Acting Attorney General Andrew J. Bruck and the Division of Consumer Affairs today announced the full implementation of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing New Jersey nurses who meet certain requirements to obtain a single license to practice in every state that participates in the program.
The NLC is an agreement between states that gives registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and vocational nurses (VNs) the ability to apply for a multistate license to work in their home state and other member states.
New Jersey joins 37 other jurisdictions that participate in the NLC, affording nurses an easier way to provide services through telehealth or in-person throughout the country.
New applicants for licensure who meet the requirements will be issued a multistate license once they complete the application process.
Current licensees who wish to obtain a multistate license can apply online for an upgrade.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw firsthand that having the tools and ability to mobilize qualified healthcare staff is critical during a public healthcare crisis,” Acting Attorney General Andrew Bruck said.
“This action by the Board of Nursing and the Division of Consumer Affairs will expand access to care and ensure that nurses have ample employment opportunities and can practice where they are needed most.”
“Nurses provide crucial care that often requires them to travel across state lines,” Sean P. Neafsey, Acting Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs, said.
“We are proud to be part of the solution when it comes to emergency preparedness and facilitating greater access to healthcare.”
Uniform requirements to obtain a multistate nursing license in New Jersey or any NLC participating state include:
- Meeting the requirements for licensure in the state of residency
- Passing an NCLEX-RN, NCLEX-PN, or predecessor exam
- Having a valid Social Security number
- Submitting to a state and federal fingerprint-based criminal background check
- Having no state or federal felony convictions
- Currently not participating in an alternative to discipline program such as RAMP or PAP
Applicants seeking a multistate license who do not meet all NLC requirements may still be issued a single state New Jersey license if they meet the requirements for licensure in the State.
For more information about the Nurse License Compact and FAQs, click here.