Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)

For more information about the new changes to the NLC as of January 2, 2024 (Regarding the amended residency rule)

Current NLC States and Status

States in blue are part of the compact. As such, an RN or LPN (VN in some states) who is actively licensed (multi-state license) in their primary state of residence (PSOR), with no encumbrances, may practice in any other blue state. Please be aware. Even if you are not practicing in your primary state, you are responsible for knowing the Nurse Practice Act and any additional rules of the state, province, or territory you are presently practicing in. Practice happens where your patient physically is.

If you were to violate any part of their Nurse Practice Act or rules, the state you are practicing in has the authority to discipline your privilege to practice accordingly. In order to practice outside of your PSOR with an encumbered license, you will have to be licensed directly in that state, just the same as if it were a NON-compact state. DO NOT PRACTICE UNLICENSED.

States that are not blue are not part of the compact. This means you must apply with their Board of Nursing and be licensed with them in order to practice in that state, province, or territory. This principle applies if your license is, or has become, encumbered.

For more information on the Nurse Licensure Compact, please visit the NLC page HERE

Explanation of the NLC for Nurses

Explanation of the NLC for Nurse Employers

Making Travel Nursing Easier with a Multi-State License

FAQ

How do I know I am eligible for a multi-state license?

Your primary state of residence (PSOR) is a compact state
You are eligible to be licensed in your PSOR
Your current, active RN, LPN (VN) license is unencumbered
You have graduated a Board approved nursing program
You have passed the NCLEX-RN/-PN
You have submitted a completed application and FBI fingerprint cards or other biometric data as required for a criminal background check
You are NOT enrolled in ANY alternative program to discipline
You have NOT been convicted of a felony offense or misdemeanor offense related to the practice of nursing
You have a valid United States social security number

Can I practice in another state on a temporary permit?

No.

I'm graduating soon, where do I apply for my multi-state license?

You will apply in the state in which you will be practicing in.

Do I need to apply for a new multi-state license in each state that I'm practicing in?

No. The multi-state license allows you to practice in any compact state without having to get a new license in every state you practice in. It works very similar to your drivers license.

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