What to do with other state license?

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What to do with other state license?

Hello I have two license's  in two different states, I won't be using one of them, and wondering what do I do with it? Do I just let it expire? Is there something else I can do? 

10 Answers

Specializes in Geriatrics, Dialysis.

Of course rules and regulations vary from state to state so look at the expired license/renewal requirements for the state license you aren't using so you'll know what you need to do if you ever need to reactivate your license in that state, it will be on their BON website somewhere.  

 I was licensed in 2 states and wasn't using my secondary license so I just let it expire. About 2 years later it turned out I was going to use it again and I just had to pay a small renewal fee.  

Specializes in Dialysis.

Just let it expire

If you are a registered nurse (RN) and you have moved to a new state, you will need to transfer your RN license to your new state. Here are the general steps to follow:

1. **Research the requirements of your new state**: Each state has its own licensing requirements, so it's important to research the specific requirements of your new state's board of nursing.

2. **Apply for licensure by endorsement**: You will need to apply for licensure by endorsement in your new state. This means that you will need to provide documentation of your current RN license, as well as other forms of identification and proof of residency.

3. **Complete any additional requirements**: Depending on the state, you may need to complete additional requirements, such as a background check or continuing education courses.

4. **Wait for your new license**: The process of transferring your RN license can take anywhere from 8-12 weeks. Once your application has been approved, you will receive your new RN license from your new state's board of nursing.

It's important to note that if you hold a multi-state license, also known as a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) license, you may be able to practice in multiple states without having to transfer your license. The NLC streamlines the process significantly, allowing you to work in a number of states without having to go through the process of obtaining a new license each time.

It's recommended to apply for licensure at least two months in advance of your move to ensure that there are no hiccups in the process.

Specializes in Nurse Attorney.

It depends on the state.  Some states issue licenses for the LIFETIME of the licensee so you remain licensed there whether you renew or not.  Talk to a nurse attorney in the state you no longer plan to practice in.  Even if it is "expired" - if it is a LIFETIME license you are still held to the rules there regarding self-reporting, updating your contact info, etc.

EdieBrous said:

It depends on the state.  Some states issue licenses for the LIFETIME of the licensee so you remain licensed there whether you renew or not.  Talk to a nurse attorney in the state you no longer plan to practice in.  Even if it is "expired" - if it is a LIFETIME license you are still held to the rules there regarding self-reporting, updating your contact info, etc.

Which states issue the license for the lifetime of the licensee, regardless of whether it is renewed? 

Specializes in Nurse Attorney.

New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey are my states and they are all lifetime states.  There are others but I don't practice there.   For example, here is what NY says in its FAQs:

What is the difference between "licensure" and "registration"?

In New York State, upon satisfaction of eligibility requirements, a professional license is awarded. Licensure is for life unless suspended, revoked, or annulled for reasons of misconduct. To practice any profession in New York, a licensee must be currently registered. Registration is generally for a three-year period. As a New York State licensed professional, you will be required to renew your registration every two to three years, depending on your profession's registration requirements.

 

https://www.op.nysed.gov/about/frequently-asked-questions

Some states like NC have an option to put your license in 'inactive' status instead of 'expired' so it's easier to renew (I think there's a $45 fee). I don't know if its a scam to make you pay more money or if it actually makes the renewal process easier (I.e. fewer fingerprints).

EdieBrous said:

New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey are my states and they are all lifetime states.  There are others but I don't practice there.   For example, here is what NY says in its FAQs:

What is the difference between "licensure" and "registration"?

This seems to be the practice in every state I've been licensed in.  I've let licenses lapse or go inactive, and later reactivated them as needed.  It might be my lay understanding, but I don't see a difference.

Thank you for the explanation.

Specializes in Nurse Leader specializing in Labor & Delivery.

At one point, when I was doing interim leadership (like travel nursing, but for managers), I had licenses in 6 states. I have since let all of them lapse except the one I'm currently using. Too damn expensive to renew them every 2 years. I kinda wish I had kept California active, though, since it took so freaking long to get it.

Yes, just keep it inactive. 

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