Yes, registered nurses can work in any state if they’re licensed appropriately and meet the requirements and rules of that state.
Licensing and work permissions vary depending on the situation and work involved.
For instance, registered nurses with a nurse licensure compact agreement have different rules than nurses with a single state license.
Moreover, the rules for travel nurses vary depending on where they live and where their work assignments location.
This article discusses the rules registered nurses working in various states depending on state laws and licensing.
It includes single state licenses, relocation, nurse licensure compact agreements, and travel nursing.
Single-State License and Relocation
Registered nurses working with a single state license can only work in the individual state they’re licensed.
As a result, if they want to relocate to another state, they must acquire a license for that particular state.
With that said, it’s important to point out that registered nurses do not need to retake the NCLEX-RN exam.
The NCLEX-RN is a nationally recognized exam and nurses only need to take it once.
However, registered nurses must maintain their licenses to continue practicing.
For a registered nurse to obtain licensure in another state, they must apply for a “licensure by endorsement” in that state.
It generally requires a background check and a nursing history check.
Registered nurses must also complete extra requirements to receive licensure in state requiring other provisions.
Finally, registered nurses must pay any fees for obtaining a license in that state.
Nurse Licensure Compact Agreements
Numerous states participate in nurse licensure compact agreements.
A nurse licensure compact agreement (NLC)” allows registered nurses who live and work in a compact state to operate in other compact states without obtaining new licensure for the other state.
As a result, nurses can operate across state lines without applying for additional applications or paying fees.
However, registered nurses must maintain living quarters in their primary licensed state.
States have different laws for residents, and various tax structures affect permanent residents in a particular state.
As a result, those who work in multiple states must abide by their primary state’s laws and tax rules.
They must also fill out separate forms for taxes in states they worked in.
If the registered nurse permanently relocates to another state, they will have to obtain a license for that particular state.
It includes permanent relocation to other NLC and non-NLC states.
As a result, they must follow the exact requirements single-state licensed registered nurses must follow.
Fortunately, the process of becoming licensed in another state isn’t complicated.
For information regarding state licensing practices and fees, search the local state board of nursing in your state.
Also, consider researching the state you want to work in to determine their rules, laws, and regulations.
For travel nurses working with a travel nurse agency, you’ll want to consult the agency regarding rules and licensing for particular states.
What About Travel Nursing?
Travel nurses have the same requirements as local registered nurses and those living in compact states.
As a result, travel nurses that live in compact states and travel to other compact states are covered by the nurse licensure compact agreement.
It means they do not need to obtain another license to work in NLC complaint states.
However, travel nurses must obtain licensing for non-compact states because the nursing licensure compact agreement does not cover them.
It includes travel nurses in compact states traveling to non-compact states and nurses working in single-licensure states.
With that said, travel nurses typically work with travel nursing agencies and healthcare facilities to ensure they have proper licensing.
For travel nurses not licensed in a particular state, the travel nurse agency/healthcare facility will help them become licensed.
It makes it significantly easier for travel nurses to work in numerous states.
Even more, travel nursing agencies work with healthcare facilities to cover travel accommodations and other travel expenses.
As a result, travel nurses can quickly start working in the new state once they’ve landed in that state.
Does an RN’s License Transfer From State to State?
As previously mentioned, a registered nurse’s license does not automatically transfer from state to state.
If the registered nurse is relocating or working in a non-NLC state, they must apply for a “licensure by endorsement” in that state.
However, nurses traveling on temporary assignments can work without applying for a state license covered under the NLC.
How Do I Get Licensed in Another State?
Registered nurses must apply for a “licensure by endorsement” in the state they’re transferring to in order to obtain licensing in another state.
To do this, registered nurses must visit the state board of nursing (BON) to determine the specific requirements for transferring their licenses.
Nowadays, it’s relatively easy to become licensed in another state. It may be as easy as filling out a few applications, receiving a background check, and paying state fees.
However, the licensing process varies depending on the state. Therefore, you’ll want to check that particular state to determine its process.
Can I transfer My RN license to another state?
Yes, you can transfer your registered nursing license to another state by applying for a”licensure by endorsement” in that particular state.
The application process varies by location, so you must contact that website or check their state board for specific requirements.
However, many states make it easy to become licensed, and it’s a short process.
You must fill out their forms and pay the licensing fees to do this.
With that said, you must also pass a background check administered by the state to ensure you qualify for the transfer.
If you’re applying for state licensing from another country, there are additional requirements before becoming certified in the state.
The exact requirements needed to become licensed vary by state. Therefore, you’ll want to contact that state regarding what’s necessary or licensing.
Hopefully, this article provided valuable information regarding whether registered nurses can work in any state.
Please share it with another registered nurse who would benefit from this information if you enjoyed this read.