For nurses who want flexibility, mobility and access to more job opportunities, the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) provides significant value. Instead of applying for a separate license in every state where you may wish to work, the compact allows eligible nurses to practice across participating states with a singular, multistate license.
This is especially useful for travel nurses who often move from one assignment to another on short notice. But, how exactly does the NLC work? Which states participate and what should nurses know before pursuing the NLC process?
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about nursing compact states in 2026, including how the compact works, why it matters and which states currently participate (including newer additions such as Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island).
What are nursing compact states?
Nursing compact states are members of the Nurse Licensure Compact, an agreement that allows registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPNs/VNs) to practice in multiple states under one license.
The compact is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and was modernized in 2018 through the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). The updated framework strengthened eligibility requirements and standardized background checks to improve public safety and regulatory consistency.
If you live in a compact state and qualify for a multistate nursing license, you can:
- Practice in any participating state without applying for additional licenses
- Accept travel assignments faster
- Provide in-person or telehealth care across state lines (where permitted)
- Avoid multiple application fees and renewal processes
Be aware: Your primary state of residence must be a compact state to hold a multistate license.
Why the NLC matters for travel nurses
For travel nurses, speed and flexibility are everything. Licensing delays can mean missing assignments, losing income or waiting weeks to start a role.
A compact nursing license helps remove those barriers by allowing nurses to move between participating states without repeating the licensing process every time. Key benefits include:
- Faster job placement. Travel nurses can accept assignments in multiple states without waiting for license approval.
- Lower administrative burden. Instead of managing multiple licenses, renewal deadlines and fees, nurses maintain one primary license.
- Expanded career opportunities. With more eligible work locations, nurses can pursue assignments that fit their goals, whether they’re seeking higher pay, preferred specialties or new geographic experiences.
- Greater workforce mobility. Healthcare facilities also benefit since they can fill staffing shortages more quickly with qualified nurses from other compact states.
For nurses who plan to work across state lines regularly, a multistate nursing license is most often the most efficient path.
How a multi-state nursing license works
A compact license is issued by your primary state of residence. That state verifies your eligibility and grants multistate privileges.
To qualify, nurses generally must:
- Reside in a compact state
- Hold an active, unencumbered nursing license
- Meet uniform licensure requirements
- Pass federal and state background checks
- Comply with home state renewal requirements
Once issued, your license allows you to practice physically or remotely in another compact state.
The 60-Day Rule: If you move from one compact state to another, you must apply for a license in your new primary state of residence within 60 days of relocating. Your former multistate license will convert to a single-state license once your residency changes.
This rule ensures your home state always has regulatory authority over your license.
Nursing Compact States in 2026
More states are recognizing the benefits of workforce mobility and streamlined licensure. As such, participation in the NLC continues to expand.
Active NLC states fully participate and issue multistate licenses (subject to eligibility requirements). Many states across the South and Midwest are longstanding members.
Most U.S. states are either active members or have enacted legislation to join the compact. As of February, 43 jurisdictions are part of the NLC.
Source: NCSBN
Several states have passed legislation to join the NLC and are in various stages of implementation. Notable new participants include:
- Connecticut
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
As these states finalize implementation steps, such as regulatory alignment and administrative setup, eligible nurses will gain multistate practice privileges tied to residency there.
Some states have not yet joined the NLC. Nurses who live in those states must obtain individual licenses to practice elsewhere, although they may still apply for licensure by endorsement in other states if needed.
Because legislation and implementation timelines can change, nurses should always confirm participation status with a relevant state board of nursing or the NCSBN.
Compact license vs. single-state license
Not every nurse needs a multistate license. By understanding the difference between license types, you can choose what’s best for your career.
Single-state license
- Allows practice only in the issuing state
- Governed solely by the state’s nursing board
- May be sufficient for nurses who plan to work in one location long-term
Compact (multistate) license
- Allows practice in all participating states
- Requires meeting uniform eligibility standards
- Ideal for travel nurses, telehealth providers and nurses seeking geographic flexibility
If you expect to work even occasionally in multiple states, a compact license can save significant time and effort.
What about APRNs?
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) have their own multistate licensure pathway through the APRN Compact.
The adoption of the APRN Compact is happening more gradually than the RN/LPN compact, however the goal is similar: allow APRNs (such as nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives and clinical nurse specialists) to practice across state lines under one license.
Implementation varies by state, so APRNs should verify eligibility and status before relying on multistate practice privileges.
Is a compact nursing license right for you?
A multistate license makes the most sense if you:
- Plan to work travel assignments
- Want flexibility to relocate or explore new regions
- Provide telehealth services across state lines
- Want to reduce licensing paperwork and fees
The flipside: If you plan to stay permanently in one state that does not participate in the compact, a single-state license is likely all you need.
Your career goals, mobility preferences and residency status may all play a role in determining the best path.
Take your nursing career across the country with Prolink
Understanding the intricacies of nursing compact states is essential for any nurse looking to expand their opportunities in today’s mobile healthcare workforce. With the NLC growing, multistate practice is becoming more accessible than ever.
Whether you’re preparing for your first travel assignment or planning your next move, the right license can make all the difference.
Prolink can help you navigate the licensing process, obtain or renew your credentials and connect with high-quality travel nursing opportunities across the country. From securing competitive pay to streamlining onboarding, our experienced team supports you every step of the way.
Ready to take advantage of compact licensure, explore opportunities and expand your career? Connect with Prolink and start your next adventure today.
