How do you get a compact or multistate nursing license? What is a multistate nursing license? What license do I need to be a travel nurse? These are all questions that new travel nurses ask themselves. Travel nursing is a rewarding and exciting career! Don’t let the confusion of travel nurse licensing stop you from leaping! Agencies have knowledgeable credentials and licensing specialists on staff to guide you through the licensing process. Below, we have a comprehensive guide on travel nurse licensing.

  • Graduate from an accredited nursing program
  • Pass the NCLEX
  • Make sure your state is in the NLC
  • Apply for your license through your state’s Board of Nursing website

Successfully obtaining a compact nursing license involves completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX examination. Additionally, ensure that your state participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) and then proceed to apply for your license via the online platform provided by your state’s Board of Nursing.

What is A Compact Nursing License (eNLC)?

Compact Nursing States

The easiest way to travel to a nurse is to obtain a compact license. The National Council State Board of Nursing developed the Nursing Licensure Compact program (NLC). This program allows nurses with one state license to work in other states in the NLC without applying for other state licenses. Currently, 39 out of 50 states participate in this program. One state, Pennsylvania, is enacted but is pending implementation. To be eligible for a compact nursing license, you must live in one of the 39 states. Not sure where you reside? Think about the state you file taxes, vote, and have a driver’s license. Just because you have a residence in a state doesn’t mean that it is your home state.

5 Benefits of A Compact Nursing License

A multistate license comes with many benefits over a single-state nursing license. Even if you have a permanent position in your home state, there are benefits of owning a compact license. Below is a list of benefits:

  1. Save Money – You don’t have to pay for individual state licenses within the NLC states to travel nurse
  2. Start Traveling – having a multi-state license opens the doors for you to do local or cross-country travel nursing.
  3. Flexibility – Having the ability to work throughout the nation gives you the flexibility to move as you please
  4. Help Communities That Need You – By having a multi-state license, you can travel to areas that are in desperate need of nurses because of shortages or regional disasters.
  5. Bring Home The Bacon – You can sometimes make more money by nursing in different states. The compact license allows you to float to different states and practice nursing.

How to Apply For A Compact Nursing License?

  1. Graduate from an accredited nursing program
  2. Pass the NCLEX
  3. Make sure your state is in the NLC
  4. Apply for your license through your state’s Board of Nursing website

WHICH STATES ARE INCLUDED IN THE MULTI-STATE NURSING LICENSE?

Below is a list of states with links to their state licensing requirements.

AlabamaAlaskaArizona ArkansasCalifornia
ColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFlorida
GeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndiana
IowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaine
MarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippi
MissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew Hampshire
New JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth Dakota
OhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode Island
South CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtah
VermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsin
Wyoming

Steps to Getting a Multistate Nursing License?

There are three answers to the question “how to get a compact nursing license”.

  • License By Exam
  • License By Renewal
  • Convert Single State License to Multi-State

Keep in mind, as stated above, you can only receive a compact license if you reside in one of the 39 NLC states. Below are the three ways to get a compact nursing license.

#1 Compact Nursing License By Exam

Many people wonder how to get a multistate nursing license. The easiest way is by exam when you are a newly registered nurse! If you live in a state that is already part of the Nursing License Compact, you can apply for a multi-state license right off the bat. Even if you are just planning to travel nurse within your state, this still leaves the door open for great opportunities later down the road. Some local travel nurses will travel to a neighboring state when the rate is right. You want to have options!

#2 Compact Nursing License By Renewal

You must renew your nursing registration every few years to continue nursing. When it is time to renew your nursing license, you can upgrade your single-state license to a compact state license if your state recently joined the NLC. You can renew your license by visiting your state’s Board of Nursing.

#3 Single-State Nursing License to Multi-State License

Some nurses received their nursing license before their state was in the NLC. If this is the case, they may have to re-apply to convert their single-state license to a multi-state. For example, if you got your resident nursing license in Florida, Georgia, Oklahoma, West Virginia, or Wyoming before you joined the NLC in 2019, then you should complete the Board of Nursing application for a multi-state license.

You can also update your license on the Board of Nursing website when you move residencies from one compact state to another compact nursing state. If you are moving from a compact state to a non-compact state, you may be issued a temporary single-state license in your new state of residency. Check out this fact sheet for more information on changing licensure when moving.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET A MULTI-STATE NURSING LICENSE?

