Applying for out of state jobs as a new grad

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okay so here is my question, I graduated with a BSN in December and now have a CA license but am still having zero luck landing even an interview in the bay area. I understand its a tough job market and am totally up for relocating.Maybe I am being too picky but I would really prefer to stay in the northwest, however when I go to apply for jobs in Oregon, Washington etc they all say you are required to have a valid license in that state. So anyone have any tips on how to get in as an out of state applicant? I can't really afford to go and get licensed in three states and I guess after all the rejection out here I am a little wary of pinning all my hopes on just one location. Just frustrated and looking for any advice...thanks again

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IMO, I would continue to apply for positions that intrest you in your state and others. I would not seek licensure in any other state until at least you have had an interview. I recently moved from one state to another and did not get my new states license until I had a position lined up. As long as you have a temporary license on day one of work, you should be ok. It took about 2 weeks to get my temporary license and my regular license followed in another 6 or so weeks. I think I paid a $10 fee for the temporary license.

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Specializes in Surgical ICU, Anesthesia.

I was just hired for an out-of-state position and it requires that state license, however. They didn't required that I had it for the interview. During the interview, I stressed that the decision to move to that state had already been made. I think the hospitals required that you have that state license, but now until you're employed not for the interview.

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Specializes in Geriatrics, Home Health.

I interviewed for RN jobs in 4 different states. The first question anyone asked me was "Have you passed the NCLEX?" In MA, you're not a nurse until you have a license. Things were much easier after I passed the NCLEX.

I got a job in Vermont. As far as I know, getting a 90-day temporary license is a matter of going to Montpelier with a completed application, $150, and a copy of my RN license. I guess I'll find out Monday.

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Specializes in Acute Care Psych, DNP Student.
I interviewed for RN jobs in 4 different states. The first question anyone asked me was "Have you passed the NCLEX?" In MA, you're not a nurse until you have a license. Things were much easier after I passed the NCLEX.

I got a job in Vermont. As far as I know, getting a 90-day temporary license is a matter of going to Montpelier with a completed application, $150, and a copy of my RN license. I guess I'll find out Monday.

Could you report back to us what happens? Vermont is one state I'm thinking of.

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Specializes in NICU, Post-partum.

Most jobs have the following disclosure worded something like, "Must have a valid (insert state name here) RN license, or eligible."

Keyword is eligible.

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Specializes in ACLS.

I am also interested in applying out of state. I am from NY and it is almost impossible to find a job if you're mother is not the head of human resources. I was thinking of looking into PA, FL, NJ. Did anyone mention in their cover letters that they are willing to relocate and get the appropriate license or was it not mentioned at all? I am so unsure of how to go about applying out of state!

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