Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) Map 2025: Current States List

Diverse nurses in scrubs standing before a US map highlighting Nurse Licensure Compact member states with certification badges and a tablet displaying licensure information

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) reshapes mobility for U.S. nurses in 2025. This guide explains the current NLC states map, shows how to get a multistate license, and connects licensure details to LPN, RN and specialty certification paths. You’ll also get exam prep tips, license renewal rules, and actionable career ladder steps to plan a flexible nursing career.

How the Nurse Licensure Compact Works and Why It Matters

The landscape of nursing licensure has shifted significantly by the end of 2025. Pennsylvania finally opened its doors to full multistate practice this past July, and Connecticut has moved toward full implementation. If you are looking at the NLC map 2025, you will see a much more connected country than just two years ago. Most states now participate in this agreement, allowing registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to practice across state lines without the headache of multiple applications.

Complete List of NLC Member States in 2025

The following jurisdictions have enacted the Nurse Licensure Compact. While most are fully operational, some recently enacted states may still be finalizing technical steps for issuing licenses. Always verify the current status with your specific board of nursing before starting a new job.

NLC Member States Alphabetical List
Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Guam, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virgin Islands, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.

State Implementation and Issuance Status

Not every state that passes a law starts issuing multistate licenses immediately. There is often a gap between the day a governor signs a bill and the day the board of nursing is ready. This table shows the status of key states as of late 2025.

State Compact Status Multistate License Issuance
Pennsylvania Fully Implemented Started July 7, 2025
Connecticut Implemented Active late 2025
Massachusetts Enacted Implementation in progress
Washington Fully Implemented Active
Rhode Island Fully Implemented Active since Jan 2024
Ohio Fully Implemented Active

How to Check if Your State is in the NLC

You might be asking is my state in the NLC right now. The easiest way to find out is to visit the Nursys jurisdiction list. This database shows exactly when each board last submitted data and confirms if they are active participants. If your state is not on the list, you must hold a single state license for that specific jurisdiction. You can find detailed state board licensing walkthroughs on our site to help you navigate the application process for any member state.

Residency Rules and Moving Between Compact States

Your primary state of residence determines your eligibility for a multistate license. This is defined as the place where you hold a driver’s license, vote, and pay taxes. You can only have one multistate license at a time, and it must be from your home state. If you move from one compact state to another, most boards provide a 60-day window to apply for a new multistate license in your new home state. Once the new license is issued, your old one becomes inactive. If you move to a non-compact state, your multistate license will convert to a single state license, and you will need to apply for individual licenses in any other state where you want to work.

Recent Changes and Pending Legislation

The map is always evolving. Pennsylvania was a major addition in 2025, opening up thousands of opportunities for nurses in the Northeast. Connecticut also completed its rollout this year. Several other states, including Alaska, Michigan, and New York, have seen active bills in their legislatures recently. If you live in one of these areas, keep a close watch on your state board of nursing website, as changes can happen quickly during legislative sessions. We recommend checking our LPN and RN exam prep pages if you are a student preparing to enter the workforce in a newly joined state.

Always verify your license status through Nursys before accepting a travel contract. Employers rely on this data to ensure you have the legal right to practice in a remote state.

Important Reminders for 2025
Check the implementation date if your state recently joined. Verify that your license is actually a multistate version; some nurses in compact states still hold single state licenses because they did not meet uniform requirements, such as a clean background check and a valid social security number. If you are planning a career move, start your application at least 90 days in advance to account for delays in fingerprinting or transcript verification.

Current NLC States Map 2025: Regional Breakdown

The landscape of nursing licensure has shifted significantly as we close out 2025. With Pennsylvania having reached full implementation in July and other states moving through the legislative pipeline, the map for multistate practice is more robust than ever. As of late December 2025, 43 jurisdictions have enacted the Nurse Licensure Compact. This growth means that for the majority of nurses in the United States, the path to practicing across state lines is becoming the standard rather than the exception. Knowing exactly where your state stands is the first step in planning a career that might involve travel nursing, telehealth, or a simple move across a border.

The 2025 NLC Member List by Region

Northeast Region
The Northeast has seen the most recent activity. Pennsylvania fully implemented the compact on July 7, 2025, which opened up massive opportunities for nurses in the tri-state area. Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Rhode Island are long-standing members. Rhode Island notably updated its implementation status in early 2024. Connecticut and Massachusetts have enacted the legislation and are currently in the implementation phase. New Jersey remains a key member, though nurses there should always check the latest board updates for specific multistate issuance rules.

Southern Region
The South remains the most unified block in the compact. Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia all issue multistate licenses. This regional consistency is why many travel nurses begin their careers in the South. The rules here are well-established, and the boards of nursing have streamlined the process for verifying primary state of residence.

