Your Guide to Compact State Licensure as a New Graduate

So, you’ve just graduated from nursing school, congrats! Now, you’re probably wondering how to get licensed, start your career, and maybe even work in different states. If that’s you, this guide on the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) is just what you need. Let’s dive in and simplify things!

What is the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)?

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) is an agreement that allows registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/VNs) to practice nursing in multiple states with just one license. If you’re a new graduate hoping to work across different states or explore telehealth opportunities, understanding the NLC will give you a huge advantage.

With an NLC multistate license, you can practice in any of the participating states once you’re licensed in your home state (also called the “primary state of residence” or PSOR). So, if you live in a state that’s part of the NLC, you can work in any of the other participating states, no need for multiple licenses! Check out the list of NLC states here.

Why the NLC is Great for New Graduates

The NLC is a fantastic option for nurses fresh out of school because it offers a lot of flexibility:

• Easier job search: With a multistate license, you can apply for nursing jobs in other compact states without needing to go through the hassle of applying for a new license in each state.

• More opportunities: Want to become a travel nurse or explore telehealth? A multistate license makes it simple to jump into those roles and start working right away.

• Save time and money: By having just one license to practice in multiple states, you avoid the time and costs associated with getting licensed in each state individually.

Compact States vs. Non-Compact States

Compact States:

These are the states that participate in the NLC. If you get your license in one of these states, it will allow you to practice in all other compact states without having to apply for a separate license. This makes it easy to move between states or work in different locations.

Non-Compact States:

In these states, the NLC agreement doesn’t apply. If you want to work in a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for a separate license in that state. For example, if you graduate in New York (a non-compact state) but want to work in Texas (a compact state), you’ll need to apply for a Texas license, but that license will allow you to work in other NLC states too. However, if you want to work in California (another non-compact state), you’ll need a separate California license.

How to Find Out if Your State is Part of the NLC

Forty states are full members of the NLC as of September 2026, but some of the largest, California, New York, Illinois, Oregon, Hawaii, Minnesota, Nevada and Alaska, are not, and Massachusetts has enacted the compact but not yet implemented it. Check if your state is a member in our blog post.

How to Apply for a Multistate License

The process of applying for your multistate license might seem a little confusing at first, but don’t worry, I’ve broken it down into easy steps for you.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

First, make sure your home state (PSOR) is part of the NLC. If it is, you’re eligible for a multistate license. If not, you can still apply for a license in a compact state, but it will be a single-state license.

Step 2: Apply for Licensure by Exam

After confirming your eligibility, you’ll need to apply for licensure by exam. This means submitting an application to the Board of Nursing in your PSOR (or the state where you plan to work). For new graduates, this usually means applying for licensure in the state where you plan to take your NCLEX exam.

Step 3: Gather Your Documents

To complete your application, you’ll need to submit the following documents:

Proof of graduation from an accredited nursing school (transcripts or diploma).
Authorization to Test (ATT), which allows you to sit for the NCLEX exam.
A fingerprint-based criminal background check (requirements vary by state).

Step 4: Take the NCLEX Exam

Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll receive your Authorization to Test (ATT), which you’ll need to book your NCLEX exam. You can take the NCLEX in any state, regardless of where you applied for licensure. After passing the exam, you’ll be issued a multistate or single-state license, depending on your eligibility.

Step 5: Temporary Licenses

In some states, you can apply for a temporary or “limited purpose” license while waiting for your full multistate license. This allows you to start working right away. Check with the Board of Nursing in your state to see if this option is available.

Tips for a Smooth Application Process

Start Early: Begin your licensure application as soon as you’re close to graduation to give yourself plenty of time for processing.
Stay Organized: Keep track of deadlines, documents, and fees. Submitting incomplete or late materials can delay your application.
Look for Temporary Licenses: If you’re eager to start working, check whether your state offers temporary licenses while your full license is being processed.

The transition from student to nurse can be stressful, especially if you’re planning to move to a new state. The NLC helps make that transition smoother by allowing you to work in multiple states with just one license. This flexibility can be a lifesaver for new grads who want to explore travel nursing or take advantage of job opportunities in different states.

Comprehensive List of U.S. State Nursing Boards with Official Website Links (checked September 2026)

Frequently asked questions

Can a new graduate get a multistate nursing license?

Yes, if your primary state of residence is a compact state. Apply for licensure by examination in that state; once you pass the NCLEX and meet the uniform licensure requirements, the license issued is a multistate license valid in all 40 NLC states.

Do I have to take the NCLEX in the state where I want to be licensed?

No. The NCLEX is a national exam and can be taken at any testing center. Your results go to the board of nursing where you applied for licensure and Authorization to Test.

I went to nursing school in a non-compact state but am moving to a compact state. Where do I apply?

Apply in the compact state you are moving to, your new primary state of residence, not the state where your program was. You will need to establish residency there (driver's license, voter registration) to be eligible for the multistate license.

Which states are not in the Nurse Licensure Compact?

As of September 2026: Alaska, California, Hawaii, Illinois, Minnesota, Nevada, New York and Oregon have no NLC legislation pending; Massachusetts has enacted the compact but not yet implemented it; the District of Columbia and Michigan have bills pending.