Kim Lee | April 30th, 2025
Whether you’re a seasoned travel nurse or just starting your journey in healthcare, understanding the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) is essential. It’s one of the most common topics we get asked about — and for good reason! The NLC can open the door to career flexibility, more opportunities, and easier transitions between states. But if you’re new to this concept or still wondering what it means for your nursing license, don’t worry. You’re not alone.
What is the NLC (Nurse Licensure Compact)?
Let’s start with the basics.
The Nurse Licensure Compact, or NLC, is an agreement between states that allows registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/VNs) to have one multistate license. That license gives them the privilege to practice in other NLC Compact States without having to obtain additional licenses.
Think of it as a driver’s license for nurses. If you have a driver’s license from Texas, you can legally drive in California or Florida without getting a new one. The NLC works the same way — but for nurses and their ability to work across state lines.
Why is the NLC Important for Nurses?
Great question!
Here’s why the NLC is such a game changer:
- Flexibility: Want to take a travel nursing assignment in another state? No problem.
- Faster hiring: Healthcare facilities often need nurses quickly. With the NLC, employers don’t have to wait for licensing processes.
- Cost-effective: Skip the hassle and expense of applying for multiple licenses.
- Work during emergencies: Natural disaster? Pandemic? NLC nurses can cross state lines and help — fast.
In short, the NLC makes it easier for nurses to help where they’re needed most.
NLC Compact States in 2025: Where Can You Practice?
Now let’s get to the part you really want to know: which states are NLC Compact States in 2025?
As of this year, more than 40 states are fully participating in the NLC. This includes states like Texas, Florida, Arizona, and North Carolina — all places that have been part of the compact for years. But, 2025 also brings some interesting updates, including new states joining and others (like Connecticut) taking steps toward full implementation.
photo by: ncsbn.org
Here’s a look at the key categories:
✅ Fully Implemented NLC States in 2025
These are the states where you can practice with a multistate license, right now:
- Texas
- Florida
- Arizona
- North Carolina
- Georgia
- Missouri
- Tennessee
- Idaho
- South Dakota
- Alabama
- Utah
- Iowa
- Wisconsin
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Mississippi
- Montana
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- North Dakota
- Oklahoma
- South Carolina
- Virginia
- Wyoming
- Colorado
- Arkansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- West Virginia
- Delaware
These states are fully on board, meaning that if your home state is one of them and you hold a compact license, you can practice freely across all other participating compact states.
🟡 NLC Enacted but Partially Implemented (as of 2025)
This is where things get a bit more nuanced — and where states like Connecticut come into play.
Some states have enacted the NLC, meaning they’ve passed the legislation, but they haven’t fully implemented it yet. This might be due to regulatory delays, technological upgrades, or setting up systems to verify nurse eligibility.
Here are some states in this category for 2025:
- Connecticut (The legislation was signed into law on May 30, 2024, and is set to take effect on October 1, 2025. The state is now in the implementation phase, which may take between one and two years to complete.)
- Virgin Islands
Let’s talk about Connecticut for a moment. This state enacted the NLC but is still working through the infrastructure and system updates needed to allow nurses to begin practicing under compact privileges. If you’re eyeing Connecticut for a travel assignment, stay tuned — things are moving in the right direction, but you may still need a state-specific license for now.
❌ Non-NLC States in 2025
Unfortunately, not every state has adopted the compact — yet.
Here are states that still require individual state licensure:
- Alaska
- American Samoa
- California
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Mariana Islands
- Minnesota
- New York
- Nevada
- Oregon
These states are often in discussion but haven’t yet passed NLC legislation. If you’re planning to work in any of these locations, you’ll need to go through the usual licensure process for that particular state.
How to Know If You Qualify for a Compact License
To be eligible for a compact license, you must:
- Reside in an NLC state — Your primary state of residence must be a compact member.
- Hold an active RN or LPN/VN license — You’ll need to meet your home state’s licensure requirements.
- Pass a background check — This typically includes fingerprinting and federal background screening.
- Meet uniform licensure requirements — These include having graduated from an approved education program and passing the NCLEX.
Once you meet all the requirements, you can apply for a multistate license from your home state board of nursing.
Transitioning to an NLC State: What You Need to Know
Let’s say you’re moving from California (a non-NLC state) to Texas (a fully compact state). Once you establish Texas as your primary residence, you can apply for a multistate license.
Just keep in mind:
- You can only hold one multistate license at a time.
- Your multistate license will be issued by your primary state of residence.
- If you move to another compact state, you’ll need to transfer your license to that new state.
Pro Tips for Travel Nurses Navigating the NLC
- Stay informed: Check with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) regularly for updates on NLC status.
- Work with a recruiter who knows the compact system: The right recruiter can help you navigate licensing and find jobs that fit your license.
- Always verify with the state board: Laws can change fast. Before accepting an assignment, double-check your eligibility with the specific state’s board of nursing.
- Keep your license current: Multistate licenses must be renewed regularly. Make sure you stay in good standing with your home state board.
So if you’re just starting your journey or exploring your next travel assignment, understanding where you can go with your license is the first step. Now that you know which states are in, which are on the way, and what to expect, you’re ready to take the next leap in your nursing career with confidence.
If you aren’t already heading to your next assignment, let’s chat! 😊
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