To determine the reliability of the Philippine nurse licensure examination (PNLE) results from 2010 to 2019.

The PNLE first-time pass rate (FTPR) is a major criterion used to evaluate nursing program quality. There is wide variability in PNLE results ranging from 0% to 100% across nursing schools. There are no published studies to investigate the reliability of the PNLE.

Aretrospective correlational research design was used to determine the reliability of PNLE. Secondary data analysis of 517 nursing schools' PNLE FTPR results was conducted. Descriptive statistics described trends in PNLE results over 10 years. Spearman correlation was used to determine PNLE reliability.

The PNLE FTPR increased from 2010 to 2019. More than half of Philippine nursing schools have low PNLE performance. Combined annual PNLE results, that is, adding May/June and November/December results, provided a more accurate measure of reliability.

The PNLE is a reliable measurement tool to evaluate nursing program outcomes. Regulatory bodies should use caution in using PNLE results as a criterion in assessing nursing program quality.