If you are a registered nurse (RN) or a licensed practical nurse (LPN) looking for ways to transfer nursing license to another state. You can transfer your nursing license to another state by familiarizing yourself with the requirements of the new state. Each state has its own nursing board responsible for regulating the profession and establishing specific guidelines for license transfers. Start by visiting the nursing board website of the new state to gather information regarding their transfer process.
Understanding the process and requirements for transferring your nursing license is crucial to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any disruptions in your career. In this article, we will guide you through the steps involved in transferring your nursing license to another state, providing you with the information you need to navigate this process successfully.
As a nurse, your license grants you the legal authority to practice in a specific state. When you decide to move to another state, it is necessary to transfer your nursing license to maintain your professional standing and continue working as a nurse. Each state has its own licensing requirements and procedures, so it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations of the state you wish to move to.
Nursing licenses are issued by state nursing boards to ensure public safety and maintain professional standards. There are different types of nursing licenses, such as Registered Nurse (RN) and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), each with its own set of requirements and responsibilities. These licenses are obtained through education, clinical training, and successfully passing the licensure examination.
Your nursing license is your professional credential that verifies your qualifications and competence as a nurse. Transferring your nursing license ensures that you can continue providing care to patients and work legally in your new state.
There are various reasons why nurses choose to transfer their nursing license to another state. Some common reasons include:
Regardless of the reason, transferring your nursing license is essential to maintain your professional mobility and expand your career options.
| State | Compact | Temp Processing Time | Perm Processing Time | RN Fee | LPN Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Yes | 1 to 2 weeks | 1 to 2 weeks | $138.50 | |
| Alaska | No | 10 Days | 4 to 8 Weeks | $375 to $475 | $375 to $475 |
| Arizona | Yes | 30 Days RN 48+ Hour Walk through LPN |
2 to 3 Months | $250 | $50 |
| Arkansas | Yes | 14 Days RN 4 Days LPN |
4 to 10 Weeks | $125 | $125 |
| California | No | 6 to 10 Weeks | 3 to 6 months | $200 | $200 |
| Colorado | Yes | 14 Days RN 1 to 2 Weeks LPN |
4 to 10 Weeks | $43 | $43 |
| Connecticut | No | 2 Weeks RN 5 Days LPN |
3 to 4 Weeks RN 10 Days LPN |
$180 | $150 |
| Delaware | Yes | 1 Week | 2 to 6 Weeks | $250 | $150 |
| Florida | Yes | NA | 30 Days | $110 | $110 |
| Georgia | Yes | NA | 1 to 2 Weeks | $75 | .pdf – $75 |
| Hawaii | No | 10 to 15 Days |
2 to 4 Weeks RN 2 Weeks LPN |
$146 to $202 | $146 to $202 |
| Idaho | Yes | 2 Months | 2 to 4 Weeks RN 2 Weeks LPN |
$110 | $110 |
| Illinois | No | 3 to 4 Weeks | 2 to 3 Months RN 2 to 4 Weeks LPN |
$75 | $75 |
| Indiana | Pending (7/1/20) | 2 to 4 Weeks | 3 to 5 Weeks | $60 | $60 |
| Iowa | Yes | 1 Week | 1 to 3 Weeks | $169 | $169 |
| Kansas | Yes | 1 Week | 1 to 3 Weeks | $75 | $75 |
| Kentucky | Yes | 2 to 4 Weeks | 2 to 4 Weeks RN | 4 – 6 Weeks LPN | $180 | $180 |
| Louisiana | Yes | Walk Through | 6 to 12 Weeks | $140.75 | $175.75 |
| Maine | Yes | 1 to 2 Weeks (RN can work for 90 days temp) | Prior to Temp Exp RN | 1 Week LPN | $75 | $50 |
| Maryland | Yes | Walk through | 3 to 6 Weeks | (.pdf) $192.75 | (.pdf) $175.50 |
| Massachusetts | No | 10 Days | 1 to 4 Weeks | $275 | $275 |
| Michigan | No | N/A | 6 to 8 Weeks (2 year renewal cycle) | $208.80 | $208.80 |
