Registered Nurse (RN)

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Photo of Allison Baker
Department Chair, Nursing
PhD, RN
Dept of Nursing

US State List for Licensure Transfer

Meets

Alabama

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses. 34 states have implemented the compact. Alabama is a participating state.

List of participating states

RN by Endorsement

An RN who has already been licensed in a U.S. jurisdiction will apply by endorsement. The candidate will submit an endorsement application, then have supplemental materials sent to the Board. The candidate will need official transcripts as well as license verification from the original state of licensure. The candidate will also need to demonstrate 24 hours of continuing education, completed during the previous two-year period. CE certificates, unlike official transcripts, may be faxed.

A notarized copy of a current license is adequate status verification for a temporary permit, but not a permanent license. The CE requirement does not have to be met before the temporary permit is issued. It can be issued on the basis of only three things: application, fee, and notarized photocopy. There is an $85 application fee and an additional $50 charge for those requesting a temporary permit.

State License Verification:

  • Nurse license verification for endorsement is available for many, but not all, Boards of Nursing through NURSYS, an online service for requesting secure electronic verification of licensure between Boards of Nursing and is maintained by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Link: https://www.nursys.com/
Arizona

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact. Arizona is a participating state.

List of participating states

Out of State Registered Nursing License Candidates

Graduates who do not become licensed within two years must take a refresher course. The same goes for out-of-state nurses who have not practiced at least 960 hours during the previous five years (or obtained an advanced degree during this time period).

Nurses from other compact states must apply to Arizona if it is to become their primary state of residency. Applicants who are applying for licensure by endorsement pay a $150 application fee.

Candidates who were educated in foreign countries must demonstrate the educational equivalency of their programs. CGFNS Certification is an option for registered nurses. A CES Professional report or VisaScreen is also acceptable, as is license verification from one of several approved organizations. In the case of Canadian applicants, Arizona will accept evidence of licensure along with passing scores on the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination.

Foreign candidates also must demonstrate English proficiency unless they have met education or practice requirements in the language. Arizona considers that the clinical portion of the educational program was in English if English was the dominant language of the county or Canadian providence.

Arkansas

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses. 34 states have implemented the compact. Arkansas is a participating state.

List of participating states

RN Licensure by Endorsement

RNs licensed in other states may apply for licensure by endorsement. If a nurse has not been in active practice for 5+ years, the candidate will need to document continuing competency. This can be done by verifying either 1,000 hours of practice in the preceding year or a recent graduation. If a candidate can not verify competency through any pathway acceptable to the Board, the candidate will need to take a refresher course. Learn more at the Arkansas Department of Health website.

Colorado

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Colorado is a participating state.

List of participating states

Out of State RNs

RNs who have already taken the NCLEX-RN and been licensed in another jurisdiction should apply for license by endorsement. There is a $43 fee. They will need to provide license verification from the initial state of licensure. There is a separate application packet for endorsement candidates. Questions ask whether the candidate currently holds a license or has held one in the past two years, whether the candidate has practiced nursing in the past two years, and whether the candidate has taken a refresher course. Some candidates will need to submit a competency form. They may also be required to take a board-approved refresher course. Candidates who hold current licensing and answer “no” to the screening questions (indicating that they don’t have a legal or disciplinary history and don’t have conditions that would impede safe practice) may request temporary permits. This will allow them to work in the state before all the paperwork goes through.

A past conviction or disciplinary proceeding does not always result in denial of licensure. It does mean that the board will need to give careful consideration to the circumstances.

International RNs should first get a healthcare professions report, then apply to the Colorado Board to take the NCLEX-RN. Those from non-English speaking parts of the world will also need to pass an English exam through CGFNS; they should get an English language proficiency exam report.

Delaware

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Delaware is a participating state.

List of participating states

Out-of-State and International RN license Candidates

An applicant who has previously worked as a nurse should send an employer reference form to the most recent employer. If an employer returns the form without making performance comments (because it is against some policy), the Board will contact the applicant to provide a copy of a recent work evaluation.

Candidates must also get license verification from the state they were initially licensed. Depending on the state in question, this will be done via a written form or online at www.nursys.com. The candidate may visit the website of the Delaware site to see a list of states that utilize Nursys. A photocopy of the current license should be included with the application as well.

Candidates should verify recent experience (1,000 hours in the previous five years or 400 in the previous two). Otherwise, a refresher may be required. The refresher course will be at least 120 hours (40 of theory and 80 of practice).

Candidates with active licenses should use the endorsement application form. Unless a candidate graduated from a program within the previous two years, the candidate will be expected to list continuing education on the form.

The endorsement process can take 4 to 6 weeks, but out-of-state RNs who have job offers in Delaware may be issued temporary permits. The results of the criminal background check do need to be in before the permit can be issued.

International nurses should use the application for license by examination. They should get a certificate from CGFNS to evaluate/ validate their education.

Florida

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Florida is a participating state.

