How to Transfer Nursing License

Transferring your nursing license to another state costs $150-400 and takes 6-14 weeks through endorsement, according to NCSBN data. If both states are NLC compact members, you may not need a new license at all—41 states now participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact.

What are my options for transferring my nursing license?

When you move states, you have two main paths: endorsement or the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Which one applies depends on where you’re coming from and where you’re going.

Endorsement (The Traditional Route)

Most states allow nurses licensed elsewhere to apply for a license through endorsement. This isn’t a “transfer”—you’re applying for a new license, but your existing credentials count toward the requirements.

Typical endorsement requirements include:

Active, unencumbered license in your current state
Verification sent from your original state board
Background check (yes, even if you had one before)
Application fee ($75-200 depending on state)

The Nurse Licensure Compact

If both your current state and destination are NLC members, you may already be covered. A multistate license lets you practice in any compact state without additional applications.

Currently, 41 states participate in the compact. Check our compact guide to see if yours is included.

How do I apply for nursing license endorsement?

1. Verify your current license status

Before anything else, confirm your current license is:

Active and in good standing
Not subject to disciplinary action
Not expired (some states allow recent expirations)

You can usually verify this on your state board’s website.

2. Check destination state requirements

Requirements vary significantly. Some states need:

Specific CE hours completed before application
Proof of recent practice (worked X hours in past Y years)
Additional exams for certain specialties

Check our state guides for exact requirements in your destination state.

3. Request license verification

Your new state needs official verification from your current state. This usually happens through:

Nursys: Most states use this automated system ($30 fee)
Direct verification: Some states still require mailed forms

Start this early—verification can take 2-4 weeks.

4. Complete the background check

Most states require a new background check, even if you had one for your original license. Expect:

Fingerprinting ($50-100)
FBI and state criminal history check
2-4 weeks processing time

5. Submit your application

Once you have verification in progress and background check scheduled, submit your application. Include:

Completed application form
Application fee
Proof of education (transcripts if required)
Any state-specific documentation

How long does nursing license endorsement take?

According to NCSBN data and state board processing reports, here’s what to expect:

Step	Typical Duration
License verification (Nursys)	2-4 weeks
Background check	2-4 weeks
Application review	2-6 weeks
Total	6-14 weeks

Start the process 2-3 months before your planned move. Some states offer temporary permits while your application processes—check with your destination board.

What mistakes should I avoid when transferring my nursing license?

Letting your current license lapse: Keep it active until your new license is issued. Gaps can complicate applications.

Assuming compact covers you: If you’re moving permanently, you need to update your primary state of residence even with a compact license.

Waiting until you move: Start the endorsement process while you’re still in your current state. It’s much easier to handle fingerprinting and paperwork before you relocate.

Key Takeaways

Endorsement lets you use your existing credentials in a new state
NLC membership may eliminate the need for endorsement entirely
Start the process 2-3 months before your planned move
Keep your current license active until the new one is issued

Ready to see what your destination state requires? Use our reciprocity checker to compare requirements, or browse all state guides for detailed information.