| Minnesota | No | 2 to 5 days (lasts 60 days) | 1 to 2 Weeks | $138.25 | $138.25 |
| Mississippi | Yes | 3 to 5 days (lasts 90 days) | 1 to 3 Weeks | $175 | $135 |
| Missouri | Yes | Walk through (good for 6 months) | 1 to 3 Weeks | (.pdf) $55 | (.pdf) $51 |
| Montana | Yes | N/A | 1 to 3 Weeks | RN/LPN (.pdf) – $200 | |
| Nebraska | Yes | 3 to 6 Weeks (lasts 60 days) | 2 to 8 Weeks | RN (.pdf) – Fees Vary | LPN (.pdf) – Fees Vary |
| Nevada | No | N/A | N/A | $156.25 | $290 |
| New Hampshire | Yes | 2 to 6 Weeks | N/A | RN/LPN – $120 | |
| New Jersey | Partial | N/A | 4 to 6 Weeks | $258.69 | $258.69 |
| New Mexico | Yes | 2 to 4 Weeks | 2 to 4 Weeks | $160 | $115 |
| New York | No | N/A | 6 to 8 Weeks | $143 | $143 |
| North Carolina | Yes | 1 to 2 Weeks | 6 to 8 Weeks | RN/LPN – $150 | |
| North Dakota | Yes | 1 to 2 Weeks | 1 to 2 Weeks | RN/LPN – $160 | |
| Ohio | Yes | 3 to 4 Weeks | 6 to 8 Weeks | $75 + Home state fee | $75 + Home state fee |
| Oklahoma | Yes | 2 to 4 Weeks | 6 to 8 Weeks | (.pdf) $99 | (.pdf) $95 |
| Oregon | No | N/A | 4 to 6 Weeks | $268.50 | $268.50 |
| Pennsylvania | Pending | 1 to 2 Weeks | 4 to 8 Weeks | (.pdf) $135 | (.pdf) $155 |
| Rhode Island | Pending | N/A | 4 to 8 Weeks | $135 | $135 |
| South Carolina | Yes | N/A | 2 to 8 Weeks | $110 | $186.50 |
| South Dakota | Yes | 1 to 2 Weeks RN | 3 to 6 Weeks LPN | 3 to 5 Weeks | $125 | $125 |
| Tennessee | Yes | 4 to 6 Weeks | 4 to 8 Weeks | (.pdf) $115 | (.pdf) $115 |
| Texas | Yes | 1 to 2 Weeks | 2 to 3 Weeks | $186 | $111 |
| Utah | Yes | N/A | 2 to 3 Weeks | RN/LPN – $100 | |
| Vermont | Yes | Walk Through | 2 to 3 Weeks | $150 | $150 |
| Virginia | Yes | 7 to 10 Days RN | 3 to 6 Days LPN | 2 to 6 Weeks | $190 | $170 |
| Washington | No | 2 to 3 Weeks RN | N/A LPN | 4 to 8 Weeks | $120 | $88 |
| West Virginia | Yes |
2 to 3 Weeks RN | N/A LPN |
4 to 6 Weeks | $200 | $100 |
| Wisconsin | Yes | 10 to 14 Days | 4 to 6 Weeks | $100 | $100 |
| Wyoming | Yes | 2 to 4 Weeks | 2 to 4 Weeks | $160 | $100 |
Before initiating the license transfer process, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the requirements and procedures set by the nursing board of the state you intend to move to. Here are some steps to follow:
If you’re a nurse planning to practice in a different state, you’ll need to apply for a nursing license in that state. The process may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right information and guidance, it can be a smooth and straightforward experience. Here are some tips for applying, so let’s dive into the specific steps you’ll need to take:
Before you begin the process of transferring your nursing license, you'll need to research the specific requirements for the state you're moving to. These requirements can vary widely from state to state, so it's important to do your homework.
Some common requirements include:
You can find detailed information on the requirements for transferring your nursing license on the website of the state board of nursing in the state you're moving to.
Once you've researched the requirements, gather all the necessary documents needed for your application. These documents may include:
Once you've researched the requirements for transferring your nursing license to the new state and gather all the required documents, it's time to submit an application for licensure in that state.
You can typically find the application form on the state board of nursing website. Some states may require you to submit a paper application, while others allow you to apply online. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and provide all of the information requested.
After you've submitted your application for licensure in the new state, you'll need to request verification of your current license from the state where it was issued. This verification serves as proof that your license is in good standing and allows the new state to confirm your eligibility for licensure.
