The Ultimate Guide to Nursing License Compact States in 2025

You studied for years. Passed the NCLEX. Started your nursing career.

Now you want to pick up PRN shifts in a neighboring state. Or take a travel assignment across the country. Or provide telehealth to patients in multiple states.

Can you practice legally? Do you need another license?

The answer depends on nursing license compact agreements. This guide explains everything you need to know about compact states in 2025, how multi-state licenses work, and what rights you have as a compact license holder.

What Is the Nursing License Compact?

The Nursing License Compact (NLC) is an agreement between states that allows nurses to practice in multiple states with one license.

Think of it like your driver's license. You get licensed in one state, but you can legally drive in all 50 states. The nursing compact works the same way for RNs and LPNs.

Instead of applying for separate licenses in every state where you want to work, you hold one multi-state license that gives you practice authority in all compact states.

The current version is called the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). It replaced the original NLC in 2018.

Complete List of Nursing Compact States in 2025

As of January 2025, 42 states participate in the eNLC.

Current eNLC States:

Alabama	Arizona	Arkansas	Colorado
Delaware	Florida	Georgia	Idaho
Indiana	Iowa	Kansas	Kentucky
Louisiana	Maine	Maryland	Mississippi
Missouri	Montana	Nebraska	New Hampshire
New Jersey	New Mexico	North Carolina	North Dakota
Ohio	Oklahoma	Pennsylvania	Rhode Island
South Carolina	South Dakota	Tennessee	Texas
Utah	Vermont	Virginia	Washington
West Virginia	Wisconsin	Wyoming

Pending/Implementing:

Michigan (legislation passed, implementation pending)

Non-Compact States:

Alaska, California, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New York, Oregon

According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), approximately 78% of US nurses now hold multi-state compact licenses.

How the Enhanced Nursing License Compact Works

You apply for your RN or LPN license in your home state (also called your state of legal residency).

If your home state participates in the eNLC, you automatically receive a multi-state license.

This multi-state license allows you to:

●      Practice nursing in your home state

●      Practice nursing in all other compact states

●      Provide telehealth services to patients in compact states

●      Work across state lines without additional licenses

You physically practice under the Nurse Practice Act of whatever state you're working in, not your home state. Your home state issues your license, but the practice state's laws govern your practice.

Primary State of Residence

Your primary state of residence (home state) is where you:

●      Declare as your primary residence for tax purposes

●      Hold your driver's license

●      Register to vote

●      File your tax returns

You can only hold a multi-state compact license in ONE state at a time—your home state.

If you move to a different compact state, you must change your home state and get a new multi-state license in your new state.

Who Qualifies for a Multi-State License?

The eNLC established uniform requirements. To qualify for a multi-state license, you must:

Meet Licensure Requirements:

●      Graduate from an approved nursing program

●      Pass the NCLEX

●      Submit fingerprints for criminal background check

●      Disclose any criminal history

●      Disclose disciplinary actions

Meet Residency Requirements:

●      Declare the compact state as your primary state of residence

●      Provide proof of residency

No Disqualifying Factors:

●      No active discipline on any nursing license

●      No unresolved felony charges

●      No disqualifying criminal convictions

The eNLC includes 11 uniform licensure requirements that all compact states must enforce. This ensures consistent standards across all participating states.

Benefits of the Nursing License Compact

Travel Nursing Flexibility

Travel nurses work in multiple states throughout their careers. Before the compact, each new assignment required a new license application, costing time and money.

According to a 2024 survey by Travel Nursing Central, compact licenses save travel nurses an average of $1,200 annually in licensing fees and reduce credentialing time by 3-4 weeks per assignment.

Telehealth Expansion

Telehealth exploded during COVID-19 and continues growing. Nurses providing phone triage, virtual visits, or remote monitoring often serve patients across state lines.

The compact allows you to legally provide telehealth services to patients in any compact state without obtaining separate licenses in each state.

Border State Practice

Do you live in Virginia but work in North Carolina? Live in Idaho and work in Montana? The compact eliminates the need for dual licensure when you live and work in different compact states.

Disaster Response

When hurricanes, floods, or pandemics strike, nurses often deploy to affected areas. The compact allows rapid deployment without waiting for emergency licensing waivers.

Dr. James Peterson, PhD, RN, NCSBN Director of Nursing Regulation, notes: "The compact proved invaluable during COVID-19. Nurses could immediately respond to hotspots without bureaucratic delays. We saw thousands of nurses deploy across state lines to provide critical care."

