moving to another state

[jungdt]

hello everyone,

i could really use your guidance! i'm a CA resident and i have CA RN license. looks like my husband will be taking a job in Maryland. i have no idea where to start. do i look for a new job in MD first? do i have to take NCLEX again in MD? how to i get MD license? when do i tell my boss that i'm leaving? i feel overwhelmed. i have no clue where to start. any help would be greatly appreciated. thanks!

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

Starting with the BON of the state you are moving to is a good first step. NCLEX is a once and done test. You do not need to retake it in every state in which you apply for a license. Instead, you apply for a license by endorsement. Some states may have requirements that you need to complete before they will issue the license.

MD License by Endorsement online application.

[jungdt]

thank you for your reply. during the endorsement process, i can still work in CA?

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

As long as you continue to maintain an active CA license. Generally, endorsing a license doesn't cause it to become invalid in its current state. Rather, you have licenses in both.

[RNsRWe, ASN, RN]

You ought to have a valid license for MD before you think too much on the job hunt; you can only be hired contingent up on getting that license anyway.

If you got a CA license through any unusual means (not completing the appropriate nursing school program but rather 'testing out'), you aren't likely to be eligible for another State's license.

However, if you did the "usual" thing---nursing school, passed NCLEX, obtained license----it's usually just a matter of submitting proper application paperwork, fingerprints, proof of CE's, and fees--and then you get a shiny new license.

Good luck.