Multi-state license

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Hi everyone.

This is my first semester in nursing school (accelerated BS-MSN). I'm from California, and I moved to Maryland to attend nursing school. I'm still a CA resident, and I don't plan to change residency as I would like to return to CA to practice. So I'm thinking far ahead when I take my NCLEX. MD is one of the compact states, but CA is not. Does anyone know how it will work out for me? So will I be taking NCLEX in MD even though I won't be a MD resident? If I do get a MD RN license, how will I obtain a license in CA?

Please provide as many information as you know because my professor had no idea about it (not very helpful).

Thank you so much! I look forward to reading all your comments.

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If you know for sure you are going to return to CA, skip MD licensure entirely and apply for initial licensure in CA. You can physically sit the NCLEX in Maryland (you can take the exam at any location that is convenient for you, and your results will go to the state to which you have applied for licensure). You can go to nursing school in whatever state you choose, and apply for licensure in whichever state you wish. Compact status has nothing to do with this. Best wishes!

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

If you are a CA resident and get a MD license you would be issued a single state license only valid in MD. Compact/multi state license is only available to legal residents of the compact state.

If you are returning to CA upon graduation you are just wasting time & money applying for a MD license and then applying to CA for endorsement.

In your case apply to CABRN for an initial nursing license by examination

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