Streamlined Nursing License: Your Guide to States, Application, and Processing Times
The Nurse Compact License (eNLC) allows nurses to practice across multiple states with a single license. Learn about requirements, participating states, and how to apply.
The Nurse Compact License
Requirements for a nurse compact license are similar across states. However, each state may determine and vary its own licensure requirements.
The states that participate in the compact have agreed that the licensing requirements in the individual states are compliant with their own licensing requirements. Therefore, these states allow you to work in their state without any additional licensing.
Nurse Compact License Requirements
Understanding the eligibility criteria and requirements for obtaining a compact license
Who's Eligible?
Currently, the Compact license is available for LPNs and RNs. Additionally, there is current legislation attempting to provide a compact for Advance Practice Nurses.
According to NCSBN, The following are necessary in order to qualify for a Compact License:
- Legally reside in an NLC state
You must establish your primary state of residence in a participating compact state
- Hold an active RN or LPN/VN nursing license in good standing
APRNs are not included in this compact
- Declare an NLC state as your primary state of residency
Your home state must be a participating compact state
- Meet the licensure requirements in your home state
Each state may have additional requirements. Check each state board's website for details
Which States Participate in the Compact?
Over the years, the nurse compact license has evolved. Now referred to as the eNLC. There are currently 43 states that have passed legislation as of August 7, 2025.
NLC States
Click on any state to learn more about their specific requirements
Pending States
- Massachusetts
Pending implementation
- Guam
Pending tentative implementation in 2023. Nurses holding a multistate license in other NLC states may now practice in Guam. Guam residents cannot obtain a multistate license until implementation is complete.
- Virgin Islands
NLC enacted Dec. 6, 2021. Pending tentative implementation in 2023. Criminal background checks must also be implemented. VI residents cannot obtain a multistate license until implementation is completed. Nurses in other NLC states with a multistate license may not practice in the Virgin Islands until implementation is complete.
Additional Reading
Helpful resources to learn more about the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact
What Travel RNs Need to Know
Learn about the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact and what it means for travel nurses.
State Spotlight: Iowa
Discover travel nursing opportunities and requirements in Iowa.
RN License Timeline
Understand the timeline and process for obtaining your RN license.
Important Note: All information on this page was obtained via nurse.org. Please check back often for updates as the compact continues to evolve.