To request verification, you'll typically need to contact the state board of nursing where your current license is held. They will provide you with the necessary forms and instructions for requesting verification. Make sure to complete the forms accurately and include any required fees.
After submitting your application, it's essential to follow up and monitor the status of your application. Some states provide online portals or systems where you can track the progress of your application. Alternatively, you may need to contact the state board of nursing directly for updates.
Transferring your nursing license to another state is a significant step in your nursing career. By understanding the requirements, conducting thorough research, and following the necessary steps, you can ensure a smooth and successful license transfer process. Remember to be patient throughout the process, as it may take time to complete all the necessary steps. By maintaining licensure in multiple states or obtaining a compact license, you can enhance your professional opportunities and enjoy greater flexibility in your nursing career.
Answer: Yes, you can work in New York with a Florida nursing license, but you will need to apply for a license endorsement from the New York State Education Department’s Office of the Professions. The endorsement process typically involves submitting an application, providing documentation, and paying the required fees. Once approved, you will be issued a New York nursing license, allowing you to practice in the state.
Answer: Texas is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses with a Texas nursing license to practice in other compact states without the need for additional licenses. However, if you plan to practice in a non-compact state, you will need to apply for a license in that state through endorsement or another applicable process.
Answer: The difficulty level of the NCLEX exam can vary from individual to individual, and it is designed to measure a candidate’s competency to practice safely as an entry-level nurse. The passing standard for the exam is consistent across all states. Therefore, it is not accurate to say that one state has a harder NCLEX exam than another.
Answer: Yes, New York is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which means that nurses with a multistate license from another compact state can practice in New York without obtaining an additional license. However, if you hold a single-state license from a non-compact state, you will need to apply for a New York nursing license through endorsement or another applicable process.
Answer: The cost of transferring a nursing license to another state can vary depending on the state’s requirements and the associated fees. Typically, there are application fees, verification fees, and possibly fees for fingerprinting or background checks. The total cost can range from around $100 to a few hundred dollars or more, depending on the specific state.
Answer: The timeframe to obtain a nursing license in another state can vary. It depends on factors such as the efficiency of the state’s nursing board, the completeness of your application, and any additional requirements or processes involved. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to receive a nursing license in another state.
Answer: To transfer your nursing license to North Carolina, you will need to follow the endorsement process. You will typically be required to submit an application, provide verification of your current license, submit any necessary documentation, and pay the required fees. The North Carolina Board of Nursing website will have detailed instructions and forms for the endorsement process, and it is advisable to review those resources and contact the board directly for any specific questions or concerns you may have.
Each state has their own rules and procedures when it comes to getting licensed, and there are currently 32 compact states. Getting you compact license makes travel very easy between other compact states, however you can still apply for other states through the process of endorsement.
Find the state you are interested in below and click the state for more info, or click on your specialty to begin the process.
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 1 to 2 weeks.
Perm Processing Time – 1 to 2 weeks.
Compact – No
Temp Processing Time – 10 Days
Perm Processing Time – 4 to 8 Weeks
RN – $375 to $475
LPN – $375 to $475
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 30 Days RN | 48+ Hour Walk through LPN
Perm Processing Time – 2 to 3 Months
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 14 Days RN | 4 Days LPN
Perm Processing Time – 4 to 10 Weeks
Compact – No
Temp Processing Time – 6 to 10 Weeks
Perm Processing Time – 3 to 6 months
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 14 Days RN | 1 to 2 Weeks LPN
Perm Processing Time – 4 to 10 Weeks
Compact – No
Temp Processing Time – 2 Weeks RN | 5 Days LPN
Perm Processing Time – 3 to 4 Weeks RN | 10 Days LPN
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 1 Week
Perm Processing Time – 2 to 6 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – NA
Perm Processing Time – 30 Days
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – NA
Perm Processing Time – 1 to 2 Weeks.
