For nurses looking to expand their career opportunities across state lines, the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) has been a game-changer. This agreement allows registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPNs/LVNs) to practice in multiple states without needing to apply for individual licenses. As the healthcare industry faces ongoing staffing challenges, more states are considering joining the compact to streamline the licensure process and improve workforce mobility.
What is the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)?
The Nurse Licensure Compact is an agreement between participating states that grants nurses a multistate license, allowing them to practice in any NLC state without additional licensing requirements. This benefits nurses who relocate, travel for work, or provide telehealth services across state lines.
The compact simplifies the licensing process by eliminating redundant applications and fees, making it easier for nurses to respond to workforce shortages and disaster relief efforts.
Benefits of the NLC for Nurses
Joining the NLC offers numerous advantages for nurses, including:
- Increased Job Opportunities: Nurses can take travel, per diem, or remote positions without the hassle of reapplying for licenses in each state.
- Flexibility for Relocation: Moving to a new state within the NLC means a nurse can start working immediately without delays.
- Telehealth Expansion: As telehealth grows, nurses can provide virtual care across multiple states without licensing barriers.
- Faster Response to Healthcare Needs: In times of crisis or staffing shortages, nurses can be quickly deployed to high-demand areas.
As of March 2025, the following 41 states have implemented the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses with a multistate license to practice across these states without obtaining additional licenses:
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New MexicoWikipedia
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Some states have enacted NLC legislation but are pending full implementation
- Connecticut (tentative implementation date: October 1, 2025)
- Massachusetts (implementation pending)
- Pennsylvania (partial implementation as of September 5, 2023; tentative full implementation date: 2025)
What to Do If Your State Is Not in the NLC
If your state has not joined the compact, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement in each new state where you plan to work. This process typically involves:
- Submitting an application and paying state fees
- Providing proof of your current nursing license
- Completing background checks and additional state-specific requirements
For the most up-to-date information, check with your state nursing board or use resources like Map My Pay to explore salary comparisons, job opportunities, and cost-of-living factors in different states.