a map of the united states where travel nurses can apply for compact licenses

What Is a Compact Nursing License and How to Apply for it

Jan 26, 2023

Becoming a healthcare traveler can be a fast-paced career— but it can also be littered with paperwork to keep track of. As if being a healthcare worker wasn’t a challenging enough job, travelers can often be held back by bureaucratic red tape surrounding the routes from state to state.  

Compact Nursing Licenses have changed the game of travel nursing by expediting processes and ensuring the flexibility that intrigues many looking to get into the profession. Below we'll talk about compact nursing licenses, what they entail, and how they can help you advance your traveling career.  

What is a compact nursing license? 

The Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) is an agreement between states allowing nurses to have one license, allowing them to practice in any other states that are part of the agreement. 

The NLC was initially developed in 2000 and has grown to include 37 states as of April 2022. To further streamline the process, the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC) was implemented in 2018, enhancing standards. For example, eNLC requires applicants to undergo a federal fingerprint-based criminal background check, whereas its predecessor did not. 

Which states are part of the eNLC (as of 2023)

So far, 39 states and have passed legislation and joined the eNLC. In 2022, Guam had a partial implementation, meaning that nurses with active multi-state NLC licenses could practice there. Ohio entered the compact agreement last year and was officially implemented on January 4, 2023. The U.S. Virgin Islands has also entered the compact, but no start date has been given as of the date of this publication. Although Hawaii is one of the most desirable states for travelers, the state is not part of the eNLC and has no pending legislation.  

current 2023 NLC state map
2023 NLC map | ncsbn.org

States with pending legislation status for 2023 inclusion are: 

  • Alaska 
  • Illinois 
  • Massachusetts 
  • Minnesota 
  • Michigan 
  • New York 
  • Rhode Island 
  • Washington 

Why are compact licenses essential? 

Simply put, travelers need to be allowed (licensed) to work in the states they go to. Having a multi-state license means travelers can practice everywhere in the eNLC without doing as much paperwork or keeping track of multiple state licenses, which is highly effective and preferred for travelers who don’t want downtime between assignments. Having one also reduces the costs of application fees and renewals.  

How to apply for a compact nursing license 

There’s a lot to learn regarding the eNLC, so the National Council of State Boards of Nursing put together a list of frequently asked questions and provides updates as they arise.  

Step one: Meet the requirements for a multistate license. 

Step two: Go to your state board of nursing website to upgrade your license (provided instructions are found in the “eNLC Upgrade Application” or “Apply for a multistate license” options.) Once the application is reviewed and accepted (typically takes three to seven business days), the eNLC license will arrive in the mail. 

We realize that we’re making a complex process look simple. However, we’re presenting it this way to assure those overwhelmed that it is attainable if you break it down into bite-sized tasks.  

So, what did we skip? Here are some crumbs from step one: 

  • Receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). 
  • Live in a compact state (or claim it as your primary state of residence via your driver’s license, state ID, voter registration, or federal tax return). 
  • Pass an English efficiency/ TOEFL exam if English is not your native language. 
  • Have a valid US Social Security Number 
  • Pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN exam.  
  • Be eligible for or hold an active nursing license (with no disciplinary actions). 
  • Submit a state and federal fingerprint-based background check and are:
  1. not convicted or found guilty of a felony 
  2. have no misdemeanors or convictions related to nursing 

The official eNLC body also recommends the Nursys e-Notify system, which provides real-time updates and changes that can be especially useful for travelers.  

How GetMed can help 

A common mistake among newer travelers is needing to fully understand and provide certifications and licensure. This is where our recruiters and compliance teams can be your life savers. The GetMed team is here to advocate for career advancement, so if you need information— never hesitate to ask.  

Ready to get started on your next adventure? Contact us today