NLC Cost Savings Guide
One license fee for 43 states. See how the Nurse Licensure Compact can save you thousands of dollars compared to maintaining multiple single-state licenses.
The Multi-State License Cost Problem
Before the NLC, nurses who wanted to work in multiple states faced significant financial burdens. Each state required its own license, its own fees, and its own renewal schedule.
Typical Single-State License Costs
| Cost Item | Per State | With NLC |
|---|---|---|
| Initial license application | $150-300 | $150-300 (home state only) |
| Background check | $30-75 per state | $30-75 (one time) |
| License verification (Nursys) | $30 per state | $0 |
| Biennial renewal | $75-200 per state | $75-200 (home state only) |
| CE tracking | Multiple requirements | One state's requirements |
Real-World Savings Scenarios
Travel Nurse (5 states)
Without NLC
With NLC
Telehealth Nurse (10 states)
Without NLC
With NLC
Border State Nurse (2 states)
Without NLC
With NLC
The Hidden Value: Time Savings
Money isn't the only cost. Each additional state license means more administrative burden that takes time away from your career and personal life.
Per-State Administrative Tasks
- Complete application forms (1-2 hours)
- Request license verification (30 min)
- Schedule fingerprinting appointment (1-2 hours)
- Follow up on application status (30 min - hours)
- Track renewal deadlines (ongoing)
- Complete state-specific CE requirements (varies)
NLC Simplifies Everything
- One application through your home state
- One background check covers all states
- One renewal date to remember
- One set of CE requirements from home state
- Instant authorization in 43 states
Who Benefits Most from NLC Savings?
Travel Nurses
Take assignments in any compact state without additional fees or wait times. Switch facilities seamlessly.
Travel nursing guide →Telehealth Nurses
Serve patients across 43 states with one license. Essential for nurse triage lines and remote monitoring.
Telehealth guide →Border State Nurses
Live in one state, work in another. Common for nurses near state lines or in metro areas spanning multiple states.
NLC compact guide →Disaster Response Nurses
Respond immediately when emergencies strike. No waiting for emergency waivers or temporary permits.
Disaster response guide →What About Non-Compact States?
The NLC covers 43 states, but some high-population states like California and New York are not members. If you need to practice in these states, you'll still need separate licenses.
Non-Compact States (as of 2024)
Even with these states requiring separate licenses, the NLC still saves significant money by covering the other 43 states with one license.
Start Saving with the NLC
Check if your state is part of the compact and see how much you could save with a multistate license.