changing licenses in compact states

[Wolfe24]

Hi everyone,

I'm looking to move and was wondering if anyone knew of the procedure to get a new license for another state. Both the state I am licensed in now and the one I want to move to are part of the licensure compact act. I've looked online, on both of the state's boards of nursing and on the ncsbn website, but I'm still very confused on what I need to do.

Also, I'm applying to jobs in my new state and was wondering if I need to be licensed in that state before I apply, or if they will still offer me a job and then let me change my license after that. I need my current license to work here until I get a new job.

Thanks for any help!!!

[Jolie, BSN]

Whether or not you need a new license depends upon where you live, not where you work.

For example, if you live in NC and have a compact license, you can continue to live in NC and work in any compact state as a "border crosser" or a traveler. But if you move from NC to SC, you must then apply for a SC license. Most compact states allow a 30 day grace period, during which they will allow you to work on the compact license issued by your old home state if you have moved, but I'm not sure if that is universal, so check with the BON.

BTW, applying for a new state license does not inactivate your current one. You will hold 2 licenses, and must keep each current, or place the unused one inactive.

[Wolfe24]

Thanks! Yes, I'm going to be moving into the other state. I just can't seem to figure out how to apply for a whole new license in the new state. I'll call the BON on Monday.

Thanks for your advice, that really clarifies things!

[highlandlass1592, BSN, RN]

If you are already licensed, you aren't applying "for a whole new license". You are applying for licensure by reciprocity. You should be able to go the to the new BON's website to find out how to do that...probably can download the app right online.