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Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC): Who Qualifies and What You Get

Learn how the Nurse Licensure Compact allows nurses to practice in multiple states without needing separate licenses for each one.

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) is a system that allows nurses to hold a multi-state license, making it easier to work across different borders.

Who it's for

This scheme is for nurses who reside in a state that participates in the compact agreement.

What you get

If you have a compact license, you gain the ability to practice nursing in other participating states without the need to apply for and obtain additional individual licenses for every new state.

What it costs you

To keep this benefit, you must maintain your primary state residency in a state that is part of the compact.

The catch to know

The multi-state benefit is tied to where you live. If you move to a state that does not participate in the compact, you will be required to obtain a new, individual license for that state.

How to apply

  1. Verify that your home state is a member of the compact.
  2. Apply for a multi-state license through your state's nursing board.
  3. Maintain your residency requirements to keep your privileges active.
  4. Visit the official portal for more details: https://www.ncsbn.org/nclc.htm