List of participating states

Out of State Applicants for Registered Nursing Licensure in Florida

Applicants already licensed in a U.S. state or territory may apply by endorsement. They must submit license verification from their current state of licensing as well as from the initial state (if different). There is a $175 fee for application and initial licensure. Fees for fingerprinting may vary (as will the fee the home state charges for license verification).

Military spouses may apply for temporary licensure. They have the same requirements, but a lesser fee. In addition to the standard documents, they must submit military orders and proof of marriage. They must also establish that they are in good standing in the state or territory where they hold licensing.

Candidates from other countries or from U.S. territories that are not under the jurisdiction of the NCSBN must apply to take the NCLEX exam. Canadian RNs who took the CNATS before August 8, 1995 may be exempted. They may use the application packet for license by endorsement.

Candidates outside the jurisdiction of the NCSBN are also responsible for having their education evaluated. They should be aware that the process could take several months. If the nursing coursework was not completed in English, English competency must be demonstrated via another route. Florida accepts several English language exams and several types of educational program as evidence of competency. If a person has taken a college course for credit in the U.S., they are considered English proficient.

Georgia

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses. 34 states have implemented the compact. Georgia is a participating state.

List of participating states

Out of State RN License Candidates

Endorsement candidates for RN are expected to have at least 3 months (or 500 hours) of work experience unless they graduated in the preceding four months. If they do not meet experience requirements, they will need to have a refresher course.

Endorsement applicants should download application forms and any applicable supplements. They should include an email address in the application; that way, the Board can provide information that will allow them to track the status of their application. There is a $60 fee to apply by endorsement.

There is some additional paperwork for endorsement candidates who completed nontraditional programs. Forms can be downloaded in PDF form.

Foreign candidates are eligible for licensing, but there are additional requirements. They must have educational equivalency evaluated. They must also demonstrate English proficiency.

Idaho

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Idaho is a participating state.

List of participating states

For candidates not residing in Idaho:

An RN who is currently licensed and in good standing in another state may apply for license by endorsement. A verification form and employer reference will be required. Some states use Nursys.com to simplify the verification process. A candidate who has at any point been licensed by one of the states listed in the application packet will be able to handle license verification through a single online form (even if the candidate has been licensed in multiple states). Other candidates use paper forms.

The endorsement fee is $110. The candidate will also need to pay for fingerprinting. A nurse who has not been in active practice during the three years preceding may be required to do a refresher.

Indiana

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Indiana is a participating state. 

List of participating states

Out-of-State RNs

A nurse who is licensed in another U.S. jurisdiction can apply by endorsement, assuming the candidate has passed the NCLEX or its predecessor, the SBTPE.

The nurse will need to provide license verification for all healthcare licenses the candidate has held. An endorsement candidate may be issued a temporary permit which will get working sooner. For this, the candidate will need a copy of the current license.

Iowa

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Iowa is a participating state. 

List of participating states

RN Licensure by Endorsement

RNs who are licensed in other states should use the application for license by endorsement. License verification will be required.

Internationally educated nurses should provide evidence of CGFNS credential evaluation or certification even if the candidate has since been licensed in another state http://nursing.iowa.gov/. Applicants will not be required to show evidence of English proficiency at this stage.

Kansas

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Kansas is a participating state.

List of participating states

Out of State RNs (Until eNLC is enacted)

RNs licensed in other U.S. jurisdictions can apply for license by endorsement. The application fee is $75. It will be necessary to provide license verification. Out-of-state nurses with clean legal and disciplinary histories may request a temporary permit so that they can work while going through the licensing process. Employers can verify that the permit has been issued by faxing 785-296-8643.

RNs who were licensed in other states on the basis of distance learning programs that did not include the required clinical component may still be eligible for licensure by endorsement. The condition is that they must have worked at least 1,000 hours as registered nurses.

RNs from other countries must go through the GCFNS to have their qualifications evaluated.

Kentucky

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Kentucky is a participating state. 

List of participating states

Endorsement Candidates

There is a $150 fee for licensure by endorsement. Endorsement candidates must show evidence of a license in good standing. They will need to have a federal criminal background check.; fingerprint cards may be requested online.

Endorsement candidates will need to provide educational transcripts if they graduated from a school of nursing in one of the following states: California, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Pennsylvania, or Washington. California graduates will not be issued a temporary permit until their transcript arrives.

Any candidate who has been licensed for at least five years must show evidence of continuing competency. A nurse who has not practiced at least 500 hours during the preceding five years must do a refresher course or 120 hours of continuing education. A nurse who has not practiced at least 100 hours should call the endorsement coordinator to inquire about requirements. The Board will accept refresher courses taken in the recent past (http://www.kbn.ky.gov/).

Endorsement candidates will need to do some additional coursework via continuing education. However, it doesn’t necessarily have to be complete at first licensing.

Applications are typically reviewed within two weeks. However, if an applicant has a disciplinary or criminal history the review process may take three months. Candidates who answer a questions in error should fax the correction to this number: 502-429-3336.

Louisiana

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Louisiana is a participating state. 

List of participating states

RN License by Endorsement

An RN licensed in another state may apply by endorsement. There is a separate application packet for this purpose. The applicant must send a nursing data form to the program where the candidate got the qualifying degree. If the nursing education was split between two institutions, the candidate should request transcripts from each. The applicant will be expected to verify recent nursing experience as well as nursing licenses. Verification of past LPN licensing (if the RN ever worked in this capacity) is also required. Some states utilize Nursys.com for verification. RNs who graduated from Excelsior or Deaconess College must take additional steps to verify experience.

An endorsement candidate will pay $142.50 if the candidate mails the application, or $152.50 if the candidate brings it in and has the fingerprints done on-site.

An RN who has a job offer in the state may be issued a temporary permit. There is a walk-in service for this purpose. The candidate should have the application notarized before the candidate shows up at the office; a recent passport style photo should be attached. The applicant may have the fingerprints done on site. The candidate should have either a notarized copy of the current nursing license or nursing verification from Nursys.com. An endorsement candidate requesting to work under a temporary permit will pay $192.50 if the candidate mails materials, $202.50 if the candidate shows up on site. (The candidate should make sure that the candidate’s at the office by 3:00 and should not leave until the candidate confirms that the fingerprints are acceptable.) An applicant who answers yes to compliance questions (indicating legal or disciplinary history or conditions that may impede safe practice) is not eligible for a temporary license; the candidate must wait for a full review.

Some candidates may be required to take refresher courses. The LSBN has a list of approved courses. Some out-of-state refresher programs have been approved.

In the event of a disaster, an out-of-state registered nurse who wishes to serve in Louisiana as either a volunteer or paid employee may be granted a disaster permit. The candidate should fax a copy of the out-of-state license and the driver’s license along with this required form.

Maine

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Maine is a participating state. 

List of participating states

Out of State RNs

RNs licensed in other states may apply by endorsement. They must obtain verification from their Board that their license is in good standing. Additionally, they must show evidence of having completed at least a two year program in nursing. In many cases, the license verification will provide this information. In other cases, transcripts will be required. They will be needed if an RN entered the field through a less traditional route (LPN to RN or completion of the certificate portion of a master’s program) or if the license verification does not include the required information. In the case of LPN to RN, both practical nursing and professional nursing transcripts are required.

Endorsement applications must be accompanied by a $75 nonrefundable fee. If an applicant was not licensed on the basis of passing the NCLEX, the NCLEX will be required at this time. A 90-day letter may be issued to a candidate who is going through the endorsement process.

Maryland

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Maryland is a participating state.

List of participating states

RN by Endorsement Candidates

Endorsement candidates may apply online. An application fee of $100 will be required. An additional $40 will be assessed if the applicant wants to work under a temporary license. The applicant must have fingerprints done (though not necessarily processed) in order to be eligible for the temporary license

Mississippi

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses. 34 states have implemented the compact. Mississippi is a participating state. 

List of participating states

Out of State RNs

Candidates who have already passed the NCLEX-RN may be eligible for licensure by endorsement. License verification will be required. Mississippi requires official transcripts. They should include the date of completion or graduation and the degree conferred; the candidate should request that the school of nursing send them directly to the Board. Internationally educated nurses should have a copy of their CGFNS report sent instead.

A nurse who is currently licensed in another state may request a temporary permit when the candidate applies for endorsement. The candidate will pay an additional $25 fee (for a total of $125). The candidate must attach a copy of the current license with expiration date.

If a nurse has not practiced within the previous five years, the candidate will have to demonstrate continuing competency through another route. The candidate should contact the Mississippi Board.

Missouri

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Missouri is a participating state. 

List of participating states

Out of State Applicants

A candidate with a license in another U.S. state or jurisdiction may apply by endorsement. An endorsement applicant pays $55.

International nurses must have a course by course evaluation from one of the agencies that the Board has approved for this purpose. (Fees may vary according to the service selected.)

International applicants pay the same $45 fee to apply to the Missouri Board that other examination candidates do. In addition to a copy of their license, they should have a copy of their birth certificate, or an acceptable alternate document, and marriage certificate (if applicable). The Board notes that licensees must have a U.S. social security number.

English proficiency can be demonstrated through any of the following exams: TOEFL, IELTS, or TOEIC.

Once an international candidate has been found eligible, the Board will send information about registering for the NCLEX.

Montana

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Montana is a participating state.

List of participating states

Out of State RNs

An RN who has already been licensed on the basis of an approved exam may apply for license by credentialing. The candidate will need to provide proof of licensure from the first state where the candidate was licensed and from any other state where the candidate has held a license in the previous two years.

A registered nurse applying for license by credentialing pays $200 to the Montana Board.
International RNs who have not yet taken the NCLEX apply for license by examination. They must complete a qualifying exam through CGFNS before taking the NCLEX. They must also have their credentials professionally evaluated. An English proficiency exam will be required of those who do not come from one of the exempted countries.

Those who have passed the U.S. licensing exam and are applying by endorsement should still provide a copy of their course evaluation.

Nebraska

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses. 34 states have implemented the compact. Nebraska is a participating state.

List of participating states

Out of State and International RNs

A candidate who is, or has been, licensed in another state can apply by endorsement. The candidate will need to supply license verification in addition to the usual application materials. If the state does not utilize the Nursys online system, the candidate will fill out the upper portion of the verification form found in the application packet and send it to the licensing agency (along with whatever fee that state requires). If the candidate wants to practice under a temporary permit while materials are being received and processed, the candidate will need a notarized copy of a current license.

A nurse must show continuing competency by having practiced or taken a refresher course in the prior five years (unless the candidate is a relatively recent graduate). If a candidate has not already met the minimum requirements, the candidate should enroll in an approved refresher course (http://dhhs.ne.gov/licensure/Pages/Nurse-Licensing.aspx). Approved courses include at least 75 total hours.

Before an internationally educated candidate can be authorized by Nebraska to take the NCLEX-RN, the candidate must show that the candidate has passed a qualifying exam. The Department will accept the CGFNS or the Canadian Licensing Examination.

Internationally educated professional nurses who have deficiencies (as determined by CGFNS) may pursue LPN licensing while they make up those deficiencies. Nursing assistant is also an option.

New Hampshire

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  New Hampshire is a participating state. 

List of participating states

Out of State RNs

RNs who are currently licensed in other U.S. jurisdictions may apply by endorsement. Application fees are the same as they are for those applying by examination. There is a continuing competency requirement. Nurses who have not practiced the minimum number of hours will need to do a structured refresher course or retake the NCLEX. Those opting for the refresher course will apply for a temporary permit sometime after they enroll but before they actually begin. There is a list of approved courses on the Board Site. All include, at minimum, 40 hours of instruction and 80 hours of clinicals.

New Mexico

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  New Mexico is a participating state.

List of participating states

Out of State RNs

An RN who passed the NCLEX-RN in another jurisdiction may be licensed by endorsement. Official license verification is required. The Board notes that license verification may be requested before the licensing application is sent.

The fee for an endorsement applicant is $110 if a temporary license is not required, $160 if it is. The $44 criminal background check fee must be paid separately. The Board notes that it is very important that any criminal or disciplinary history is disclosed on the application form. A temporary license may be issued before results from the criminal background check have been received, but information that surfaces later could result in action against the license.

North Carolina

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  North Carolina is a participating state. 

List of participating states

RN by Endorsement

The fee for an RN license by endorsement is $150. A temporary license may be issued to an RN who is currently licensed in another state; this allows the RN to begin work while paperwork is being processed. The candidate will need a notarized copy of the license. Official verification will eventually be required.

North Dakota

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  North Dakota is a participating state.

List of participating states

RN by Endorsement

An RN who passed the required exam in another jurisdiction can apply for license by endorsement. In addition to the application itself, the candidate will need a criminal background check, official transcripts, and license verification from the first state where the candidate held licensing. The candidate may be issued a temporary permit once the application, transcripts, and fee have arrived.

If the nurse is not a relatively recent graduate and has not practiced at least 400 hours in the preceding four years, the candidate will need to do a refresher course, however.

Students in refresher programs may be eligible for a forgivable loan through the Nursing Education Loan Program

Oklahoma

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Oklahoma is a participating state. 

List of participating states

Out of State RNs

An endorsement RN will need license verification from the original state of licensure; if it doesn’t provide enough information about the qualifications, RN will need to submit transcripts as well.

If a nurse does not meet the minimum practice requirements, nurse will need to display continuing competency through education. Relatively recent graduates are exempted. Military spouses are not subject to the same active practice requirements.

Internationally educated nurses will need to provide a certification, VisaScreen or educational evaluation from CGFNS. In order to be eligible for licensure at the RN level, they will need to demonstrate coursework and clinical work in mental health nursing as well as adult, pediatric, and maternal-infant care. International candidates will also need to display English proficiency unless they are from one of the English speaking countries on the exemption list.

South Carolina

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  South Carolina is a participating state.

List of participating states

Out of State RNs

An out of state candidate must submit an official transcript to the Board if he or she wishes to be licensed by examination.

An RN already licensed in another jurisdiction can apply by endorsement. South Carolina accepts the NCLEX and the SBTPE. An RN who was licensed without passing one of these exams is still eligible for endorsement provided he or she has at least three years of discipline-free nursing experience.

A temporary license or permit may be granted to an out of state nurse in two instances. One is when the initial screening indicates the candidate’s eligible for a license. In this instance, the temporary permit can get the candidate working sooner. It is good for 60 days.

The other instance is when a nurse has not met the Board’s continuing competency requirements and needs to do a refresher course to be eligible for a regular license. This type of permit is good for 90 days.

An endorsement candidate must pay a $100 fee. There is an additional $10 charge for the temporary license.

South Dakota

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  South Dakota is a participating state.

List of participating states

RN by Endorsement

An out-of-state RN should request fingerprint cards from the Board by calling (605) 362-2760 or going online. The candidate will request transcripts and provide license verification from the original state of licensure. The candidate will also verify employment. If the candidate does not have 480 hours in the previous six years, or 140 in one year, the candidate will need to do a refresher course. The Board asks that endorsement candidates seeking re-entry contact them about approved courses.

