How to Transfer Your Nursing License Between States for ER Travel Nurses
Are you ready to take your ER nursing career on the road? Whether you want to explore new cities, gain diverse clinical experiences, or enjoy the perks of travel nursing, transferring your nursing license between states can be the key to unlocking exciting opportunities.
If you're an ER travel nurse who’s eager to move where the demand (and adventure!) takes you, this guide explains how to efficiently transfer your nursing license, including methods for both compact and non-compact states.
By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly how to prepare for your next assignment with ease.
Why Licensing is Key for ER Travel Nurses
Nurse licensing is the backbone of your career in travel nursing. It ensures that wherever you work, you’re meeting the same professional and legal standards. For ER travel nurses, who are often jumping into fast-paced, critical situations, a valid license is non-negotiable.
Without the proper credentials, you could face delays in onboarding for assignments or even eligibility issues for certain jobs. Additionally, knowing your license transfers smoothly can help reduce stress as you move between states.
Understanding Nursing Compact States
Before we jump into the licensing transfer process, there’s an essential concept to understand first: Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC).
Under the NLC, eligible nurses can practice in multiple states without needing to hold separate licenses for each one. Currently, 43 states and territories participate in this compact, and new ones are being added regularly.
How It Works
- With an NLC multistate license, you can travel and work in any participating compact state without additional steps.
- If your primary state of residence is an NLC state, this license is issued automatically after you meet all eligibility requirements.
Here’s a sample list of compact states:
- Texas
- Florida
- Arizona
- Georgia
- Colorado
Benefits of the NLC for Travel Nurses
- Ease of Mobility: Move between compact states seamlessly without being bogged down in complex paperwork.
- Faster Turnaround: Reduces the time to start a new assignment, letting you accept jobs on short notice.
- Cost Savings: Avoid paying multiple licensing fees for individual states.
However, not all U.S. states participate in the NLC. For example, California, New York, and Nevada still require separate state licenses.
How to Transfer Your Nursing License Between States
If your next assignment takes you to a non-compact state, you’ll need to go through the licensing process for that particular state. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you transfer your nursing license with minimal hassle.
Step 1: Research State Requirements
Each state has unique requirements for RNs applying for licensure by endorsement (when transferring a license from one state to another). Some states require exams, while others simply verify your existing credentials.
The Nurse Practitioner License Guide by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) is an excellent resource for up-to-date requirements.
Key documents typically required include:
- Proof of an active and unencumbered RN license in your home state
- Verification of education (e.g., transcripts)
- Passing results from the NCLEX-RN exam
Step 2: Submit Your Application for Licensure by Endorsement
Most states accept applications online through their State Board of Nursing portal. You’ll need to create an account and provide comprehensive details about your current license, education, and work experience.
Pro tip: Some states allow you to apply before your assignment is confirmed, helping you avoid delays.
Step 3: Undergo Background Checks and Fingerprinting
Several states require fingerprint-based criminal background checks as part of their licensing process. Many boards partner with third-party services like Live Scan to facilitate this.
Be sure to schedule fingerprinting early, as the processing time can vary from a few days to several weeks depending on the state.
Step 4: Pay Applicable Fees
Licensing fees differ from state to state, but they typically range between $50 to $200. Make sure to factor these costs into your travel nursing budget.
Some employers or travel nursing agencies may reimburse you for licensing fees, so check with your recruiter.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
License approval timelines depend on the individual state’s regulatory board workload. While some states have turnarounds of 2-4 weeks, others may take several months.
To avoid delays, double-check your application for accuracy before submission.
Stay Organized with Nurse Licensure Tools
Managing multiple nursing licenses can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re constantly on the go. Nursys® e-Notify is a great tool to keep up with license verification and status changes, and spreadsheet apps like Google Sheets can help you track which states you’re licensed in and your renewal deadlines.
What If My State Joins the NLC Mid-Career?
Good news! If your home state becomes a compact state while you’re already working, you may have the opportunity to convert your license to a multistate one. Typically, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:
- Primary residence in the compact state
- Clear background check
- Active, unencumbered license
Check with your state’s Board of Nursing for more details.
Taking the Stress Out of Travel Nursing
Licensing might feel like a headache, but it’s also your ticket to an exciting and rewarding career. With proper preparation, ensuring your nursing license transfers in time won’t stand in your way.
If you’re feeling unsure or overwhelmed, connect with your travel nursing agency for support. Most agencies, like AMN Healthcare, specialize in helping travel nurses handle licensing logistics, so you can focus on what truly matters: delivering outstanding care to patients.
