To practice nursing in any state requires a current, active nursing license. Each state has its own laws that govern the way in which licensure is achieved. PPR Healthcare Staffing has developed a guide to assist nurses in obtaining information necessary to become licensed in any state in which the nurse wishes to practice. The information serves as a guide, but you should contact the appropriate Board of Nursing in order to obtain the latest and most accurate requirements. Websites, addresses, and telephone numbers are provided so you can contact the needed Board directly with your questions. PPR does reimburse the cost of licensure once the license has been granted.
Canadian Nurses must have a VISA SCREEN to work in the US. In order to obtain a VISA SCREEN, the nurse must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Information about how to obtain the Visa Screen can be found at www.cgfns.org . In addition to the Visa Screen, the employer must issue a letter stating the individual will work as a nurse in the U.S.
Over twenty states are now part of the Nursing Licensure Compact. In order to hold a compact license, the nurse’s permanent address must be in a state that is a member of the compact. The license must be designated as having the multistate privilege. Once a nurse holds a compact license, all licenses held in other compact states must be surrendered. A nurse may only hold one compact license and that must be in the state that in which the nurse claims permanent residency. To view the current compact states, go to: https://www.ncsbn.org/158.htm.
Helpful Hints:
- Most all states now offer online renewal of a licensure. Follow the link to the website of the State Board and check their online services.
- All fees are subject to change. Contact the Board to find out the exact fee required or check out the application link for more information.
- Apply as soon as you know where you are going. Some states take little time to process a temporary work permit and some take up to 6 weeks,
It is very important that you read the endorsement application thoroughly and submit everything the Board requests. The majority of delays in receiving a license are due to missing or incomplete paperwork. |
