Compact Nursing License 101
As a travel nurse, you have the opportunity to work and play in a variety of cities and states. Instead of obtaining a new license in each state you travel to, you can apply for a Nurse Licensure Compact. If you’re unsure about what a compact license is or how to obtain one, don’t worry! We’ve created the ultimate guide to the Nurse Licensure Compact to help explain how it works, so you can concentrate on finding your dream assignments.
What is a Compact Nursing License?
A compact license is a game-changer for travel nurses. With a multistate license through the Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), you can practice in multiple states without the need for a license from each individual state. This not only saves you time and effort but also opens up a world of opportunities. Practicing in multiple states allows you to gain diverse experiences, learn from different healthcare systems, and broaden your professional network. Whether you’re dreaming of hiking the mountains of Colorado or relaxing on the beaches of Florida, an eNLC makes it a breeze to travel and work across various states. It’s the key to unlocking your career’s full potential!
As of October 2025, 43 jurisdictions are part of the eNLC. The eNLC includes higher standards and regulations for nurses, such as background checks, to better ensure patient safety and quality of care. This commitment to rigorous standards should give you confidence in the integrity of the eNLC.
Which States Can I Work in With Nurse Licensure Compact?
Since its implementation, most states have joined the eNLC, with 43 jurisdictions that have enacted the eNLC as of October 2025. Several states are currently considering or in the process of passing legislation to enact the eNLC, and you can follow updates through the NCSBN. As more states opt in, it becomes even easier for nurses to work across state lines.
If a state is listed as having legislation pending, it means:
- Lawmakers in that state have introduced a bill that would allow the state to join the Nurse Licensure Compact.
- The bill is not yet passed into law—it’s working its way through the legislative process (committees, votes, etc.).
- Nurses in that state do not yet have multistate privileges—they still need to wait until the legislation is passed and fully implemented before they can apply for a compact license.
View the map below for a full list of states currently participating in the eNLC.
Additional Information About the Nurse Licensure Compact
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing has created an online list of frequently asked questions and answers to help you understand how the eNLC works. Some states are in the process of passing legislation to join the compact, while others are still considering it. Here’s how you can stay updated as things progress:
- Visit the NCSBN website for important eNLC updates
- Contact your home state board for application details
- Get in touch with your recruiter for further assistance
Frequently Asked Questions
We have provided some answers to common questions below, and you can find the complete list on the NCSBN website.
How can I get a Compact Nursing License if I live in a Noncompact State?
Only nurses who declare a compact state as their primary state of residence are eligible for a multistate license. If you are a resident of a noncompact state, you can still apply for a license in a compact state. However, your eligibility will be limited to a single-state license that is valid in that state only. Of course, you can have as many single-state licenses as you wish.
I live in a Compact State and am unsure if I have a multistate license or not. What do I need to do to get a multistate license?
If you stated that state as your main residence when you applied for the license and fulfilled that state’s licensing requirements, the license you got should already be a multistate license. You can confirm this using the Quick Confirm tool at www.nursys.com. If your license isn’t marked as multistate, you should get in touch with the nursing board of your main state of residence.
Where is the compact application and what is the application fee?
Use the application for licensure by exam or by endorsement provided on the Board of Nursing (BON) website. Licensure fees differ by state. If your legal residence is in a state that became part of the compact on or before Jan. 19, 2018, and you hold a single-state license in that state, you should complete the upgrade or conversion application for a multistate license on your BON’s website.
What does Primary State of Residence (PSOR) mean?
PSOR is the state where you primarily live and work. It’s the state where you hold a current driver’s license, voter’s card, federal income tax return, military form no. 2058 or W2 form. If a nurse’s PSOR is a compact state, that nurse may be eligible for a multistate license. If a nurse cannot declare a compact state as their PSOR, that nurse is not eligible for a compact license. They may apply for a single-state license in any state where they wish to practice.
TNAA and TotalMed: Your Dedicated Licensing Team
In conclusion, obtaining a Compact Nursing License (CNL) can revolutionize your travel nursing career by providing the flexibility to practice in multiple states while saving time and effort. The opportunities for diverse experiences, professional growth, and personal adventure are boundless with a CNL. Don’t miss out on the chance to unlock your career’s full potential.
To help you navigate your licensing needs, we have a team of experienced and dedicated Licensing Specialists who are ready to assist you through the entire licensing process from start to finish. As soon as you secure an assignment with us, the licensing team will reach out to you to help you obtain a license for your travel nurse assignment.
Not ready to travel with us yet? No worries! Our Licensing Team is able to provide you with quick tips and tricks on how to apply for a license. We have information on turnaround times and licensing costs that are available for all states. Just let your recruiter know which states you are interested in, and we can provide you with information on obtaining that license.
Ready to see where your travel nurse career can take you? Check out our available travel nurse jobs and apply today!