A candidate who appears to meet requirements may be issued a temporary permit if the candidate submits a photocopy of a current license with the application and fees. The candidate will also need to submit fingerprint cards.

Tennessee

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses. 34 states have implemented the compact. Tennessee is a participating state.

List of participating states

RN by Endorsement

If an applicant completed a program in registered nursing and was licensed on the basis of having passed the approved nationwide examination, the candidate is a candidate for endorsement. The application packet is available online.

A nurse must list all positions the candidate has held during the prior five years. The candidate will also need a transcript, or copy of a diploma. Official license verification is required as well. Nurses will procure license verification through nursys.com or via paper form, depending on the state where they were first licensed.

Candidates must use an approved Tennessee vendor for fingerprint processing, though in some cases, they will be allowed to have inked fingerprint cards transferred to an electronic form.

The Board notes that license verification and criminal background checks must be in before a permit can be issued and that it won’t necessarily shorten the time frame.

There is a $115 fee for license by endorsement. The application must include a 2 1/2 by 2 1/2 photo – it should be professional quality. The application also includes an affidavit that must be notarized.

Texas

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Texas is a participating state.

List of participating states

Endorsement and International RNs

An RN may be endorsed into Texas if the candidate has already met the licensing requirements in another jurisdiction. This includes taking the appropriate licensing exam. The candidate will need to take the online jurisprudence exam before the candidate receives permanent licensing. A nurse who does not have recent experience will need to do additional work before the candidate can be licensed. This may take the form of a refresher course or extensive orientation. The candidate will need a special kind of temporary permit to complete requirements – this is not the same as licensure.

International nurses need credential evaluation as well as verification of licensure.

If the professional nursing program was in a language other than English, the nurse will need to provide English proficiency scores (TOEFL, IELTS, TSE, or PTE). If the candidate has not worked as a first-level general nurse for at least two of the four preceding years, the candidate will need to take a Foreign Educated Nurse refresher course. The candidate will first take the NCLEX.

Utah

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses. 34 states have implemented the compact. Utah is a participating state.

List of participating states

Endorsement and International RNs

An out-of-state nurse may apply by endorsement if the candidate has a current active license. The candidate will provide license verification. Transcripts will not be required.

A candidate who is declaring Utah as the state of primary residency must provide a Utah address to the Board within 30 days of the time the candidate arrives in the state.

International RNs seeking licensure by examination must pass the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) qualifying exam before they can take the NCLEX. They must also have a credential evaluation through CGFNS.

Virginia

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  Virginia is a participating state. 

List of participating states

Out of State and International Nurses

RNs who have current or past licensing in a U.S. state or territory are licensed by endorsement if a review indicates that they meet the qualifications. License verification is necessary. A majority of states handle the verification process online, but there is a paper form for those that require it.

Registered nurses who are licensed in Canada are eligible for endorsement if they did their nursing education in English and subsequently passed the Canadian Registered Nurses Examination. Other internationally educated applicants may be required to take the CGFNS exam before the NCLEX. Foreign nursing candidates are advised to call the Board. The same goes for Puerto Rican nurses who have not taken the NCLEX exam.

Registered nurses may wish to join the Virginia Nurses Association. This is a professional organization; membership is not required for licensure.

Another organization of interest is the Virginia Magnet Consortium; 16 of the 395 magnet health facilities are in Virginia.

West Virginia

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses.  34 states have implemented the compact.  West Virginia is a participating state.

List of participating states

Applying for RN Licensure

A criminal background check will be required before licensing. In-state candidates should schedule an appointment with the Board’s approved vendor, L-1 Identity Solutions. The scheduling can be done online.

Out-of-state candidates may have the prints done at a local law enforcement agency, as per instructions found in the application packet. The process may take longer. The RN Board will accept fingerprints done up to 12 months before the candidate’s graduation.

Forms are available on the site of the West Virginia RN Board (http://www.wvrnboard.com/default2.asp?active_page_id=57). The fee for license by examination is $51.50 (http://www.wvrnboard.com/). This is separate from the cost of the exam itself, which is $200 and payable to the testing company (http://www.pearsonvue.com/nclex/).

The application packet includes two certifications that must be filled out by others. The first one is to be signed by someone who has known the applicant for five or more years; it attests to good moral character. The second is to be given to the director or dean of the nursing program. It certifies that the applicant has graduated, or is expected to graduate; it also asks whether the candidate has been disciplined for academic dishonesty or is known to have committed misconduct.

A candidate who applies promptly can be issued a temporary permit, good for up to 90 days after graduation. If the candidate fails a first attempt at the NCLEX, the candidate will lose the privilege of working under a temporary permit. The candidate can test again. The candidate will need to reapply and pay additional fees. If the candidate fails two times, the RN Board will impose additional requirements before authorizing testing. The candidate will need a plan for remedying deficiencies. (The candidate will select one activity each from Category A and Category B which are listed in the application packet.)

