Can i be a licensed rn in 2 states?

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Okay so I plan to move to Texas a little while after completing my RN boards. I'm just wondering if it's possible to be licensed in California and also be licensed in Texas this way, if I ever need to, just move back and not have to worry about having to transfer my license. If so please advise on how?

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Specializes in Med-Surg, Geriatrics, Wound Care.

Yes, you can be licensed in 2 (or more) states. Just make sure your addresses are updated in both. If you have a compact state, you can only get that in the state you live in (permanent resident). When you move, you get license by endorsement.

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Okay so I plan to move to Texas a little while after completing my RN boards. I'm just wondering if it's possible to be licensed in California and also be licensed in Texas this way, if I ever need to, just move back and not have to worry about having to transfer my license. If so please advise on how?

Yes, you can be licensed in every state at the same time if you'd like to be. It just gets expensive, because you're paying licensing fees for each state.

If you're planning to work in Texas for a while, it might be better to hold off on the California license. California takes a long time to process, though ...so do apply 3-4 months before you plan to start job-seeking in CA.

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Specializes in mental health / psychiatic nursing.

Yes, I live in a border region between two states and it is not unusual for nurses to be licensed in both for the additional work opportunities.

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Specializes in NICU, ICU, PICU, Academia.

I'm licensed in five states currently for my job with an online university. Thank goodness I don't have to pay all those fees- it gets $pendy!

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