exam.
- Log in to your PRC Online Services account and check the status of your application
- Once approved, download and print the Notice of Admission (NOA)
- The NOA contains your exam schedule, assigned testing center, room assignment, and seat number
- Print at least 2 copies — one for submission and one for your personal reference
- Verify that all information on the NOA is correct (name, exam date, venue)
- If there are errors, contact PRC immediately before the exam date
Prepare for Exam Day
Proper preparation on exam day is crucial. Here's what you need to know and bring:
- What to bring: Printed NOA / Examination Permit, valid government-issued ID (same ID used in your application), pencils (Mongol No. 2), black ballpoint pen, eraser, and sharpener
- Arrive early: Be at the testing center at least 1 hour before the scheduled exam time
- Dress code: Wear decent attire — collared shirt or polo is recommended; avoid slippers
- Not allowed: Mobile phones, electronic devices, bags, calculators (unless specified), books, notes, and other reference materials are NOT allowed inside the exam room
- Exam format: Most board exams use a multiple-choice format with answer sheets that are scanned electronically
- Duration: Exams typically last 1-2 days depending on the profession, with morning and afternoon sessions
Check Board Exam Results
Board exam results are typically released within 2-10 working days after the last day of the examination, depending on the profession.
- Results are posted on the PRC official website: www.prc.gov.ph
- You can also check results through the PRC Online Services portal using your account
- Results are also announced through PRC's official social media pages
- The list of successful examinees includes the examinee's name and school
- Top 10 placers are also announced separately with their ratings
- If you passed, proceed to apply for Initial Registration (PRC ID)
- If you did not pass, you may retake the exam on the next scheduled date — there is generally no limit on retakes
Requirements for Board Exam Registration
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Diploma | Scanned copy of your college diploma from a CHED-recognized Higher Education Institution (HEI); must bear the school's dry seal and authorized signatures |
| Transcript of Records (TOR) | Official TOR with Special Order (SO) number from CHED; must reflect all completed subjects and grades; some professions require an authenticated copy |
| NSO/PSA Birth Certificate | Original birth certificate issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), formerly NSO; must be on security paper (SECPA) |
| Valid Government-Issued ID | Any valid government ID with photo and signature (e.g., PhilID, Passport, Driver's License, Voter's ID, SSS/GSIS ID) |
| Passport-size Photos | Recent passport-size colored photos with white background; complete name tag; usually 4 pieces required; must be taken within the last 6 months |
| Marriage Certificate (if applicable) | PSA-issued Marriage Certificate for married female applicants who are using their married name; required if the name on your diploma differs from your current legal name |
| School Certification / Endorsement | Certification from the school Dean or Registrar that the applicant has completed all academic requirements for the degree; required for some professions |
| Payment Receipt | Official receipt or proof of payment for the examination fee (₱900 for most professions) |
Note: Requirements may vary slightly depending on the profession. Some board exams may require additional documents such as a Certificate of Training, Affidavit of Undertaking, or clearance from your Professional Regulatory Board (PRB). Always check the specific requirements for your profession on the PRC website.
Complete Example: Registering for the Board Exam
Scenario: Maria Santos, BSN graduate from a university in Manila
Situation:
- Graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree
- Wants to take the Nursing Licensure Exam (NLE)
- First-time board exam taker
- Exam is scheduled for November
Documents prepared:
✓ BSN Diploma (from CHED-recognized nursing school)
✓ Transcript of Records with SO number
✓ PSA Birth Certificate (original on security paper)
✓ PhilID (valid government ID)
✓ 4 pcs passport-size photos (white background)
✓ Payment for examination fee
Process:
1. Created PRC Online Account at online.prc.gov.ph
- Registered using her full name as it appears on her diploma
- Verified her email address and mobile number
- Account approved within 24 hours
2. Filed Online Application through LERIS
- Selected "Nursing" as profession
- Chose November exam schedule
- Selected Manila as testing center
- Filled out all required personal and academic information
3. Paid Examination Fee of ₱900
- Paid via GCash for convenience
- Saved the payment confirmation screenshot
4. Uploaded Requirements
- Scanned and uploaded diploma (JPEG format)
- Uploaded TOR with SO number
- Uploaded PSA Birth Certificate
- Uploaded passport-size photo (digital copy)
5. Received and Printed NOA
- Application approved after 5 working days
- Downloaded Notice of Admission from PRC account
- Printed 2 copies of the NOA
- Verified exam venue: University of Santo Tomas, Manila
6. Exam Day Preparation
- Brought NOA, PhilID, pencils, and ballpoint pen
- Arrived at testing center 1 hour early
- NLE was held over 2 days (5 subjects total)
7. Checked Results
- Results released 3 working days after the exam
- Checked at www.prc.gov.ph — PASSED!
- Proceeded to apply for Initial Registration
Result:
✓ Passed the November NLE
✓ Applied for Initial Registration (PRC ID)
✓ Received PRC Professional ID Card
✓ Now a licensed Registered Nurse (RN)
Total Cost: ₱900 (examination fee only)
Total Duration: Filing to results = approximately 3 monthsBoard Exam Fees by Profession
| Profession | Examination Fee | Exam Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing (NLE) | ₱900 | 2 days | Twice a year (May & November) |
| Certified Public Accountant (CPA) | ₱900 | 2 days | Twice a year (May & October) |
| Civil Engineering (CE) | ₱900 | 2 days | Twice a year (May & November) |
| Licensure Exam for Teachers (LET) | ₱900 | 1 day | Twice a year (March & September) |
| Criminology | ₱900 | 2 days | Twice a year (April & September) |
| Medicine (PLE) | ₱900 | 4 days | Twice a year (February & August) |
Note: Examination fees shown are the standard PRC exam fees. Some professions may have slightly different fees. Always verify the current fee on the PRC website before paying. Additional fees may apply for document processing and other services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register for a board exam at PRC?
Board exam registration is done entirely online through the PRC Online Services portal at online.prc.gov.ph. You need to create an account, file your application through LERIS, pay the examination fee (₱900 for most professions), upload the required documents, and then print your Notice of Admission (NOA) once your application is approved. Walk-in applications at PRC offices are generally no longer accepted — all applications must be filed online.
How many times can I retake the board exam?
For most professions, there is no limit on the number of times you can retake the board exam. You can register for the next available exam schedule after receiving your results. However, if you have failed the exam three (3) consecutive times, some Professional Regulatory Boards may require you to complete a refresher course or additional academic requirements before you can retake the exam. Check with your specific PRB for their retake policies.
Can I change my exam schedule after filing my application?
Generally, no. Once you have filed your application and paid the examination fee, you cannot transfer your registration to a different exam schedule. The examination fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. If you miss the exam, you will need to file a new application and pay the fee again for the next scheduled examination. In exceptional cases (e.g., PRC postpones the exam), PRC will issue specific instructions on how affected examinees can adjust their schedule.
Where are the board exam testing centers located?
Board exams are conducted in multiple testing centers across the Philippines. Common testing center locations include Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, Tacloban, Tuguegarao, and Zamboanga. The specific venues available for each exam depend on the profession and the number of examinees. You can choose your preferred testing center city during the online application process. Your exact room and seat assignment will be indicated in your Notice of Admission (NOA).
When are board exam results released?
Board exam results are typically released within 2 to 10 working days after the last day of the examination. The release date varies by profession — exams with fewer subjects (like the LET) usually have faster results. Results are published on the official PRC website (www.prc.gov.ph), the PRC Online Services portal, and PRC's official social media pages. The Top 10 passers are announced separately with their ratings and schools.
What is the passing rate for board exams?
The passing grade for most board exams is a general weighted average of 75%. However, you must also meet the minimum rating in each individual subject (usually no grade below 50% in any subject). Some professions have additional requirements, such as practical or clinical examinations. The overall national passing rate varies by profession and exam schedule — for example, the NLE passing rate typically ranges from 40-60%, while the CPA board exam passing rate is usually around 25-40%.
What should I do if I encounter problems with my PRC online application?
If you experience technical issues with the PRC Online Services portal, you can contact PRC through the following channels: call the PRC hotline at (02) 8651-4728, send an email to the PRC Help Desk, or visit the nearest PRC regional office for in-person assistance. Common issues include account verification delays, document upload errors, and payment confirmation delays. During peak registration periods, the PRC website may experience heavy traffic — try accessing it during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening).
Important Reminders
- File early: Don't wait until the last day of the filing period. The PRC website may experience heavy traffic near the deadline, causing delays and system slowdowns.
- Double-check your information: Ensure your name, date of birth, and other personal details on your PRC account match your official documents exactly. Any discrepancies may cause your application to be rejected or delayed.
- Non-refundable fee: The examination fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. Once paid, it cannot be applied to a different exam schedule.
- Keep copies of everything: Save digital and printed copies of your application form, payment receipt, uploaded documents, and Notice of Admission (NOA).
- Check for updates: PRC may announce schedule changes, venue changes, or additional requirements. Regularly check the PRC website and your PRC online account for any updates.
- Bring the right materials: On exam day, bring only authorized materials. Using unauthorized materials is grounds for disqualification.
- Plan ahead for initial registration: If you pass, you will need to apply for Initial Registration (PRC ID) as a separate process after the oath-taking ceremony.
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general informational purposes only. The requirements, steps, fees, and procedures mentioned here may vary depending on the PRC office you visit. We recommend visiting your nearest PRC office first to confirm the specific requirements and process before preparing your documents.
Need Help?
Contact PRC
- PRC Hotline: (02) 8651-4728
- Email: prc.helpdesk@prc.gov.ph
- Website: www.prc.gov.ph
- Online Services: online.prc.gov.ph
Visit PRC Office
For in-person assistance, visit the PRC Central Office in Manila or any PRC Regional Office nationwide. Bring a valid ID and any relevant documents. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (except holidays). Regional offices are located in Cebu, Davao, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, Tacloban, Tuguegarao, and Zamboanga.