Since its launch in 2000, the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) has made it easier for nurses to work across state borders without needing multiple state licenses. This agreement between compact states gives nurses more freedom and mobility.
In 2018, the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC) was introduced to upgrade the NLC by establishing uniform licensure standards, including comprehensive state and federal background checks. Curious about which states are part of the compact and how the eNLC can benefit you? Continue reading!
Nursing Compact States
(As of December 2025):
- 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
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
*Law passed and pending implementation
How to Verify Your Compact State Nursing License
To check if you have a compact nursing license, use the Nursys Quick Confirm tool. It shows whether your license is single-state or multi-state. If it’s multi-state, you can work in other compact states. Otherwise, you’ll need that state’s individual license.
Note: If you have a license from a compact state but don’t live there permanently, you won’t have a compact license. Permanent residency in the compact state is required.
Compact Nursing License Benefits for Travel Nurses
- Reduced licensing expenses—before the eNLC, travel nurses faced high costs for multiple state licenses. The eNLC simplifies this, making travel nursing more affordable with a compact state nursing license.
- Expanded job opportunities—an eNLC license opens up numerous locations for travel assignments, increasing flexibility and access to telehealth positions across member states.
- Smooth job transitions—for travel nurses frequently on the move, a compact state nursing license ensures seamless transitions between assignments, minimizing downtime.
Standard Licensing Criteria in Compact States
Nurses aiming to work in compact states must meet 11 standard criteria, though states maintain their specific licensing regulations. These criteria guarantee a consistent standard of competency and safety in all compact states.
- Meets home state licensure requirements
- Graduated from a board-approved or recognized international program
- English proficiency verified if necessary
- Passed NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN exams
- Holds an active, unencumbered license or is eligible for one
- Completed federal and state fingerprint background checks
- No felony convictions at state or federal level
- No misdemeanors impacting nursing practice
- Not participating in an alternative program
- Must disclose any participation in alternative programs
- Has a valid Social Security Number
Non-Participating Nursing Compact States
(As of December 2025)
- Alaska
- California
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- New York
- Nevada
While these states are not part of the Nursing Compact, legislative changes could alter their status. Joining the compact would simplify the licensure process for nurses, boosting career mobility and flexibility. The benefits and challenges of compact membership are frequently discussed among health professionals and policymakers. As states evaluate joining, it’s essential for nurses to engage in these discussions. Contact your state representatives and nursing board to advocate for compact membership and stay updated on developments in your state.
Stay informed about states considering joining the eNLC:
- Official Nurse Licensure Compact Website
- Twitter—@NurseCompact
- Facebook—Nurse Licensure Compact
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing
- Nursys e-Notify
For your next compact state job opportunity, reach out to your Triage recruiter or explore our travel nurse jobs.