Whether you’re applying for your first RN license, renewing your credentials, or preparing for a travel nursing assignment in a new state, this page has you covered. Use this hub to find renewal requirements, CE hours, processing times, fees, and state Board of Nursing resources.
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
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Hawaii
Idaho
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Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
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Michigan
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Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
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North Carolina
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Ohio
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Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
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Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
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Washington
Washington, D.C.
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Every U.S. state requires nurses to renew their license on a regular cycle, most often every 2 years. Renewal keeps your license active and confirms continued clinical competency.
Most renewals include:
Pro Tip: Because CE rules and renewal deadlines vary by state, select your state above to see the exact requirements, fees, and renewal portal links.
If you already have an active license in one state and want to work in another state, apply for a license by endorsement. This is the standard process for nurses relocating or taking travel assignments.
Most endorsement applications require:
Pro Tip: Processing times vary greatly between states. Some take 2-4 weeks, others 10-12 weeks. Monitor your online portal and email for any Board requests to avoid delays.
If you live in an eNLC state, you may be eligible for a multistate license that allows you to practice in other compact states without getting individual licenses.
Compact Benefits:
Travel nurses often maintain multiple active licenses across the country. Planning ahead prevents delays and protects assignment start dates.
Start the endorsement process at least 8 weeks prior to the start date. Boards need time to verify identity documents, get Nursys confirmation, and do background checks. Early submission avoids cancellations or contract delays.
Keep a digital folder with:
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Nurses renew their nursing license online through their state Board of Nursing portal. You’ll confirm your information, attest to completed CE hours, and pay the renewal fee. Select your state above to see renewal requirements and portal links.
Most states renew every two years. Some states have a fixed calendar deadline, while others use a personalized expiration date based on your original issuance. Check your Board portal to confirm your renewal year and deadline.
Fees vary by state and are typically $50 to over $120. Some states impose late fees if a license is renewed after expiration. Select your state above to see exact fees.
Most nursing license renewals submitted online are processed within minutes to a few business days, provided the CE requirements are complete and the application is accurate. Delays can occur if documents are missing or the Board requests additional information.
Most states require 20–30 CE hours every two years, but several states have specific coursework requirements. Always check your state page and keep CE certificates for audit compliance.
Travel nurses either hold a compact nursing license or apply for single-state licenses by endorsement, where they plan to work. Because processing times vary, many travelers keep multiple active licenses.
If a nurse holds a compact multistate license, they can work in other compact states without needing to apply for individual licenses. If an assignment is in a non-compact state—or the nurse’s Primary State of Residence is non-compact—they must obtain a single-state license by endorsement before working there.
