This article explains compact nursing licenses and their benefits. Nurses residing in a compact state can obtain a multistate license, allowing them to work in other compact states without additional licensure. It also covers what nurses in non-compact states need to do and the process for transferring a compact license after relocating. Additionally, it provides guidance on managing state-specific requirements for nurses working in multiple states, including assigning unit assignments via file upload or manually. The article includes an interactive map of compact states, a unit file template, and instructions for locating Organization and Facility IDs.
What is the nursing license compact?
The nursing license compact can be one of the most confusing topics related to licensure. Under this agreement, nurses can practice in other compact states without needing to obtain additional licenses.
What does this mean actually?
In accordance with the nursing compact, a nurse can be issued a multi-state compact license if they declare a compact state as their primary state of residence. This would allow you to work in other compact license states without getting additional licensure.
What if the nurse lives in a non-compact license state?
Nurses residing in non-compact states can apply for a single-state license in a compact state to practice there.
What if the nurse has a compact license from another state?
The nursing compact requires nurses to apply for licensure in their new state of residence upon relocation.
How do I know which states are compact?
This link has an interactive map that contains all compact states, and those pending a compact status. Map of Current Compact License States
What if a nurse works in multiple states? How can the requirement policy trigger a rule for each state?
Great question! To trigger state-specific requirements for a nurse working in multiple states, assign multiple unit assignments to the provider. This can be done in two ways:
- Via file upload: Add additional unit columns (e.g., Unit 2, Unit 3) for each state in a unit file.
- Manually: Navigate to the Unit/History tab after adding the provider and assign the necessary units.
If a unit file is created, keep in mind that you must add all 50 state unit assignments to all facilities. Attached at the bottom of this support article is a unit file template. The Organization ID can be found within the Integration Mappings tab, as well as all the Facility IDs.
Additional resources can be found below: