Get Licensed for Your Destination State

You’ve got enough on your mind preparing for the big move, so we’re here to help you through the licensure process. Our dedicated team of credentialists is here to support you through every step. Learn more in the following guide.

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The Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) was introduced to expand access to nursing care and nurse mobility across the U.S. The NLC allows RNs with multi-state licenses to practice in any state covered by the Compact.

Not all U.S. states are covered by the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). To practice in one of these states, RNs will need to obtain a license from that specific state. And we can help.

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Important Things to Know

There are a few important NLC items to understand so you can more easily navigate the licensure process – and we’ll be supporting you through all of it.

Primary State of Residence

This is your home state – either where you physically live or have legally declared as your primary residence. The NLC allows only one state to be listed as the primary residence.

Multi-state License

If you’re a nurse whose primary residence is in an NLC state, you can apply for a multi-state license that lets you practice in any state covered by the NLC.

Act Early

The timing between getting your license and starting an assignment in a new state is critical. We strongly recommend beginning the process early to make sure you’re licensed prior to beginning your assignment.

Not sure which license you need?​

Use the guide and map below to determine what type of license you may need for your next assignment.

Licensure Guide

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There are several standard documents you can use to verify your Primary State of Residence. Here are a few of the most common. Remember, you can have only one Primary State of Residence, and the address on each document must match.

  • Driver's license
  • Voter's registration card
  • Federal tax return

W2 from a federal agency, bureau, or division

Well, that depends. If you have a valid multi-state license and will be working in an NLC-covered state, probably not. If the state isn’t covered by NLC, you may need to apply for a license. Rules vary by state and can be complicated. Don’t worry, we work with you closely to determine what licenses and certifications you’ll need. At Kiwi, you’ll always receive personalized attention and support to navigate the credentialing and licensure processes smoothly.

Once you move, you’ll need to visit that state’s Board of Nursing website and apply for a licensing endorsement. You can still practice under your current multi-state license until another one is issued for your new Primary State of Residence. At that point, the former license becomes inactive. Remember, though, your original multi-state license must be active when you apply for the new one. Don’t wait for it to expire.

The first step is to notify your current state’s Board of Nursing that you’re moving to an address in a non-compact state. This will change your multi-state license to a single-state license.

Next, go to the website of your new state’s Board of Nursing and apply online for an endorsement. You can do this before actually moving to the new Primary State of Residence.

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Real Talk from Real Travelers

"This has been my first travel assignment with Kiwi, and it has been great so far. My recruiter has been amazing, to say the least. He advocates for his nurses, and in my case, he even found me a better-paying contract than I originally had inquired about. My questions always get answered in a timely fashion, overall, I am very pleased to work for Kiwi.”

Erica

LTC RN

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