Licensure Guide & Compact States

Licensure Guide

Compare nursing and therapy licensing requirements between states with this interactive guide.

Use the dropdown menus below to make your selections.

Alabama

State Board Website

Compact State:No

Temporary License

License Processing Time:Temporary permit not offered
License Duration:NA

Permanent License

License Processing Time:NA
License Fees (Approx):No fee

Application Information

Please Note: License timeframes, fees, and other information is subject to change. Please refer to the state website for the most up-to-date information.

Alaska

State Board Website

Compact State:No

Temporary License

License Processing Time:See BON website
License Duration:4 months

Permanent License

License Processing Time:2 weeks
License Fees (Approx):$330.00

Application Information

Please Note: License timeframes, fees, and other information is subject to change. Please refer to the state website for the most up-to-date information.

Please Note: License timeframes, fees, and other information is subject to change. Please refer to the state website for the most up-to-date information.

Important Licensing Information

License processing timeframes, fees, and application information is subject to change. Please refer to each state’s website and license application for the most up-to-date and complete licensing information.

Licensing boards across the country may experience longer processing and response times, so it’s important to start the licensure process as early as possible. Giving yourself extra time can help avoid unexpected issues and keep your travel plans on track.

In most cases, you'll need to obtain a license in each state where you plan to work. Depending on your profession, you may be eligible to practice in multiple states through a licensure compact.

Please make your selections above to compare nursing and therapy licensing requirements between states.

Compact States

Compact states make it easier and more affordable for traveling healthcare professionals to practice across state lines. Nursing and therapy compacts share the same goal of increasing workforce mobility, but each operates a little differently.

How to Use the Guide

Select one of the four compacts below to explore participating states, learn how each compact works, and find additional licensure resources.

Nursing

In Nursing, compact states allow Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses (LPNs / LVNs) the ability to apply for a multistate license through their state’s Board of Nursing (BON) if their primary state of residence (PSOR) is a compact state member and they meet uniform licensure requirements.(opens in new tab)
Direct any application questions to the Board of Nursing (BON) in your state.

Additional resources:

Nursing Map