will HR shot me down for no WV license?

rnforforty · Nov 23, 2014

Shouldn't. Usually not a problem as long as you are eligible for licensure in the state. Back BC (before computers) it could take six weeks or more to get reciprocity. Much faster now.

firstinfamily, RN · Nov 23, 2014

Are WV and PA compact states? If so then you should not really have to apply for another license. Communicate with your BON in WV to see what the process is. I live on the MD/PA line but work in MD, so I have not tried to get a PA license. I have heard from other nurses that PA requires a non-compact license, but I am not sure. Good Luck!!! Most applications ask if you have a valid license in the state where the job is.

rnforforty · Nov 23, 2014

No. For some exceedingly bizarre reason WV is not in the compact. I wrote to the BON asking why we did not join since we sit like an isolated island smack dab in the middle of the compact states, and the answer was, 'security'??????? What the H does that mean??? After 9/11 I participated in a state wide group whose focus was dealing with out of state nurses coming in to WV to aid during disasters. The question was how to verify their nursing license. My suggestion at that time was a compact with neighboring states. I was visualizing a license with our info and picture, sort of like our drivers license and that the DMV could be part of the process - same picture, etc. But nothing seemed to come of it. But everyone around us came up with that very solution and ran with it. And as usual, WV sits here with its head in the sand.

Altra, BSN, RN · Nov 23, 2014

PA is not a compact state.

Read the job description carefully, OP. HR practices vary: some will proceed with screening an otherwise qualified applicant with the understanding that in-state licensure is pending, some will not.

And per the TOS, please watch the text-speak, as it can make posts more difficult to read. Thank you and good luck in your Job Search!

Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN · Nov 23, 2014

FurBabyMom, MSN, RN · Nov 23, 2014

It shouldn't. I lived on the other end of WV, in KY. I was licensed in OH and KY at the time, I was offered a position at a WV hospital. I simply had to have my temporary endorsement permit prior to starting orientation. The hospital was leery of that, because they don't like that in WV (some) new grads get a temporary permit and then fail NCLEX and mess with staffing/orientation. All I had to do was prove I was fully licensed in another state and the WV board was processing the full status application and I was good to go. It took a little while before my full license was issued, but it was well before the temporary license expired. I think hospitals are (generally) more leery of folks who haven't passed NCLEX anywhere than anyone who has to endorse a license from state to state. I've applied for (and gotten) three jobs without a license in the state I'd end up working in, and put in my cover letter/on my resume that if considered for a position I would be willing to relocate and obtain requisite licensure.