Wisconsin

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses. 34 states have implemented the compact. Wisconsin is a participating state.

List of participating states

RN by Endorsement

The Wisconsin Board requires applicants to provide license verification from each state where they have held licensing. A copy of a current license may qualify the applicant for a temporary (90 day) permit provided other required materials are included with the application.

An RN who holds a current license in a U.S. jurisdiction or Canadian province, and who passed the NCLEX or SBTPE, may be endorsed into Wisconsin. If the nurse did not graduate from an approved school, the candidate must also demonstrate two years of recent practice. (An internationally educated candidate would be considered to have graduated from a non-approved school if the school was not accredited by an agency recognized by the Board.)

An RN who has not practiced nursing during the preceding five-year period will need to do a refresher course.

Internationally educated candidates should include a copy of their equivalency report even if they have since been licensed in the U.S. or Canada.

Wyoming

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses. 34 states have implemented the compact. Wyoming is a participating state.

List of participating states

Out-of State RNs

An out-of-state RN can be endorsed into Wyoming if the candidate meets requirements set by the Board.

There is a continuing competency requirement. It can be met in a number of ways. If, during the most recent five years, the RN passed the NCLEX, worked 1,600 hours, took a refresher course, or earned a specialty certification through an organization recognized by the Board, the candidate has met the requirement. The Board will also accept as evidence having worked 500 hours or earned 20 hours of continuing education in the prior two years.

The application form asks for a five-year work history. The candidate must submit a $135 application fee and $60 background check fee. If paying by credit card, an additional $5 charge will be assessed.)

A currently licensed out-of-state candidate may be authorized to work for up to 90 days under a temporary permit if the candidate includes, along with the application and fee, a copy of a license that is in good standing.

It is also possible to apply for a temporary permit without permanent licensure. A nurse can be granted this status only one time.

Does Not Meet

Alaska

Requirements for RNs Licensed in Other Jurisdictions

Out of state nurses should verify that they have done at least 320 hours of practice during the two years preceding application. Otherwise, they will need to do one of two things: demonstrate that they meet the Board’s continuing competency requirements through another pathway or take a refresher course. Any candidate who has not practiced for five years must take the refresher course. Learn more at the Board’s website: http://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/cbpl/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardofNursing.aspx

License verification should be provided electronically through the site of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

In most cases, foreign educated nurses will be required to have their education evaluated by the CGFNS Credentials Evaluation Service and make a separate demonstration of English language competency. They may opt for either the IELTS or the TOEFL. The review is not necessary for most Canadian nurses. The language requirement does not apply to nurses educated in Canadian providences (with the exception of Quebec).

California

Out of State RN Candidates

Both out-of-state and internationally licensed nurses are considered for California licensure. If a nurse is currently licensed and has already taken the required examination, the process is called endorsement. The candidate should provide verification from the state in which he originally passed the license exam in addition to the one where he is currently licensed.

The Board notes that Excelsior graduates are subject to the same requirements as other out-of-state applicants. Anyone who enrolled in a program from December 6, 2003 on has been required to have supervised clinical practice, obtained concurrently with nursing theory.

Out-of-state candidates are not required to use Live Scan for fingerprinting, but should be aware that if they opt for a fingerprint card in lieu of Live Scan, an additional fee will be assessed by the Board.

Application packets are available on the Board site. In most cases, endorsement candidates may apply online. A temporary license may be issued for an additional $50; this allows the nurse to work while materials are being processed. Criminal background information must be received before any license, including a temporary one, can be issued. If the background check has been completed beforehand, a candidate can hand-carry materials to the Board office to expedite the issuance of a temporary license https://www.rn.ca.gov/

The licensure process is, by law, expedited for any eligible candidate who is the spouse or domestic partner of a member of the military on active duty in California. Applicants should attach a copy of their marriage certificate, evidence of legal union, or certified declaration of domestic partnership. A copy of military orders should also be included.

International candidates should send their school a form titled “Breakdown of Educational Program for International Nursing Programs” in addition to the transcript request. If the transcript is not in English, it must be translated by a professional translator. The necessary forms are available in the endorsement packet, along with detailed instructions.

International candidates must take and pass the NCLEX. Canadian candidates who took a pre-1980 licensing exam may be exempted. The Board notes that the Canadian Comprehensive Examination does not substitute for the NCLEX-RN.

Out-of-state nurses are eligible to work under a temporary license. International candidates from non-English speaking nations must present TOEFL scores if they wish to work under an interim permit while waiting to take the NCLEX-RN examination.

Connecticut

Out of State and International RNs

In most cases, registered nurses who are licensed in other U.S. jurisdictions are eligible for license by endorsement and can be granted a temporary permit while going through the endorsement process. If, however, the license was not granted on the basis of passing the national exam, the candidate will need to apply by examination.

The candidate must request license verification from every U.S. jurisdiction or Canadian province where the candidate has been licensed. In many cases, this is a simple online process. Some jurisdictions, though, require submission of a paper form. Fees are variable.

