Applying For RN Jobs In A Different State...

[sofla98]

We have to move. Long story short, we've decided to move across the country. We prefer to move out west but haven't decided exactly where yet. We've got it narrowed down to Oregon, Colorado, California and possibly even Texas.

My question is this...If I come across a job posting that I feel I am a good fit for and apply, will the nurse recruiters/HR even look at me if I do not yet have a license in that state? Nursing licenses are $$$ and I don't want to go through all that work and money and not end up finding a decent job.

My current RN license is active and unencumbered. I have my BSN, over 16 years experience at the bedside and I currently work for a nationally ranked facility. I've never faced any disciplinary action and have great references, solid work history, etc.

I'd like to have a job lined up before we move. I have considered making the "big move" easier by taking a travel assignment, but that scares the snot out of me, lol. I cannot imagine getting pulled every day (or even 2-3 times a shift!), getting the heaviest assignments, etc. I've done quite a bit of research and while a travel position would make the transition easier, it just doesn't appeal to me.

Any advice is appreciated! Thanks!!

[llg, PhD, RN]

You can make the initial contact without a license in that state ... just say that you are in the process of getting the application materials together ... but many places won't actually offer you a job until after you move there and they can interview you face-to-face. They want to see that you are committed to living there (and are likely to stay a while) before giving you a job.

[sofla98]

Thank you for your input.

This is a big decision but an adventure. We are excited to be starting a new chapter but I am very hesitant to move without having a job or a legit offer in hand.

As far as an interview goes, I could fly out. For the right one, lol...