Question about licensure

[hiddencatRN, BSN, RN]

Maybe this is a dumb question, but.... I know once you have a license in one state you can apply for licensure by endorsement in other states, but is it possible to initially apply for a license after taking with more than one state at a time after taking the NCLEX? We're moving to wherever I get a job after I graduate, and looking at a lot of postings, it looks like it's best to already be licensed in that state before applying.

[solneeshka, BSN, RN]

You have to tell the folks who administer the NCLEX the state to which you want your results to be sent, and you can only choose one. So you do need to make a choice before you sit for the exam. Getting licensed in a different state is not a big deal, though, and my impression is that employers don't really get hung up on this. Most positions posted say you have to have a license in that state or be eligible to get one, which you are if you pass the NCLEX. Just go with the state you think is most likely!

[hiddencatRN, BSN, RN]

Ah, ok. Thanks!

[AugustRain]

If you're applying outside of the state where you have your license, you can double check the requirements with that state's BON.

Before I interviewed out of state, I made sure that I met all of the criteria, knew which states allowed a temporary permit, etc so I could tell the nurse managers that I was definitely eligible for endorsement.

Hospitals are used to out of state applicants, so it likely won't be an issue.

[elkpark]

If you're applying outside of the state where you have your license, you can double check the requirements with that state's BON.

Before I interviewed out of state, I made sure that I met all of the criteria, knew which states allowed a temporary permit, etc so I could tell the nurse managers that I was definitely eligible for endorsement.

Hospitals are used to out of state applicants, so it likely won't be an issue.

:yeahthat:

Employers are very accustomed to dealing with out-of-state applicants who aren't actually licensed yet, and it's not big deal. I've been in that situation both times I moved to other states, and none of the people who interviewed me batted an eye or raised a question. No point in paying the hefty fees for "extra" licenses -- wait until you know for sure where you're going, and then apply for licensure there (only).