Applying for jobs in another compact state.

[KJ87, BSN, RN]

I live in Virginia and was issued my RN license in the Commonwealth of Virginia, but there are more job opportunities in North Carolina, another compact state. I have a really hard time filling out some of the applications though because the question will specifically ask if I have a license issued through the NC Board of Nursing. Am I supposed to answer yes even thought my VA license was issued through the VABON?

[elkpark]

Just tell them you have a VA license. NC employers know about the NLC (compact). You don't have a licensed issued by NC, so you would be lying to answer that you do.

I'm not used to seeing questions about whether you have a license from (a particular state) -- usually, applications just ask what state(s) you're licensed in.

[KJ87, BSN, RN]

On some of the job applications online they'll ask you to list any licenses and certifications you have, or some will ask "Do you have a current, unsuspended RN license issued by the NC Board of Nursing?" And some only give you the option to list your license as being issued by NCBON. So I'll just have to answer no or leave the license field blank? I just wasn't sure about that. I knew it would be lying to answer yes or choose the options they listed, but I thought answering no would make it seem like I don't have a license at all and therefore wouldn't be considered. :/

Thank you so much for replying, I just needed some clarification on this. :)

[elkpark]

If the only option is do you have a license issued by the NCBON, yes or no, the answer is no. However, I have always included my CV with on-line applications (there is usually an option for uploading your resume'/CV, and I also always include a cover letter) and have my licensure information on my CV. That is another option.

Best wishes!

[nurseprnRN, BSN, RN]

elkpark is right. Don't give them a reason to reject you out of hand just because they haven't updated their application forms since the Eisenhower administration. :) Let them know that you have a valid, unrestricted license from VA. Also call the NC BoN and ask them if there is something particular you need to do to practice in NC; there probably isn't, but if there is, do it.

[KJ87, BSN, RN]

Great advice GrnTea. Thank you and elkpark both for your responses, I appreciate it very much!

[SubSippi]

I got a job in NC, and applied from out of state. I remember seeing that kind of thing on an application, and said that I didn't have an NC license. I still got interviews from all three places I applied to, and two job offers. I didn't schedule the third interview because I knew I'd rather take one of the other jobs. The job market in NC is good, I don't think you should worry about being out of state.

[KJ87, BSN, RN]

You're right about the job market in NC, SubSippi. Thank you for posting, this is very encouraging! Congratulations on your job offers, woot woot!