Assuming the candidate turns in a complete application and appears license-worthy, a temporary permit can be issued in three weeks (15 business days).

Canadian registered nurses may be endorsed into Canada based on scores on the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination. The minimum standard is a 400 on each section. If the nurse took the exam in French, the candidate will need to demonstrate English proficiency by passing the TOEFL. The standard is 213 on the computerized version or 550 on the paper version.

An internationally educated RN (or first level nurse) should have the credentials evaluated by CGFNS. The Connecticut Board will need the evaluation to determine NCLEX eligibility.

Hawaii

Out of State and International RNs

Graduates of accredited nursing programs in other jurisdictions may be eligible for licensure by endorsement. They will need to provide license verification either through an official document (with seal) or online at nursys.com. Candidates who have already taken an acceptable licensing exam (NCLEX or SBTPE) will not be required to do so again. International candidates must have equivalency evaluated though the CGFNP. They are responsible for taking the NCLEX. Canadian nurses who took the SBTPE may be exempted from the NCLEX requirement.

Illinois

Out-of-State and International RNs Seeking RN Licensure in Illinois

Out-of-state endorsement candidates need license verification from their state(s) of licensure. This includes the current state, the original state if different, and any other state in which the nurse has practiced within the most recent five years. NCLEX-RN results may be provided by the state of original licensure or by the testing company itself. Endorsement candidates may be issued a temporary license so that they can begin work before all paperwork is processed. The standard endorsement application fee is $50; an applicant pays $75 if requesting a temporary license.

Graduates of programs that did not provide clinical practice concurrent or coordinated with nursing theory (i.e. correspondence courses) are eligible only if one of the following conditions is met: The candidate has actively practiced nursing for at least two full years while licensed in another jurisdiction or has since completed a graduate program that did include concurrent practice. The Illinois Board has specific requirements for coordinated practice as it applies to nursing education. There is an employment verification form in the application packet to be used by nurses who have practiced for two years following a nursing school experience that the Board deems “unapproved”.

Foreign nurses are eligible for Illinois licensing so long as they are licensed in the country where they did their education and meet all other requirements. They must have a credential report from one of two approved agencies. Credentials or license documentation that are not in English must be sent with a certified translation.

If a candidate’s first language was not English, the candidate must take the TOEFL or IELTS Academic Module. The Board may waive this requirement for a nurse who completed an English nursing program or took a licensing exam in English; this is done at the recommendation of the evaluation service. Details can be found in a supplement on the division website. Candidates should make sure information is current. They may email questions to the Board.

Massachusetts

Endorsement Candidates

A nurse who has been licensed, or is currently licensed, in another state may apply for licensure by endorsement. License verification is required; in some cases, this may be done online. Licensure by endorsement costs $275.

Michigan

Out of State RNs

A registered nurse can be granted a provisional license after the Board receives verification of a license in good standing in another state. (The candidate may need to submit additional materials before a permanent license can be issued.) The cost of the application is $54 (or $64 if a provisional license is required).

In some cases an internationally educated nurse will need to submit an educational evaluation even if the candidate holds licensing in another state of the U.S. – this will be the case with nurses who have held their state licensing for less than five years.

International RNs should either hold certification through CGFNS or have a course by course report. Verification should be sent directly by the issuing agency.

Applicants who received their nursing education in Canada may be exempt from the CGFNS requirement. They should have their transcript and a copy of their Canadian license sent to the Board. If the program was not located in Canada or taught in a language other than English, they will need to go through CGFNS (as per application instructions).

Canadian RNs are eligible to work under a temporary license while they are in the process of meeting the NCLEX requirement. It’s good for up to a year, but will be invalidated in the event the candidate fails a first attempt.

Minnesota

Out of State RNs

An endorsement candidate must provide license verification from the state where the candidate is currently employed (or the one where the candidate was employed most recently). The candidate must also provide verification from the state where the candidate was first licensed. The nurse should provide transcripts or evidence of degree completion unless this information is provided by the licensing agency as part of license verification.

A nurse who does not provide evidence of recent licensing and employment may be asked to do additional education.

Nevada

Out of State and International RNs

An RN who has passed the NCLEX or state pool exam in another jurisdiction may be eligible for a reciprocal license. The nurse must have license verification sent from the state where the candidate was originally licensed. The fee for license by endorsement is $105. An endorsement candidate may work under a temporary permit while waiting for the results of the background check. The Board cautions that processing can take a long time, and that fingerprinting should be done early. A candidate who requests an application from the Board will receive a fingerprint card that the candidate can take to a fingerprinting agency in the current state. There is a $51.25 fee for processing fingerprints.

An internationally educated nurse will need to go through the CGFNS evaluation process before the candidate can be authorized to take the NCLEX (http://nevadanursingboard.org/) In many cases, internationally educated nurses will also need to demonstrate English proficiency. The Board accepts either the TOEFL or the Pearson Test of English Academic. Neither will be required of a candidate who received nursing education in an English-speaking country like Barbados, Ghana, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand, South Africa, Tobago, Trinidad, or the United Kingdom. Most of Canada is also exempted. A candidate who has not already had the required evaluations will accrue additional fees.

