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Travel nursing has become an increasingly popular nursing career path for registered nurses who love to travel and want to explore new regions of the United States while working in their profession. The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) is a multistate agreement that allows registered nurses to practice in all NLC states with a single license, making travel nursing easier and more convenient for RNs.
What is the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)?
The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) is an agreement between participating states that allows registered nurses (RNs) to work in other NLC states with a single nursing license. To date, there are 34 states that have joined the NLC, making it easier for RNs to work across state lines without the need for multiple state licenses.
What is a Compact State?
A compact state is a state that has enacted the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) legislation, which allows registered nurses (RNs) to practice nursing in all compact states with a single license. This means that RNs holding an active nursing license in their home state (compact state) can work in other compact states without the need for a separate nursing license.
What are the Benefits of Travel Nursing in Compact States?
Travel nursing in compact states has many benefits for registered nurses (RNs). Some of the benefits include:
| Benefits of Travel Nursing in Compact States |
|---|
| Ability to work in multiple states with a single nursing license |
| Increased flexibility and freedom to travel |
| Higher pay rates compared to permanent staff nurses |
| Opportunity to gain new clinical experiences and learn new skills |
| Access to health benefits, housing subsidies, and travel reimbursements |
How to Get a Nursing License in a Compact State?
If you are a registered nurse (RN) looking to work in a compact state, you must first obtain a nursing license in your primary state of residence (home state). Once you have an active nursing license in your home state, you can apply for a multistate nursing license through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and then practice nursing in other compact states without the need for additional licenses.
What are the Requirements for a Multistate Nursing License?
To obtain a multistate nursing license, you must meet the following requirements:
| Requirements for a Multistate Nursing License |
|---|
| State of residence must be a compact state |
| Meet the licensure requirements for your home state |
| Have no legal restrictions on nursing practice |
| Pass an NCLEX-RN exam or a state-approved nursing exam |
| Meet additional requirements for each compact state |
What are the Compact States for Nursing?
As of now, there are 34 states that have enacted the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) legislation and are considered compact states for nursing. These compact states include:
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- New Mexico
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Conclusion
Travel nursing jobs in compact states are a great option for RNs who love to travel and explore new places while working in their profession. The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) makes it easier for RNs to work across state lines with a single nursing license, saving both time and money. To work in a compact state, RNs must obtain a nursing license in their primary state of residence and meet the requirements for a multistate nursing license. By working as a travel nurse in a compact state, RNs can enjoy flexibility, higher pay rates, and new clinical experiences.