NJ License or California license?

[thejetsetnurse]

Right now I live in NJ, but I am in the process of applying to both NJ and California new grad programs. A lot of the California programs start in July or August. I'm not too sure when the NJ ones start. I'm debating on which license I should apply to first and then possibly get an endorsement for the second. I know the BON for both states are kind of slow when it comes to licenses, so if anyone can give me some advice I'd really appreciate it!

[JMCP]

Stay in your home state, apply there and get your license there. Its the most economical thing to do. In California, the market is tough and it will take you a good 3months to a year to get a job. Assuming you know someone or work at the hospital that you're applying to (in which case you know someone), it will take you about 3 months to get that job. If you know no one and think you can just waltz into a job via the online application process, you're going to be in for a tough time. It will take you months (closer to a year) to find anything.

if you have the money to wait a year than by all means move here. its a great place to be a nurse.

[JMCP]

also keep in mind that aside from a couple of hospitals such as UCLA, Cedars, County (Los Angeles), most hospitals start new grads at around the high 20's/hr. That is so similar to NJ that i don't see any benefit in moving here.

[caliotter3]

Is NJ your home state? Do you intend to always return there? You should get your initial license in the state that you intend to be your home state, unless you are planning to make a permanent change.

[thejetsetnurse]

Yes, NJ is my home state. I'm applying to new grad programs in California and I'm worried that if I get the lucky chance to be accepted that my license will not come in on time. Thank you both for the responses!

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

CA offers an interim permit (not sure if it's only for CA grads) whereas NJ does not