RN pocket size license for NY?

MunoRN, RN · Aug 13, 2017

I haven't heard of having to carry a physical copy of your license, in my state such a thing isn't even available. Usually a nursing license isn't so much a physical thing as it is a number and a history associated with that license (renewals, duration licensed, action against license, etc)

Scottishtape · Aug 13, 2017

Where I am, they send a large paper license and on the side there's a small wallet sized license to carry that you tear off.

I've always had to have it with me down here. When I was in Missouri, they actually sent me a hard plastic wallet sized license. It was pretty cool.

I don't think it's realistic to carry around the large one. I would *assume* that if they don't offer you a wallet size one, they don't expect you to carry it.

You could always just bring it in for your organization to make a copy for your file and then take it back home.

quiltynurse56, LPN, LVN · Aug 16, 2017

I have three licenses and only have a card for one of them. It is my understanding that many states are forgoing the cards. I have not had to present a copy for any jobs either. Gave them my numbers and they verified either through the BON or Nursys.com

adventure_rn, MSN, NP · Aug 20, 2017

Not familiar with NY, but I know the states where I've worked have phased them out in favor of electronic verification. BLS and NRP are phasing out paper cards, too. It seems that most states have an 'e-verify' system where you can literally search for a person's licensure status with their name and license number.

Wuzzie · Aug 20, 2017

We don't get them anymore. Everything is verified on-line. In my 30+ years of nursing I've never been asked to show my license to anyone but my employer and now I don't even have to do that. Nobody has ever requested I show it even in emergency situations out in public. Personally, I'm just as glad to not have a card. Too many opportunities for it to get lost and in the wrong hands.