Transfer License

[Valley of the Sun]

I have an active LPN license in AZ. I may be going to Tx. What does it take to get my license there?

[TazziRN, RN]

If AZ is not a compact state, you contact the TX BON and apply for reciprocity. If it is a compact state, you don't have to do anything.

[CinderMelly]

TX is a compact state.

[mom2michael, MSN, RN, NP]

AZ and TX both appear to participate in the NLC so it appears you have to do nothing.

Contact either SBON to verify.

Here is a link. https://www.ncsbn.org/158.htm

[suzanne4, RN]

If you are moving your residence from AZ, then the compact part of that license will fail to exist. Note that it states right on the license to notify them if you move. Your license will remain active for AZ until it expires. You will need to follow the procedure for License by Endorsement to the Texas Board of Nursing.

And actually, nursing licenses do not have reciprocity, only the NCLEX exams do. There is no application for reciprocity, that only existed back when each state had their own individual state boards. Since the advent of NCLEX exams which is a national exam, there is no more reciprocity. You will need to meet the requirements of the new state, it is not an automatic thing.

Your compact license thru AZ only remains active if you are just doing a travel assignment in Texas, and maintain your residence that you have in AZ. Only under that case. And please read the specifics for the Compact License, there are many strict policies in place that need to be followed if you move.

Please make sure that you have a license before you begin to practice in Texas.

And please note: Compact Licenses were designed primarily for those that lived on the border with another state, not to have to go thru a separate procedure to work in that state, and for nurses taking travel assignments. There is no mention of it continuing to exist if you move, this is where many make a mistake and then find themselves in hot water later on.