New Jersey

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) increases access to care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses. 34 states have implemented the compact. New Jersey is a participating state.

List of participating states

RN by Endorsement

RNs who are licensed in other states can apply by endorsement. They should fill out the correct application, have their fingerprints done, and provide license verification. RN/LPN Licensure by Endorsement application

Endorsement candidates who hold SANE certification in another jurisdiction must submit multiple documents if they wish to have the certification added to their New Jersey license. Among the requirements are certifications of coursework and clinical work and a copy of the current state’s statutes and rules. There is one New Jersey specific course that endorsement applicants must have.

In order to receive the SANE certification, the candidate must have worked two years full-time as a registered nurse.

New York

Out of State RNs

Out of state RNs are subject to similar requirements, but do not need to take the licensing exam if they have already passed an acceptable one. The State Pool Exam (which was given before the NCLEX) is license qualifying.

In addition to the standard nursing coursework, a New York RN needs education or training in child abuse and in infection control. A nurse who does the education in New York can expect to have this included in the program, but an out of state nurse will generally need to do additional training. There are some distance learning providers among the approved providers.

Ohio

RN by Endorsement

A candidate who is licensed in another state should fill out the endorsement application. The candidate should check the continuing education section of the Board site to find a two-hour internet course in applicable laws and rules.

A background check will be required. If the candidate is currently living outside Ohio, the candidate may request fingerprint cards. The nurse should have official license verification sent to the Ohio Board. If the state of licensure participates in the Nursys.com license verification system, this may be a quick process. Once license and education have been verified, the candidate may be issued a temporary permit.

Oregon

Out of State RNs

Out of state candidates may apply by examination or endorsement, depending on what stage they are in their career. The endorsement application is online. In many instances, license verification can be handled online as well. The candidate will need verification from the first state of licensure as well as the most recent one.

An RN applying by endorsement pays $195 plus an additional $52 for fingerprint processing.

Nurses who have been out of the field a while should be prepared to do a re-entry course.

Pennsylvania

Out-of-State and International RNs

Out-of-state RNs may be licensed without examination if they have already passed an acceptable one. (If not, they will apply for license by endorsement with exam.)

An internationally educated RN who has not yet taken the NCLEX and been licensed in another US jurisdiction should apply first for CGNFS certification. After the RN is certified, they may apply to the Pennsylvania Board, using the Application for Licensure by Endorsement with Exam for Internationally Educated Registered Nurses form. The RN will also register with Pearson at this time.

Even if the candidate has since been licensed on the basis of exam in another state, the RN should provide educational evaluation. If the RN wants to begin work under a TPP (temporary permit), the RN should provide English proficiency scores as well.

Rhode Island

Out of State RNs

A nurse who took the licensing exam in another jurisdiction may be licensed by endorsement. The candidate will need to provide official license verification.

An internationally educated RN may be eligible for license by examination if the candidate has credentials evaluated by an approved evaluation service and they are found to be at the appropriate level.

Even if the internationally educated nurse has since applied for, and been licensed by, a U.S. state, the candidate will need to provide evidence of credential evaluation and successful performance on an English language proficiency exam.

Vermont

RN by Endorsement

Endorsement is a quick process if the out-of-state nurse has relatively recent experience. Vermont has a practice requirement: 50 days, or 400 hours, in two years or 120 days, or 960 hours, in the prior five. If a candidate does not meet practice requirements, the candidate will need to complete a re-entry program that includes at least 120 hours each of nursing theory and clinical practice. The Board asks that candidates check with them before beginning re-entry programs. The nurse must be supervised by an RN when working with patients. There is a form on the Board site that includes a skills checklist to be submitted to the Board at the conclusion of the program.

Vermont requires endorsement candidates to provide verification from both the most recent state of licensure and the state where the exam was first passed. In many cases, this can be done online through Nursys.com. If the state does not participate in the NURSYS database, a paper form will be required. This may take some time. In this case, a temporary permit can get the endorsement nurse working sooner.

Vermont accepts walk-in endorsement applicants on weekdays between 8:00 and 4:00. If everything is in order, the license or permit can be issued that same day. Otherwise, it may take 7 – 10 days from the time the candidate applies.

Washington

Out of State RN Candidates

Washington is currently using a state database to check the criminal history of in-state candidates, but requiring a fingerprint-based check of candidates from out of state. This is the case whether the candidate is applying by examination or endorsement. The applicant will need a DOH fingerprint card; the candidate will receive a packet once the candidate submits the application.

An RN with a current, active license can apply by endorsement. The candidate will also need to provide verification from the first state where the candidate was licensed. If the license verification does not include verification of nursing education, the candidate will request that the school sends transcripts to the nursing commission office.

A candidate may be issued a temporary permit that will allow them to work while the criminal background check is being processed.

A nurse who does not have an active license may be authorized to do clinical training as part of a refresher course.