The timeframe for obtaining a multi-state nursing license can vary depending on several factors, including the specific requirements of the licensing board and the individual applicant’s circumstances. Generally, the process involves several key steps:

  • Eligibility Check: Before initiating the application process, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria set by the nursing board. Requirements may include holding an active, unrestricted license in your home state, completing a nursing program, and meeting any additional state-specific criteria.
  • Application Submission: Submit a multi-state nursing license application to the nursing board of your home state. This application may involve documentation of your education, licensure, and other relevant information.
  • Background Check: Many states require a criminal background check as part of the licensing process. This step can add additional time, as the processing time for background checks varies.
  • Verification of License: The nursing board will verify your current license in your home state. The speed of this process depends on the efficiency of communication between different state nursing boards.
  • Processing Time: Once your application is complete and all required documentation is submitted, the processing time by the nursing board can range from a few weeks to several months. Factors such as the volume of applications, staffing levels, and unforeseen circumstances can impact processing times.
  • Expedited Options: Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee. If time is a critical factor, check if this option is available and feasible.
  • Notification and Issuance: Once your multi-state nursing license is approved, you will be notified, and the permit will be issued. This may involve receiving a physical permit or an electronic version, depending on the state.

It’s essential to regularly check the status of your application and promptly respond to requests for additional information to expedite the process. Additionally, staying informed about the specific requirements of the states you are applying to can help streamline the overall timeline. Remember that the information provided here is general, and the process may vary based on individual circumstances and state regulations.

HOW MUCH DOES A MULTI-STATE NURSING LICENSE COST?

The cost of obtaining a multi-state nursing license can vary based on several factors, including the state nursing board’s fees, background check costs, and any additional expenses associated with the application process. Here are the key components to consider:

  1. State Nursing Board Fees: Each state nursing board sets its own fees for processing multi-state nursing license applications. These fees can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. The specific amount depends on the state’s policies and may be subject to change, so it’s crucial to check with the respective state nursing boards for the most up-to-date information.
  1. Background Check Fees: Many states require a criminal background check as part of the licensing process. The associated fees for this check can vary, and the applicant typically bears them. Background check costs may include fingerprinting fees and processing charges.
  1. Expedited Processing Fees: Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee. If you need your multi-state nursing license expedited, you may incur extra costs for faster processing.
  1. License Renewal Fees: Multi-state nursing licenses have renewal fees that are due periodically. These fees cover the cost of maintaining and updating the license. The renewal frequency and associated fees vary by state.
  1. Additional Costs: Depending on your situation, there may be additional costs such as mailing fees for sending documents, notary fees for document verification, and any fees associated with fulfilling specific state requirements.
  1. Continuing Education Costs: Many states require nurses to fulfill continuing education requirements for license renewal. These courses may have associated costs, and it’s essential to budget for them to ensure compliance with state regulations.

It’s important to carefully review the fee structures of the states you are applying to and factor in all associated costs when budgeting for a multi-state nursing license. Additionally, be aware that fees are subject to change, and it’s advisable to check with the relevant state nursing boards or licensing authorities for the most accurate and current information.

What Kind of Nursing License Does a Travel Nurse Need?

You have some options for travel nursing in a state that isn’t your home state. Many factors play into which road you will go down like the Nursing Licensure Compact program, specific state, and urgency of need. Don’t let this overwhelm you. When you are on staff with an agency, like PRN Healthcare, they will help you through the process. A rule of thumb is to apply for a license right away if you think you will want to travel outside of your resident state. The turnaround time to receive a license can take a few months. Normally you will get one of the three licenses below:

  • eNLC License (also known as a compact license)
  • Temporary License (when waiting for a permanent license)
  • State-Specific License (For nurses who reside in non-compact states or to work in a state that is not in the NLC)

Keep in mind if you were already licensed with a compact multi-state nursing license after you passed the NCLEX, you are in the clear if you want to travel within the 39 states listed below. Just make sure your license is active and has not expired.

What is a Temporary Nursing License?

A temporary nursing license is a temporary state license that allows a nurse to practice while awaiting a permanent license. This licensure can take a few months to receive once requested. The license is valid for 30 days to six months, depending on the state.

What is a Single-State Nursing License?

A single-state nursing license is a great way for nurses who do not live in a compact state to still practice within the NLC states. You can apply for a nursing license in any of these states by endorsement. This essentially will give you a single-state license for the compact state you applied for. This is only valid for one state. A travel nurse can have as many single-state licenses as they want. Although this can get pricey with registration fees, see if your agency will reimburse you for this. To obtain a single-state nursing license, you must apply through the state’s Board of Nursing. Every state has different requirements.

You have multiple roads to take to start travel nursing. You can get a compact nursing license, a single-state license, or a temporary license to start travel nursing. Travel nurse licensure can feel overwhelming; be sure to talk to your credentialing team at your agency. Have more questions? We would be happy to chat with you!