Midwest Region
In the Midwest, the NLC is the norm for most states. Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Indiana are all active members. Michigan has seen significant legislative movement recently. For nurses in this region, the ability to work in neighboring states is vital for rural healthcare delivery and staffing in major hubs like Chicago or Indianapolis.

Western Region
The West continues to expand its participation. Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, Wyoming, and Washington are all part of the compact. Texas remains one of the largest hubs for multistate license holders. Territories like Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands have also enacted the compact, though implementation timelines for these areas can vary. Always verify the current status with the NCSBN NLC Map before accepting a contract in a territory.

Step by Step Pathways from LPN RN to Specialty Certifications and License Renewal

Moving through the nursing ranks requires a solid plan for education as well as licensing. The multistate license acts as a foundation for this growth, allowing you to take on travel assignments or remote telehealth roles while you pursue higher degrees. If you are starting as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), your first major milestone is the bridge to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN). Most LPN to RN programs take between twelve and twenty-four months. You will need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to transition. Holding a multistate license during this time is helpful if you live near state lines or plan to move for a specific bridge program.

Pathways to Advanced Practice

RN to BSN and Beyond
Once you are an RN, the next step is often a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Many online programs allow you to finish in twelve to eighteen months. From there, you might look toward a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These advanced degrees lead to roles like Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist. While the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) covers your RN license, it does not currently grant multistate prescriptive authority for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). You must still meet specific state rules for prescribing medication in every state where you practice. You can track the latest updates on these rules through the NURSECOMPACT website.

Specialty Certification Tracks

Critical Care and Emergency Nursing
Specialty certifications prove your expertise in specific clinical areas. For critical care, the CCRN credential from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) is the standard. You need 1,750 hours of direct care with acutely ill patients to sit for the exam. For emergency nurses, the CEN exam through the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN) is the goal. Most nurses spend three to six months studying for these exams using question banks like UWorld or Kaplan. A typical study plan involves doing fifty practice questions a day as well as reviewing the rationales for every wrong answer.

Oncology and Perioperative Care
Oncology nurses often pursue the OCN credential from the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC). This requires 2,000 hours of oncology practice. Perioperative nurses look for the CNOR certification. This exam focuses on surgical settings and requires two years of experience. These certifications often lead to higher pay as well as leadership roles. When you hold a multistate license, these certifications are recognized by employers across all compact states, making you a highly competitive candidate for travel contracts.

License Renewal and Maintenance

NLC vs Single State Rules
Renewing a multistate license happens through your home state board of nursing. You must follow the continuing education (CE) requirements of your primary state of residence. For example, Pennsylvania fully implemented the NLC on July 7, 2025, and nurses there must follow specific state rules for child abuse recognition training as part of their renewal. If you move your primary residence to a new compact state, you have a window, usually thirty to sixty days, to apply for a new multistate license. You can find the specific timelines for each jurisdiction on the NLC Map provided by the NCSBN.

Dealing with Encumbrance
If your license becomes encumbered due to disciplinary action, you lose your multistate privileges. Your license may convert to a single-state license that only allows you to practice in your home state. Maintaining an unencumbered license is vital for career mobility. Always check your status on Nursys to ensure your multistate eligibility is active before accepting a job in another state.

Sample Career Ladder and Costs

The following table outlines the estimated time as well as the financial investment for each stage of the nursing career ladder. These figures vary based on whether you choose public or private institutions.

Career Step Typical Duration Estimated Cost Range
LPN/LVN Certificate 12 to 18 Months $3,000 to $15,000
LPN to RN (ADN) 12 to 24 Months $6,000 to $20,000
RN to BSN 12 to 18 Months $10,000 to $30,000
MSN (Advanced Practice) 18 to 24 Months $20,000 to $50,000
DNP (Doctorate) 2 to 4 Years $40,000 to $100,000

Exam Preparation and Strategy

Study Resources and Schedules
Success on the NCLEX or specialty exams depends on consistent practice. Use reputable question banks that offer detailed explanations. A twelve-week study schedule is usually effective. Spend the first four weeks reviewing core content. Spend the next six weeks focusing on practice questions. Use the final two weeks for full-length simulation exams to build stamina. On test day, arrive early as well as bring two forms of identification. Focus on the question at hand rather than worrying about the previous one.

Nursing Career Planning Checklist

  • Verify your home state residency documents like a driver’s license or tax filings.
  • Check your current license status on Nursys to confirm multistate privileges.
  • Identify the specialty certification that aligns with your clinical goals.
  • Log your clinical hours to meet exam prerequisites for CCRN, OCN, or CNOR.
  • Set a calendar reminder for your license renewal date at least ninety days in advance.
  • Research the CE requirements for your specific state through the Pennsylvania Department of State or your local board.
  • Update your resume with new certifications as well as advanced degrees.

