How to get a Compact License

Updated:   Published

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Hi Nurse Beth,

I would like to know what would be the best course for me in getting my Compact license. I was initially licensed in Alabama as RN but could not find a job there. I ended up back in Florida and received my Florida License. I am looking for an opportunity to do travel nursing. Do you have any input on my chances of getting a compact license from Alabama? Thank you.

Dear Wants Compact License,

Multi-state licensure allows a nurse licensed in a compact state to practice across state lines in any of the other 33 compact states. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) keeps a list of current compact states https://www.NCSBN.org/nurse-licensure-compact.htm

To obtain an RN compact license under the enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC) you must:

  • reside in a compact state that is your primary state of residence
  • be actively licensed as an RN 
  • meet any licensure requirements in your home state

Because your primary state of residence is Florida, you must obtain your multi-state licensure from the Florida BON. This will allow you to practice in Alabama and all other compact states.

If your primary state of residence were Alabama, you would obtain your multi-state licensure from the Alabama BON.

Start with the Florida BON. Apply for a multi-license state license. There is a $100.00 application fee. Complete the application, and...that's it!

Now you can easily take a travel job in any of the compact states.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

2
Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Dialysis.
On 11/2/2020 at 8:27 AM, Nurse Beth said:

Hi Nurse Beth,

I would like to know what would be the best course for me in getting my Compact license. I was initially licensed in Alabama as RN but could not find a job there. I ended up back in Florida and received my Florida License. I am looking for an opportunity to do travel nursing. Do you have any input on my chances of getting a compact license from Alabama? Thank you.

Dear Wants Compact License,

Multi-state licensure allows a nurse licensed in a compact state to practice across state lines in any of the other 33 compact states. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) keeps a list of current compact states https://www.NCSBN.org/nurse-licensure-compact.htm

To obtain an RN compact license under the enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC) you must:

  • reside in a compact state that is your primary state of residence
  • be actively licensed as an RN 
  • meet any licensure requirements in your home state

Because your primary state of residence is Florida, you must obtain your multi-state licensure from the Florida BON. This will allow you to practice in Alabama and all other compact states.

If your primary state of residence were Alabama, you would obtain your multi-state licensure from the Alabama BON.

Start with the Florida BON. Apply for a multi-license state license. There is a $100.00 application fee. Complete the application, and...that's it!

Now you can easily take a travel job in any of the compact states.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

And make sure that you understand the nurse practice act of any state that you travel to work. Good luck, have fun!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion