License Reciprocacy

[SJP11]

Hi! I am torn between getting my RN license in CA and then applying for reciprocity in Massachusetts where I am set to move in the next couple months. The reciprocacy/ ATT process is very quick in MA from what I hear and I am planning on moving back to CA in 2-3 years, but never know how I will like moving to a new city.

There is a small possibility I end up staying in CA and not making the move if the job opportunities available in MA aren't in line with what I'm looking for as a new grad RN. Can anyone explain this process and maybe steer me? If I was to get my license in CA and get reciprocacy in MA would my license technically be valid in both states? Thanks so much for your time reading this!! 

[NICU Guy, BSN, RN]

You should get your initial license in the state you plan on living in post-graduation. From the posts on this site, getting a Mass license will be far quicker than California. You can have as many state licenses as you want, as long as you keep paying the fees and complete the CEUs. 

If you get your California license, but move to Mass. you will be paying for both a California license (plus background check/fingerprints) and a Mass license (plus background check/fingerprints). If you stay in Mass for 2 years, you will need to pay for your California license renewal. If you are definitely moving to Mass after graduation, get a Mass. license by exam and wait to get your Calif. license until you are within 3-6 months of moving back.

10 hours ago, SJP11 said:

There is a small possibility I end up staying in CA and not making the move if the job opportunities available in MA aren't in line with what I'm looking for as a new grad RN.

I am going to guess that there are more opportunities for new grads in Mass than there are in California.