Frequently Asked Questions About NLC Multistate Licenses and Certification

What states are in the NLC right now?

As of late 2025, the Nurse Licensure Compact includes 43 jurisdictions that have passed the necessary laws. Most of these states are fully active. Pennsylvania is a recent addition to the active list, having finished its full implementation on July 7, 2025. Other states like Washington and Rhode Island are also fully operational. Some states like Connecticut and Massachusetts have signed the laws but are still setting up their computer systems. You can find the most current list on the Nurse Licensure Compact website. It is important to check this map before you plan a move. Some territories like Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands are in the process of joining too and might have limited practice rules while they finish their technical setup.

How do I get a multistate license?

You must meet several specific requirements to qualify. First, your primary state of residence must be a member of the compact. You cannot get a multistate license if you live in a non-compact state like California or New York. You must hold an active nursing license without any disciplinary actions. Passing the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN is a requirement. You also need to pass a federal criminal background check, which usually involves submitting fingerprints. Your state board will verify your social security number as well. If you already have a single state license in a compact state, you can usually apply to upgrade it by paying a fee and waiting for the board to verify your residency.

Can LPNs or LVNs hold a multistate license?

Yes. The compact covers both Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses (or Licensed Vocational Nurses). The rules for LPNs are the same as those for RNs: you must live in a compact state, have passed the NCLEX-PN, and your license must be in good standing. Most compact states include both license types in their laws, though a few states might have different implementation dates for each type. Having this license allows LPNs to work in home health or travel assignments across state lines easily.

How does residency affect my license?

Residency is the most important factor for the NLC. You can only have one multistate license at a time, and it must come from your primary state of residence (where you pay taxes, hold a driver’s license, and vote). If you move to a new compact state, you must apply for a new license, typically within 60 days. Once the new state issues your license, your old one becomes inactive. If you move to a non-compact state, your multistate privileges cease, and your license will turn into a single state license for your former home.

What happens if my license is encumbered?

An encumbered license is one with active disciplinary action, such as probation or suspension. If your license is encumbered, you lose your multistate privileges immediately and will only be allowed to practice in your home state. The board of nursing will update your status in the Nursys system, flagging it for other states. You cannot apply for a multistate license until the discipline is cleared. Even after it is cleared, some states have strict rules about past felonies and you might be restricted to a single state license.

Can I practice telehealth across compact states?

Telehealth is a major benefit of the compact. If you have a multistate license, you can provide care to patients in any other compact state without a separate license. However, you must follow the laws of the state where the patient is located, including rules about scope of practice. If a patient is in a non-compact state, you still need a license from that specific state. Always document the location of your patient during every call or video visit to protect your authority to practice.

Do APRNs use the NLC for prescriptive authority?

No. The eNLC only covers RNs and LPNs. Advanced Practice Registered Nurses have a different set of rules. There is a separate APRN Compact, but it has very few states in it right now. If you are a Nurse Practitioner, you still need to get a license in every state where you practice, including authority to write prescriptions. Each state has different rules for how much independence an APRN has; some require a collaborative agreement with a doctor while others allow full practice authority.

How do I renew a multistate license?

You renew your license through your home state board of nursing following their specific schedule and fees. As long as you keep your home state license active and clean, your multistate privileges stay active. You do not need to renew with the other compact states. If you forget to renew your home license, you cannot practice in any state. You can verify your current expiration date on the Nursys website at any time.

How does the NLC affect continuing education requirements?

You only need to meet the continuing education requirements of your home state. You do not have to worry about the CE requirements of the other compact states where you work, which simplifies things for travel nurses. However, you must still follow the practice laws of the state where you are working. Some states might require a specific course on child abuse or opioid safety to work in their facilities. Even if it is not required for your license renewal, an employer might require it for your job.

What resources verify a state’s compact status?

The most reliable source is the NCSBN NLC Map, which is updated whenever a law changes. You should also check the website of the specific state board of nursing for implementation dates. Another great tool is the Nursys system, which shows which boards are sharing data in real time. You should check these resources at least once a month if you are looking for jobs, as laws can move quickly through state legislatures.

Troubleshooting Common NLC Problems

Delayed Fingerprint Results
Many nurses face delays when getting their background checks, often due to unclear fingerprints. Use a professional vendor like Fieldprint if your state allows it. If your results are taking more than three weeks, contact the board of nursing to check for mismatches in your social security number or name.

Moving Between Compact States
A common mistake is waiting too long to apply for a new license after moving. You should start the application as soon as you have a permanent address. Do not wait for your old license to expire. If you miss the 60 day window, you might lose your ability to work. Keep copies of your lease or utility bills to prove your new residency.

Disciplinary Flags
If you have a minor mark on your record, it might not stop you from getting a single state license, but it can stop a multistate license due to strict uniform requirements. If you are denied, you can usually appeal, potentially providing extra letters of recommendation or proof of completed courses. Be honest on your application to avoid being flagged for fraud.

Conclusions and Next Steps for Nurses Planning Their Certification and Mobility

The landscape of nursing mobility has changed significantly this year. With Pennsylvania fully joining the ranks in July 2025 and states like Connecticut moving through their implementation phases, the map is more connected than ever. You now have access to over 40 jurisdictions with a single multistate license. This means you can move between participating states for travel assignments or telehealth without the headache of multiple applications. The core of this system remains the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact, which standardizes requirements so that patients receive safe care regardless of state lines. You can find the most recent updates on the official Nurse Compact website to see how these changes affect your specific region.

Verifying Your Current Status

Your first move should always be a visit to the official NCSBN website. Laws change and boards update their systems frequently. Even if a state passed legislation last year, the board might still be setting up the background check infrastructure. Use the official NLC map to see if your state is green for fully implemented or yellow for enacted but waiting. If you live in a non-compact state, you can still hold multiple single-state licenses, but you will not have the multistate privilege that comes with living in a compact jurisdiction. Checking the Nursys jurisdiction list is another reliable way to see if your board is actively sharing data with the compact system.

The Residency Factor

Residency is the most important part of the equation. You must declare a primary state of residence to get a multistate license. This is usually where you pay taxes, vote, or hold a driver’s license. If you move your permanent home to a new compact state, you have a limited window to apply for a new license. Pennsylvania gives you 60 days to complete this transition, though other states might have different timelines. If you move to a non-compact state, your multistate license will likely turn into a single-state license for your former home. You can find specific details on the Pennsylvania Department of State NLC page regarding how they handle these residency shifts.

Planning Your Education and Certification

If you are an LPN looking to bridge to an RN role, start your planning now. Most bridge programs take 12 to 24 months. Passing the NCLEX-RN is a requirement for an RN multistate license. For those already working as RNs, specialty certifications add immense value. Certifications like the CCRN or OCN prove your expertise in high-stakes environments. These often require specific practice hours, usually around 1,750 hours in your specialty area. Choosing a certification based on your long-term career goals will make you more competitive in the multistate job market.

Practical Checklist for Moving Nurses

Verify Home State Status
Confirm your current state is an active NLC member and issues multistate licenses.

Gather Residency Documents
Collect your tax returns, voter registration, or utility bills to prove your primary residence.

Check License Encumbrances
Ensure your license is active and has no disciplinary actions against it.

Schedule Fingerprinting
Contact the state-approved vendor to complete your federal criminal background check.

Verify NCLEX Records
Confirm that your NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN results are properly recorded in the national database.

Update Contact Information
Make sure your current board of nursing has your correct mailing and email address.

Costs and Timelines for Planning

Budgeting is a necessary part of the process. Application fees for multistate licenses usually fall between 50 and 200 dollars. Background checks and fingerprints add another 50 to 100 dollars. If you are taking the NCLEX, remember the registration fee through Pearson VUE. Most boards take 7 to 90 days to process an application. Fingerprint results usually come back within three weeks. Start your application at least three months before you plan to start a new job to avoid delays.

Expense Type Estimated Cost Range Frequency
Multistate Application Fee $50 to $200 Initial and Renewal
Background Check and Fingerprints $50 to $100 Initial Application
NCLEX Registration Fee $200 Per Attempt
Specialty Certification Exam $250 to $400 Every 3 to 5 Years

Advanced Practice and Telehealth Considerations

Nurses practicing telehealth from their home state to patients in remote compact states must follow the laws of the state where the patient is located. This is a critical rule to remember. While the eNLC covers RNs and LPNs, it does not cover prescriptive authority for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. APRNs must look into the separate APRN Compact if they wish to practice across state lines without additional licenses. Always document the location of your patient during every telehealth encounter to ensure you are staying within the legal scope of that jurisdiction.

Next Steps for Career Growth

If your case involves past disciplinary actions or complex residency issues, contact your state board directly. They are the final authority on your specific situation. For those looking to stay ahead, subscribe to updates from the NCSBN to receive alerts on new states joining the compact. You can also find detailed guides on our site for LPN to RN bridge programs and specialty exam prep courses. We have a printable NLC states checklist available for download to keep in your career folder. Taking these steps now will ensure you are ready for the mobility opportunities that 2026 will bring.

Explore our full directory of specialty certification guides and exam prep resources to find your next career ladder step. Download our printable NLC states checklist to track your progress toward a multistate nursing license.

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