How To Get Nurse License In Another State

Moving as a nurse might seem intimidating. Despite the reasons for your move, it can feel like you have so many things to do, let alone obtaining a nursing license in another state. It can all feel like too much.

The good news is that obtaining a license in another state isn't that difficult. If you have a multistate license, it's even easier! Having a multi-state license allows you to practice in any state that is a compact state. A compact state (NLC) only requires that you hold a single compact license for nursing as it transfers between states.

Initial process

Once you decide to move, make sure to determine if you live in a compact state and hold a multistate license. Then find out if the state you are moving to is a compact state. If so, under the nursing compact, you are allowed to carry a multistate license in the states that are under the compact. In other words, you can practice in multiple states with one license. There are currently 34 states that are part of the compact (with more to follow). For example, if you live in Alabama and you decide to practice in Georgia, you don't need to get a new license in Georgia.

After figuring out if your state is part of the compact, you are ready to move on to the next steps of the moving process.

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Apply for a new license

You have to apply for licensure for endorsement regardless of what state you are moving to. Licensure by endorsement is a way to transfer your nursing license and eligibility from one state to another. To be eligible for licensure by endorsement, you must have an active license from another state and have passed the NCLEX.

If you are moving from a compact state to another compact state, you may practice temporarily on your former state license until your multistate license from your new state is issued. The transfer process is easy.

All you have to do is apply for licensure by endorsement to the new state. While each state has its own process for licensure by endorsement, the process generally involves paying application fees, verifying your license, passing the NCLEX, and providing transcripts. After finishing that process, you can practice on your multistate license until your license by endorsement is processed.

If you are moving from a compact to a non-compact state, there's an additional step you must take in addition to applying for licensure by endorsement. You will have to let your previous state board of nursing (where you had a compact) know that you are no longer living there. Your license will then turn into a single state license where you have moved.

If you are moving from a non-compact to a compact state, a multi-state license may be issued if residency and eligibility requirements are met. You must apply for licensure by endorsement in your new state. Only nurses who declare a compact state as their primary state of residence may be eligible for a multi-state license.

Last, If you plan on moving from a non-compact state to a non-compact state, you must contact the new state board of nursing and apply for a new license in that state.

The best site to check on your license status is the National Council of State Board of Nursing's Nursys site. This site allows you to check on your license at any time.

Questions from the Incredible Health Nurse Community

How do you renew your RN license for the first time ? Is there any reminder via email or postal mail beforehand ? Can you renew earlier ?
Hi How can I start working as a nurse if I have license from another state in PA? No experience related.

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