eNLC – What you need to know

Nurse Licensure Compact Changes

Effective January 19, 2018 there will be a change in the current Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC).  26 states have enacted the Enhanced NLC (eNLC) and new states have joined.

So what does that mean for you as a travel nurse?! You can practice nursing in more states with just one license! 

What about my license?

• If you received a NLC multi-state license before July 20, 2017, you are grandfathered into the new program. No further action is required from you at this time. You will be able to practice in any of the 26 eNLC states.
• If you received a NLC multi-state license after July 20, 2017, you will need to apply for an eNLC license. The states in the new eNLC will be sending out info on how to stay compact. Be sure to look for an email or letter with further information!
• If you are in a state that will be part of the new eNLC but wasn't part of the original NLC, you will be required to apply for the new eNLC. Each of these new states, Wyoming, Florida, Georgia, West Virginia, and Oklahoma, will send further information.
• Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Michigan have pending legislation that they hope to pass before January 19, 2018. This legislation would make them part of the new eNLC. Stay up-to-date on this information by checking the eNLC map. 
• If you do not have a multi-state license but want to apply for the eNLC, follow the steps from your state of residence.
• Rhode Island, Colorado, New Mexico, and Wisconsin were in the NLC but are not in the eNLC.  If you have your compact state license in one of these states, you can only use your license in those four states. These four states are like a mini-compact group license! If you want to practice in any eNLC states, you will need to obtain in-state licensure for that state.

To avoid a lapse in Nursing License:

• Anyone working on a compact license from CO, RI, WI or NM will ONLY be able to work in those four states. Note - Rhode Island and Wisconsin are in the process of adding the additional requirements to re-join the eNLC, which could impact or dissolve the mini-compact group.
• Nurses who do not hold a NLC license but reside in one of the eNLC states will need to apply for eNLC licensure.
• A nurse who changes their primary state of residence after the eNLC’s effective date must meet their new resident state’s eNLC requirements to obtain a multi-state license.

Click here to check out a full list of eNLC FAQs. You will also find links to your state board of nursing website where you’ll see the latest information on what you need to know as your state implements the eNLC.