Compact nursing states are those that participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The NLC is a partnership among USA states that allows registered nurses (RNs) to have a multistate license called a compact license. This license allows RNs to work in the state they acquired their license in, as well as in other compact states.
The NLC was established in 1999 to facilitate nursing practices across state lines, making it easier for nurses to provide care in multiple states.
As of May 2024, there are 42 states who partake in the NLC.
List of Compact States for Nursing:
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Guam (Guam is allowing nurses who hold active, unencumbered, multi-state licenses issued by Nurse Licensure Compact member states to practice in Guam under their multi-state licenses.)
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana (Registered Nurse and Practical Nurse)
- Maine
- Maryland
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania (Partial implementation)
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Vermont
- Virgin Islands (eNLC enacted, awaiting implementation)
- Washington
- West Virginia (Registered Nurse and Practical Nurse)
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
What is a Compact Nursing License?
A compact nursing license allows registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/VNs) to practice in multiple compact states without the hassle of having to obtain a separate license for each state.
Benefits of a Compact Nursing License
Compact nursing is hugely beneficial for traveling nurses, as it allows them to practice nursing across multiple states, as long as those states participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact. It empowers nurses to travel the country and accept assignments without the need for multiple licenses.
Other benefits include lowered licensing costs, a streamlined system for background checks, increased job opportunities, and easier relocation between states.
How to Get a Compact Nursing License
To acquire a compact nursing license and work as a health professional in a compact state, you must have proof of residency and a current, active nursing license in that same compact state. Once you have a compact nursing license, you can then practice nursing, either physically or virtually, in any other participating compact state.
You can register for a compact state nursing license via your state’s Board of Nursing website.
Get Reimbursed for Your Compact License
Ready to start your adventure? One of the first steps is your compact license and when you travel with us and complete your licensing process, Mader MedX will reimburse you for the cost!
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