Compact – No
Temp Processing Time – 10 to 15 Days
Perm Processing Time – 2 to 4 Weeks RN | 2 Weeks LPN
RN – $146 to $202
LPN – $146 to $202
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 2 Months
Perm Processing Time – 2 to 4 Weeks RN | 2 Weeks LPN
Compact – No
Temp Processing Time – 3 to 4 Weeks
Perm Processing Time – 2 to 3 Months RN | 2 to 4 Weeks LPN
Compact – Pending (7/1/20)
Temp Processing Time – 2 to 4 Weeks
Perm Processing Time – 3 to 5 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 1 Week
Perm Processing Time – 1 to 3 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 1 Week
Perm Processing Time – 1 to 3 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 2 to 4 Weeks
Perm Processing Time – 2 to 4 Weeks RN | 4 – 6 Weeks LPN
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – Walk Through
Perm Processing Time – 6 to 12 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 1 to 2 Weeks (RN can work for 90 days temp)
Perm Processing Time – Prior to Temp Exp RN | 1 Week LPN
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – Walk through
Perm Processing Time – 3 to 6 Weeks
RN – (.pdf) $192.75
LPN (.pdf)- $175.50
Compact – No
Temp Processing Time – 10 Days
Perm Processing Time – 1 to 4 Weeks
Compact – No
Temp Processing Time – N/A
Perm Processing Time – 6 to 8 Weeks (2 year renewal cycle)
Compact – No
Temp Processing Time – 2 to 5 days (lasts 60 days)
Perm Processing Time – 1 to 2 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 3 to 5 days (lasts 90 days)
Perm Processing Time – 1 to 3 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – Walk through (good for 6 months)
Perm Processing Time – 1 to 3 Weeks
RN (.pdf) – $55
LPN (.pdf) – $51
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – N/A
Perm Processing Time – 1 to 3 Weeks
RN/LPN (.pdf) – $200
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 3 to 6 Weeks (lasts 60 days)
Perm Processing Time – 2 to 8 Weeks
RN (.pdf) – Fees Vary
LPN (.pdf) – Fees Vary
Compact – No
Temp Processing Time – N/A
Perm Processing Time – N/A
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 2 to 6 Weeks
Perm Processing Time – N/A
RN/LPN – $120
Compact – Partial
Temp Processing Time – N/A
Perm Processing Time – 4 to 6 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 2 to 4 Weeks
Perm Processing Time – 2 to 4 Weeks
Compact – No
Temp Processing Time – N/A
Perm Processing Time – 6 to 8 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 1 to 2 Weeks
Perm Processing Time – 6 to 8 Weeks
RN/LPN – $150
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 1 to 2 Weeks
Perm Processing Time – 1 to 2 Weeks
RN/LPN – $160
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 3 to 4 Weeks
Perm Processing Time – 6 to 8 Weeks
RN – $75 + Home state fee
LPN – $75 + Home state fee
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 2 to 4 Weeks
Perm Processing Time – 6 to 8 Weeks
RN (.pdf) – $99
LPN (.pdf) – $95
Compact – No
Temp Processing Time – N/A
Perm Processing Time – 4 to 6 Weeks
Compact – Pending
Temp Processing Time – 1 to 2 Weeks
Perm Processing Time – 4 to 8 Weeks
RN (.pdf) – $135
LPN (.pdf) – $155
Compact – Pending
Temp Processing Time – N/A
Perm Processing Time – 4 to 8 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – N/A
Perm Processing Time – 2 to 8 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 1 to 2 Weeks RN | 3 to 6 Weeks LPN
Perm Processing Time – 3 to 5 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 4 to 6 Weeks
Perm Processing Time – 4 to 8 Weeks
RN (.pdf)- $115
LPN (.pdf) – $115
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 1 to 2 Weeks
Perm Processing Time – 2 to 3 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – N/A
Perm Processing Time – 2 to 3 Weeks
RN/LPN – $100
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – Walk Through
Perm Processing Time – 2 to 3 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 7 to 10 Days RN | 3 to 6 Days LPN
Perm Processing Time – 2 to 6 Weeks
Compact – No
Temp Processing Time – 2 to 3 Weeks RN | N/A LPN
Perm Processing Time – 4 to 8 Weeks
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 2 to 3 Weeks RN | N/A LPN
Perm Processing Time – 4 to 8 Weeks
RN (portal) – $120
LPN (portal) – $88
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 2 Weeks RN | 5 Weeks LPN
Perm Processing Time – 2 Weeks RN | 6 Weeks LPN
RN (.pdf) – $200
LPN (.pdf) – $92
Compact – Yes
Temp Processing Time – 1 Week
Perm Processing Time – 2 Weeks
RN (.pdf) – $200
LPN (.pdf) – $190
Find your next travel rn job here!
Find your next travel rn job here!
