APRN Compact Benefits Guide
How the APRN Compact will save NPs, CNMs, CRNAs, and CNSs thousands of dollars and dozens of hours compared to maintaining multiple single-state APRN licenses.
APRN Compact Not Yet Operational
The APRN Compact requires 7 states to enact before becoming active. Currently 5 states have enacted. Benefits below will apply once the compact is operational. Track progress
Cost Comparison
| Cost Item | Without Compact | With APRN Compact |
|---|---|---|
| Initial APRN license application | $200-400 | $200-400 (home state only) |
| Background check | $50-100 per state | $50-100 (one time) |
| License verification | $30-50 per state | $0 |
| Biennial renewal | $100-300 per state | $100-300 (home state only) |
| Collaborative agreement updates | Per state requirements | Home state only |
Real-World Savings Scenarios
Telehealth NP (8 states)
Nurse Practitioner
Without Compact
Initial: $1,600-3,200
Annual: $800-2,400
Time: 40+ hours
With Compact
Initial: $200-400
Annual: $100-300
Time: 3-4 hours
Estimated Savings: $2,100-5,300/year
Locum Tenens CRNA (5 states)
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
Without Compact
Initial: $1,000-2,000
Annual: $500-1,500
Time: 25+ hours
With Compact
Initial: $200-400
Annual: $100-300
Time: 3-4 hours
Estimated Savings: $1,100-2,800/year
CNM Serving Border Communities (3 states)
Certified Nurse Midwife
Without Compact
Initial: $600-1,200
Annual: $300-900
Time: 15+ hours
With Compact
Initial: $200-400
Annual: $100-300
Time: 3-4 hours
Estimated Savings: $500-1,500/year
Travel CNS (6 states)
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Without Compact
Initial: $1,200-2,400
Annual: $600-1,800
Time: 30+ hours
With Compact
Initial: $200-400
Annual: $100-300
Time: 3-4 hours
Estimated Savings: $1,300-3,500/year
Who Benefits Most
Telehealth APRNs
Provide virtual care to patients across multiple states without managing separate licenses for each state. Essential for expanding telehealth practices.
Locum Tenens/Travel APRNs
Take temporary assignments across state lines without weeks of licensing delays. Accept opportunities faster and work more consistently.
Rural Healthcare Providers
Serve underserved communities that span state borders. Critical for states with healthcare deserts and limited APRN access.
Disaster Response APRNs
Respond immediately to emergencies in other states. No waiting for emergency license waivers or temporary permits.
Border State APRNs
Live in one state while practicing in neighboring states. Common for APRNs near state borders with multiple practice opportunities.
Military Spouse APRNs
Maintain career continuity during relocations. No need to re-license when PCS orders move you to a new compact state.
Important: Prescriptive Authority
The APRN Compact does not standardize prescriptive authority across states. When practicing in a remote state under the compact:
- You must follow that state's prescriptive authority requirements
- DEA registration requirements vary by state
- Controlled substance prescribing rules differ by state
- Some states may require collaborative agreements
Always verify the prescriptive authority requirements of any state where you plan to practice.
Time Savings
Beyond direct cost savings, the APRN Compact eliminates hours of administrative work for each additional state license:
Application paperwork per state
Gathering transcripts, verification forms, and documentation
Processing time per state
Waiting for license approval before you can practice
Renewal management per state
Tracking deadlines, CE requirements, and renewal applications
With the APRN Compact: Manage one license, one renewal cycle, and one set of CE requirements—regardless of how many compact states you practice in.
Related Resources
APRN Compact Guide
Complete overview of the APRN Compact, requirements, and current status.
APRN Compact States
Track which states have enacted the compact and pending legislation.
APRN Licensing Guide
Overview of all four APRN roles and their licensing requirements.
NP License Guide
Nurse Practitioner licensing requirements by state.
NLC Compact Guide
Learn about the Nurse Licensure Compact for RNs and LPNs.
Telehealth Licensing
Multi-state licensing requirements for telehealth nursing practice.
Stay Updated on APRN Compact Progress
The APRN Compact is 2 states away from activation. Track progress and learn how to prepare for multistate APRN licensing.
APRN Compact Overview