can I practice in another state?

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The nursing program I want to attend is in Florida, accredited by the CCNE and the ACCSC. When I pass the NCLEX, will I be able to take my license to another state? I'm a military spouse and am sure that I will not be staying in Florida. California looks like where I'll end up, but it could be any where..

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Specializes in Acute Care, Rehab, Palliative.

You will need to apply to the BON in the state you are moving to for a license. You need to meet their requirements and pay the fee.

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You have to transfer your license to another state. Usually a fee and some other requirements you need to meet. You have to check with the state you want to move to because all are different.

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So it is possible, but there are hoops. :) thanks for the responses

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I am pretty positiv that if you know for sure that you will be in California, you can go & take your NCLEX there. Usually the BO will just want to make sure you school is accredited or something.

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Specializes in Pedi.

There's no reason to get a license in Florida if you're not going to live there. When you graduate, you can apply for licensure in whichever state you choose. NCLEX is a national exam (NATIONAL Council Licensure Examination). If you know you want to work in California, you simply apply for California license when you apply to take NCLEX. You don't have to physically take NCLEX in California, you can take it wherever you like. You can go to school in Florida and take NCLEX in Texas for licensure in California.

Also, there is no such thing as "transferring" your nursing license. If you have a license in Florida and move to California, you don't "transfer" your license. You apply for licensure by endorsement and then are licensed in both states until you allow one to lapse.

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https://www.usaa.com/inet/pages/advice-military-movingcareerhurdlesspouses?akredirect=true This is a great article about the fact that half of the states have legislation in place to make it easier for military spouses to transfer their licensure to their new state. However, that also means half of the states do not have such legislation in place. This is a common issue for military spouses (of which I am one) whether they be teachers, nurses, or any other professional that requires a state license in order to practice in that state. Before your next PCS, do your research on the state you are going to and begin to get your paperwork prepared ahead of time. Then start the process immediately upon arrival in your new state. And double check whether or not it makes sense to be licensed in Florida before you go. You may find it easier to transfer an existing license from another state; or it may be easier to just start fresh getting your first license in the new state. Just do your research as much in advance as possible (assuming the DoD cuts your spouse's orders more than 6 weeks in advance . . . .hahaha, we can dream right?) so you're prepared.
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awesome information! I feel much more knowledgeable about moving around and getting licensed in different states. Thank you all for the wonderful help!

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Sure you can. Thats how contract Travel nurses do it. Like some of the posters said though, you gotta get Licensed up in those states with their BON.

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