Compact States
States that have implemented the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The NLC is an interstate agreement that allows an RN with a multi-state license to practice in any state that has implemented the Compact.
Primary State of Residence
This is your home state, or the state where you declare a primary residence for legal purposes. Only one state can be identified as the primary state of residence for NLC purposes.
Multi-State License
Nurses with a primary state of residence in a NLC state can obtain a multi-state license to practice nursing in all NLC states. Multi-state licenses allow nurses to practice across state borders easily and temporarily in other NLC states.
Timing
Because the licensing procedure can be a bit unpredictable from state to state, we recommend getting a jump on the process ASAP to make sure you’re all set in time for the start of your assignment.
Not sure which license you need?
Use the guide and map below to determine what type of license you may need for your next assignment.
Current Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) States
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, we prioritize matching you to your perfect position and destination, so we offer positions with top facilities in all 50 States. From travel nursing jobs in New York to Alaska, or anywhere else within the United States, Host Healthcare is here to help you find the perfect travel nursing assignment. Click here to view our current open positions.
License regulations vary by state, so before you begin your travel assignment, we'll help you verify which licenses or certifications you will need and will also provide you with personalized assistance for credentialing and licensing.
Only one state can be identified as your Primary State of Residence for Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) purposes. Documents to verify your Primary State of Residence can include, but are not limited to:
- Driver's license with home address
- Voter's registration card with home address
- Federal income tax return declaring state of residence
- W2 from a federal agency, bureau, or division, indicating the declared state of residence
Upon moving to the new Primary State of Residence (PSOR), visit the board of nursing website and complete the application for license by endorsement. You may practice in the new state under the former state multi-state license until the multi-state license in the new Primary State of Residence is issued. Once it is issued, the former state license will be made inactive.
You may not wait until the former license is about to expire before you apply for the license in the new Primary State of Residence.
- Notify the board of nursing in your former state of your new address in the noncompact state. This changes your multi-state license to a single state license.
- If you need a license in the noncompact state, visit the board of nursing website and complete the application for license by endorsement. You may do this prior to moving to the noncompact state.
Recruiters You’ll Love
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Jenny from Host Healthcare was my partner and I's first recruiter when we started traveling, and so far we haven't even considered partnering with anyone else. She is friendly, punctual, and has led us to some fantastic places. The pay is great, we've never felt pressured into anything, and we finally feel like we're working to live instead of living to work. She even goes over and above to make sure we are both comfortable at our new location; I can't say enough good things about her or Host Healthcare.
I have had two different recruiters through Host, both have been wonderful. My current recruiter Elyse is very professional, timely, and always follows up on any questions or concerns I have. The app and time clock are easy to use and the software is user friendly. I chose to work with Host for my first travel assignment and am so glad I did.
Elyse Himmelstein is incredibly responsive, professional, and always goes above and beyond to ensure that her people have a positive experience. She is a great communicator, and I always feel well-informed and prepared when deciding on a contract. Elyse takes the time to listen to my concerns and questions, and is always there to provide support and guidance throughout the entire process. Elyse and Host have been nothing but the best.
