Missouri RN Hoping to Land Job in Florida

[Xandra1219]

I’m currently an RN in Missouri which is a compact license state. I’m hoping to get a job in Florida which is also a compact state. I’m not ready to apply yet because I won’t be able to move for another 2-3 months but I’ve been looking at job postings. Some of the postings say must have current FL license others say must have FL license OR compact license. From what I’ve researched, I would apply for a FL license by endorsement upon moving there and then my MO multi-state License would be in void. I’m afraid to do that now because I’m not ready to move yet and it might mess with my current job if I apply for a FL license. Dose anybody have any experience with this? Will some of these employers not even consider me if I don’t yet have a FL license even though I do have a MO multi-state License? I would appreciate any input.

Thanks

[Swellz]

Whenever you got your MO multi-state license, you were eligible to work in any of the compact states. So, you can work in Florida today, and you don't have to apply for anything right now. When you move and change your residence, you will need to change your license so it is based in FL (so you will have a FL multi-state license rather than MO multi-state license, as you will no longer eligible for a MO multi-state license if your residence is not in MO).

If a job application asks if you have a valid license to work in FL, the answer is yes. You just have to do paperwork and probably pay a fee to the FL BON once you move.

[Swellz]

Also, in the event that you are looking for a MS/tele job in St Pete, send me a PM.

[Xandra1219]

Thanks so much for the reply. It’s a big relief to know that I can just start applying when I’m ready. I’m actually hoping to get out of medsurg and hopefully do something with ob.