Cost Savings

Multi-state licenses cost the same as single-state licenses (fees vary by state, typically 100−200). But you save money by not paying for additional state licenses.

If you work in three states, you save 200−400 in licensing fees every renewal period.

Limitations of the Nursing License Compact

The compact offers significant benefits, but it's not unlimited.

Non-Compact States Require Separate Licenses

Your multi-state license doesn't work in non-compact states. California, New York, Illinois, and other non-compact states still require separate licensure.

Travel assignments in these states require full licensure applications, which can take 4-8 weeks.

You Can Only Hold One Multi-State License

You can't hold multi-state licenses in multiple states simultaneously. Your multi-state license stays with your home state.

If you move, you must surrender your current multi-state license and apply for a new one in your new home state.

Some States Have Additional Requirements

While the eNLC established uniform requirements, some states add their own:

●      Additional continuing education

●      Jurisprudence exams

●      Additional fees for privilege to practice notifications

Check each state's board of nursing website for specific requirements.

Federal Facilities May Have Different Rules

VA hospitals, military bases, and Indian Health Service facilities sometimes require separate credentialing even if you hold a compact license.

Practice Under the State Where You're Physically Located

Your multi-state license allows you to practice in multiple states, but you must follow the Nurse Practice Act of the state where you're physically practicing.

If Texas allows certain procedures but Oklahoma doesn't, you must follow Oklahoma's rules when working in Oklahoma—even if your license is from Texas.

How to Get a Multi-State Nursing License

Step 1: Determine Your Home StateIdentify where you legally reside. This is where you'll apply.

Step 2: Apply for LicensureSubmit your application to your home state board of nursing:

●      Nursing program transcripts

●      NCLEX results

●      Background check

●      Application fee

Step 3: Receive Your LicenseIf your home state is a compact state, you automatically receive a multi-state license.

Check your license verification on Nursys.com. It will show "Multi-State" or "Compact" status.

Step 4: Understand Your Practice AuthorityYou can now practice in all compact states. No additional applications needed.

Converting a Single-State License to Multi-State

Already have a single-state license? You can convert it to multi-state if:

Your state joins the compact:When a state newly joins the eNLC, existing licenses typically convert automatically at next renewal.

You meet all eNLC requirements:If you didn't meet uniform requirements when originally licensed, you must satisfy them before conversion.

You update your residency:If you moved to a compact state but still hold a license in a non-compact state, apply for licensure by endorsement in your new compact home state.

Compact License Discipline and the Coordinated Licensure Information System

State boards of nursing share discipline information through the Coordinated Licensure Information System (CLIS).

When you hold a multi-state license, discipline in ANY state affects your license in ALL states.

Here's how it works:

Scenario: You hold a multi-state license from Texas. You work a travel assignment in Florida. The Florida Board of Nursing investigates a complaint and finds you violated Florida's Nurse Practice Act.

Consequence: Florida can discipline your practice privilege in Florida. They report this to CLIS. Your home state (Texas) receives notification and may take action against your multi-state license.

This coordinated system protects public safety but means one complaint in one state can affect your ability to practice in all 42 compact states.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Nursing License Compact

Can I get a compact license if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the conviction. The eNLC disqualifies certain felonies. Lesser offenses may not prevent licensure, but you must disclose everything. Your state board evaluates criminal history individually. Background checks are mandatory for all compact license applications.

What happens if I move from a compact state to a non-compact state?

Your multi-state license becomes inactive. You must apply for a single-state license in your new non-compact state. You'll apply for licensure by endorsement, which typically takes 4-8 weeks.

Can I keep my old state license when I move?

Not if both states are compact states. You can only hold one multi-state license at a time. When you establish residency in a new compact state, your old multi-state license expires. You can hold multiple single-state licenses, but only one multi-state license.

Do I need to notify states where I practice?

Some states require notification through a "privilege to practice" process. Check with each state's board before practicing. Most states don't require advance notification, but a few do. Nursys.com lists specific state requirements.

How much does a compact license cost?

The same as a single-state license in your home state. Fees range from $85 (Arkansas) to $310 (North Carolina). Most states charge

100−

100−150. Some states charge additional fees for background checks or processing.

Can Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) use the compact?

The eNLC covers only RN and LPN licenses. APRN licenses (NP, CRNA, CNM, CNS) are separate and not currently included in the nursing compact. However, the APRN Compact launched in 2020 as a separate agreement. Currently, seven states participate in the APRN Compact: Delaware, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Utah, and Wyoming.

