THE BASICS
1. What the compact does
- One multistate licensePractice in every compact state
- You must live in a compact stateTo get the multistate license
- It's the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)Run through NCSBN
Source: NCSBN Nurse Licensure Compact.
THE COUNT
2. 43 jurisdictions are in
- 43 jurisdictions have enacted the NLCMost are fully implemented
- A few are still waitingLicenses aren't available there yet
- Check the live mapnursecompact.com
Source: NCSBN Nurse Licensure Compact.
NEW RECENTLY
3. The newest additions
- PennsylvaniaImplemented July 7, 2025
- ConnecticutImplemented Oct. 1, 2025
- Still waiting: Massachusetts, Guam, U.S. Virgin IslandsDates to be determined
Source: NCSBN NLC implementation status.
NOT IN
4. Big states still not in
- CaliforniaNot a compact state
- New York and IllinoisNot compact states
- Oregon and NevadaNot compact states
Source: NCSBN NLC list. Check your board for the latest.
THE RULES
5. Before you take a travel job
- Your multistate license comes from your home state
- Moving to another compact state? You'll switch licenses
- Non-compact states need their own license
- Always check the board's site before you start
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