Nurse License Reciprocity: All 43 Compact States + Transfer Guide

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) allows nurses to practice in multiple states with one license. Understanding the compact is essential for travel nursing—it can save thousands in licensing fees and weeks in application time.

What Is the Nurse Licensure Compact?

The NLC is an agreement between states allowing nurses with a multistate license to practice in any member state without obtaining additional licenses.

How It Works

1. You get a multistate license in your “home state” (state of legal residence)
2. This license allows you to practice in all compact states
3. When you work in another compact state, you follow that state’s practice laws
4. If you move permanently, you apply for a new home state license

Compact States in 2026

Current NLC Member States (43)

Full Implementation:

Pending Implementation

States that have passed compact legislation but aren’t yet fully implemented:

• Check NCSBN.org for current status
• Implementation dates vary

Non-Compact States (7)

These states require separate licensure:

• California
• Massachusetts
• New York
• Oregon
• Washington
• Hawaii
• Alaska

Note: Washington has pending legislation. Status may change.

Getting a Compact License

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a multistate license:

1. Residency: Must declare a compact state as your primary state of residence
2. SSN: Must have a Social Security number
3. Background: Pass federal/state criminal background check
4. Education: Graduate from approved nursing program
5. Exam: Pass NCLEX
6. No restrictions: License must be unencumbered

Proving Residency

You’ll need to prove you live in a compact state. Evidence includes:

• Driver’s license
• Voter registration
• State tax returns
• Federal tax return (address)
• Utility bills
• Lease/mortgage documents

Application Process

1. Apply in your home state (where you legally reside)
2. Complete background check
3. Pay application fee ($50-300 depending on state)
4. Receive multistate license (indicated on license)
5. Can immediately practice in all compact states

Travel Nursing and the Compact

With Compact License

Advantages:

• Take assignments in any compact state immediately
• No additional license fees
• No waiting for license processing
• More flexible assignment options

Process for new assignment:

1. Accept assignment in compact state
2. Verify compact status (it’s immediate)
3. Complete facility credentialing
4. Start working

Non-Compact State Assignments

For California, New York, Massachusetts, etc.:

1. Apply for that state’s license (4-12 weeks typically)
2. Pay application fee ($100-300)
3. May need additional documentation
4. Must wait for license before starting

Strategic Licensing

Many travel nurses maintain:

• Compact license (covers 43 states)
• California license (highest-paying state)
• New York license (high demand market)
• Other non-compact licenses as needed

Cost Analysis

Single-State vs. Compact Strategy

Working in 5 states (old way):

• 5 licenses × $150 average = $750
• Plus renewal costs every 2 years
• Time: 20+ weeks total processing

With compact license:

• 1 license = $200
• Covers 43 states immediately
• Time: 2-4 weeks

Annual savings: $300-500+ in licensing fees

When to Get Non-Compact Licenses

California:

• Highest-paying state
• 3-4 month processing (plan ahead)
• Worth it for most travelers

New York:

• Large market, good pay
• Faster processing than CA
• Valuable addition

Massachusetts:

• Strong market
• Moderate processing time
• Good for Northeast travelers

Changing Your Home State

When You Move

If you relocate to a different state:

Moving within compact:

1. Apply for new license in new home state
2. Declare new state as primary residence
3. Previous multistate privilege ends when new license issues
4. New multistate license covers same 43 states

Moving from compact to non-compact:

1. Apply for single-state license
2. Lose multistate privilege
3. Must apply separately for other states

Moving from non-compact to compact:

1. Apply for multistate license
2. Gain access to all compact states
3. May be strategic move for travelers

Common Questions

Can I have licenses in multiple states?

Compact states: No, only one multistate license in your home state Non-compact states: Yes, you can hold single-state licenses alongside your compact license

What if I work in a compact state but live in a non-compact state?

You cannot get a multistate license. You must apply for single-state licenses in each state where you want to work.

Do I need to notify anyone when working in another compact state?

Generally no. Your multistate license is valid immediately. However, some states require notification—check specific state requirements.

What happens if I get in trouble in another state?

The state where the incident occurred has jurisdiction. Actions there may affect your home state license as well.

License Lookup Tools

• Nursys: National database of nurse licenses (nursys.com)
• State Boards: Each state’s board of nursing website
• NCSBN: Compact administration (ncsbn.org/nlc)

Key Takeaways

• 43 states participate in the NLC (2026)
• One multistate license covers all compact states
• Must establish legal residence in a compact state
• California, New York, Massachusetts, and Washington are key non-compact states
• Strategic licensing saves thousands in fees
• Plan ahead for non-compact state licenses (4-12 weeks)
• The compact makes travel nursing significantly easier