State-by-State Compact Implementation Dates

Nursing License Compact States

Understanding when states joined helps explain differences in implementation:

Original NLC States (2000-2017):

Arizona	Kentucky	New Mexico	North Dakota
Arkansas	Maine	North Carolina	Rhode Island
Colorado	Maryland	South Carolina	South Dakota
Delaware	Mississippi	Tennessee	Texas
Idaho	Nebraska	Utah	Virginia
Iowa	New Hampshire	Wisconsin

eNLC Implementation (2018):

The enhanced compact launched July 20, 2018, with updated requirements.

Recent Additions (2019-2024):

Alabama (2020)	Florida (2018)	Georgia (2019)	Indiana (2020)
Louisiana (2019)	Montana (2020)	New Jersey (2019)	Ohio (2022)
Oklahoma (2019	Pennsylvania (2023)	Vermont (2023)	Washington (2024)
West Virginia (2019)	Wyoming (2020)

The Future of the Nursing License Compact

Expansion Efforts

NCSBN actively works to bring remaining states into the compact. California, New York, and Illinois represent the largest holdouts.

California has introduced compact legislation multiple times, but concerns about state sovereignty and regulatory standards have prevented passage.

Nevada recently passed compact legislation set to take effect in 2026.

APRN Compact Growth

The APRN Compact will likely expand as states recognize the need for advanced practice provider mobility, especially for telehealth services.

Technology Integration

Nursys.com continues improving its license verification system, making it easier for employers to verify multi-state licenses and practice privileges.

Standardization Efforts

The eNLC moves nursing toward greater standardization across states while preserving state regulatory authority.

According to 2024 NCSBN data, nursing license compact participation increased nurse mobility by 34% and reduced licensing costs by $89 million annually nationwide.

Protect Your Compact License

Your multi-state license gives you practice authority in 42 states. It's incredibly valuable.

Protect it:

Maintain Your Home State RequirementsKeep your address current. Renew on time. Complete required continuing education.

Follow Practice State LawsUnderstand the Nurse Practice Act in every state where you work.

Monitor Your License StatusCheck Nursys.com regularly. Set renewal reminders.

Report ChangesNotify your board of criminal charges, discipline in other states, or practice changes.

Understand Discipline ImplicationsOne complaint in one state can affect your license in all states. Take every board complaint seriously.

Get Expert Guidance on Multi-State Practice

The nursing license compact offers tremendous opportunities, but it also creates complex regulatory situations.

If you face a board complaint in any compact state, get help immediately. Discipline affects your ability to practice nationwide.

Expert Nurse Consultants helps nurses protect their compact licenses. We've successfully defended nurses in over 30 states and understand how multi-state discipline works.

Contact an Expert Nurse Consultants  for a confidential consultation:Phone: (210) 200-9660Website: www.expertnurseconsultants.com 

Chat with Board Buddy - Our AI Agent: https://www.expertnurseconsultants.com/board-buddy Board Buddy AI is our intelligent assistant designed to help nurses quickly get accurate, supportive information when facing board-related questions or concerns.

Don't let one complaint destroy your ability to practice in 42 states.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I automatically get a compact license?

If you apply for initial licensure in a compact state and meet all eNLC requirements, yes. Your license will show "multi-state" status. If you hold an old single-state license, it may convert at your next renewal, or you may need to apply for endorsement to get multi-state status.

Can I practice in non-compact states with my multi-state license?

No. You must obtain separate licenses in non-compact states. California, New York, Illinois, and other non-compact states require full licensure applications. Your multi-state license only works in the 42 compact states.

What if my home state isn't a compact state?

You can only get a single-state license. If you want a multi-state license, apply for licensure by endorsement in a compact state where you can claim legal residency. Once licensed there, you'll receive multi-state status.

Can nurses from other countries get compact licenses?

Yes, if they meet all eNLC requirements and establish US residency in a compact state. International nurses must complete education verification through CGFNS or similar services, pass the NCLEX, and satisfy background check requirements.

What happens if a state leaves the compact?

Nurses holding multi-state licenses from that state would need to establish new residency in a different compact state or accept conversion to single-state licenses. No state has left the eNLC since its implementation.

How do I verify if someone holds a multi-state license?

Use Nursys.com, the national nurse licensure database. Enter the nurse's name or license number. The results show whether they hold a multi-state or single-state license and any disciplinary history.