Licensing guide

Travel Nurse Licensing Requirements by State 2026: Complete Guide

Each state has different licensing requirements, costs, and processing times. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about travel nurse licensing in 2026, including the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) and individual state licenses.

Understanding the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)

The NLC allows nurses to practice in multiple states with a single multistate license. As of 2026, 41 states participate in the NLC, making it easier for travel nurses to work across state lines.

NLC States (2026)

If you hold a compact license from one of these states, you can practice in any other NLC state without 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 Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

Non-Compact States (Require Individual Licenses)

These states do not participate in the NLC and require individual licenses:

• Alaska: $200, 4-6 weeks processing
• California: $350, 8-12 weeks processing (longest wait time)
• Connecticut: $180, 4-6 weeks
• Hawaii: $200, 6-8 weeks
• Illinois: $91, 2-4 weeks
• Massachusetts: $275, 4-6 weeks
• Michigan: $208, 4-6 weeks
• Minnesota: $105, 2-4 weeks
• Nevada: $100, 4-6 weeks
• New York: $143, 6-8 weeks
• Oregon: $195, 4-6 weeks
• Pennsylvania: $95, 2-4 weeks
• Rhode Island: $135, 4-6 weeks
• Washington: $120, 4-6 weeks

Licensing Costs by State (2026)

Licensing costs vary significantly by state. Here's what to expect:

Most Expensive States

1. California: $350
2. Massachusetts: $275
3. Alaska: $200
4. Hawaii: $200
5. Oregon: $195

Most Affordable States

1. Illinois: $91
2. Pennsylvania: $95
3. Nevada: $100
4. Minnesota: $105
5. Washington: $120

Pro Tip: Many agencies will reimburse licensing fees if you complete a certain number of assignments. Always negotiate this into your contract.

Processing Times by State (2026)

Processing times can make or break your assignment start date. Plan accordingly:

Fastest Processing (2-4 weeks)

• Illinois, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Texas

Average Processing (4-6 weeks)

• Most NLC states, Alaska, Connecticut, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington

Slowest Processing (6-12 weeks)

• California: 8-12 weeks (longest)
• New York: 6-8 weeks
• Hawaii: 6-8 weeks

Required Documents for State Licensure

Most states require similar documentation, but check each state's board of nursing website for specifics:

• ✅ Completed application form
• ✅ Proof of graduation from accredited nursing program
• ✅ NCLEX-RN results
• ✅ Background check/fingerprints
• ✅ Verification of license from original state (if applicable)
• ✅ Continuing education credits (some states)
• ✅ Application fee

Compact License vs. Individual License: Which Should You Get?

Get a Compact License If:

• Your permanent residence is in an NLC state
• You plan to work in multiple NLC states
• You want to save money on licensing fees
• You need flexibility to accept last-minute assignments

Get Individual Licenses If:

• You're targeting non-compact states (CA, NY, MA, etc.)
• You have a long-term assignment in one state
• Your home state is not in the NLC

Licensing Cost Negotiation Tips

Don't pay licensing fees out of pocket. Here's how to get them covered:

1. Ask for reimbursement: Many agencies will reimburse licensing fees
2. Negotiate upfront: Include licensing reimbursement in your contract
3. Require completion bonus: Some agencies pay licensing fees as part of completion bonuses
4. Compare agencies: Some agencies offer better licensing support than others

State-Specific Licensing Resources

• Complete State Licensing Directory
• Compact vs. Individual License Guide
• NCSBN Nurse Licensure Compact

Final Takeaway

Licensing is one of the biggest hassles for travel nurses, but understanding the requirements can save you time and money:

1. If possible, establish your permanent residence in an NLC state
2. Start the licensing process 2-3 months before your target assignment
3. Negotiate licensing fee reimbursement into your contract
4. Keep all licensing documents organized and easily accessible
5. Track renewal dates to avoid lapses