{"id":1708,"date":"2026-02-13T04:45:03","date_gmt":"2026-02-13T04:45:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/?p=1708"},"modified":"2026-05-11T15:44:56","modified_gmt":"2026-05-11T15:44:56","slug":"is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Florida A Compact State For Nursing"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>\n.wfl *{box-sizing:border-box}\n.wfl{font-family:-apple-system,BlinkMacSystemFont,'Segoe UI',sans-serif;color:#2d2d2d;max-width:100%}\n.wfl-lede{border-left:4px solid #22b0cf;padding:18px 24px;margin:0 0 32px;background:#f0fafd;font-size:18px;line-height:1.65;color:#1a4a5a}\n.wfl-stats{display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:12px;margin:0 0 36px}\n.wfl-stat{flex:1 1 140px;background:#faf8f2;border:1px solid #e8e0cc;border-radius:10px;padding:20px 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16px;color:#3d3120}\n.wfl-faq{border:1px solid #e5dece;border-radius:10px;overflow:hidden;margin:18px 0 28px}\n.wfl-faq-item{border-top:1px solid #e5dece;background:#fff}\n.wfl-faq-item:first-child{border-top:none}\n.wfl-faq-q{width:100%;text-align:left;background:none;border:none;cursor:pointer;padding:16px 18px;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:space-between;gap:0;font-size:15.5px;font-weight:700;color:#1a1208;line-height:1.4;font-family:inherit}\n.wfl-faq-q span{flex:1;padding-right:12px}\n.wfl-faq-q:hover{background:#faf8f2}\n.wfl-faq-chevron{width:22px;height:22px;flex-shrink:0;margin-left:auto;border-radius:50%;background:#22b0cf;color:#fff;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center;font-size:14px;transition:transform 0.2s;font-style:normal}\n.wfl-faq-item.open .wfl-faq-chevron{transform:rotate(180deg)}\n.wfl-faq-a{display:none;padding:0 18px 16px;font-size:15px;color:#5a4a2a;line-height:1.7;border-top:1px solid #e5dece}\n.wfl-faq-a p{margin:12px 0 0}\n.wfl-faq-item.open .wfl-faq-a{display:block}\n.wfl-takeaways{list-style:none!important;padding:0!important;margin:14px 0 0!important;display:flex!important;flex-direction:column!important;gap:10px!important;align-items:flex-start!important;width:100%!important;text-align:left!important}\n.wfl-takeaways li{display:flex!important;align-items:center!important;gap:12px!important;font-size:15.5px!important;color:#3d3120!important;line-height:1.55!important;width:100%!important;text-align:left!important;justify-content:flex-start!important}\n.wfl-takeaways .dot{width:8px;height:8px;border-radius:50%;background:#fa8340;flex-shrink:0;margin-top:6px}\n.wfl-cta{background:#faf4e2;border:1px solid #e8ddb8;border-radius:10px;padding:30px 32px;margin:44px 0 0}\n.wfl-cta h3{font-size:22px;font-weight:700;color:#1a1208;margin:0 0 10px;line-height:1.25}\n.wfl-cta p{font-size:15.5px;color:#5a4a2a;margin:0 0 18px}\n.wfl-cta-pills{display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:10px}\n.wfl-btn-primary{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;background:#fa8340;color:#fff;text-decoration:none;font-size:14.5px;font-weight:700;padding:10px 22px;border-radius:6px}\n.wfl-btn-primary:hover{background:#e8340b;color:#fff}\n.wfl-btn-secondary{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;background:transparent;color:#2B8779;border:1.5px solid #22b0cf;text-decoration:none;font-size:14.5px;font-weight:700;padding:9px 22px;border-radius:6px}\n.wfl-btn-secondary:hover{background:#e8f7fb;color:#2B8779}\n.wfl p{font-size:16px;line-height:1.75;color:#3d3120;margin:0 0 18px}\n.wfl a{color:#2B8779;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:1px;text-underline-offset:3px}\n.wfl a:hover{color:#22b0cf}\n@media(max-width:540px){.wfl-move-grid{flex-direction:column}.wfl-stats{gap:8px}.wfl-stat{flex:1 1 calc(50% - 4px)}}\n<\/style>\n<div class=\"wfl\">\n<div class=\"wfl-lede\">If you&#8217;re eyeing a Florida assignment, one question comes first: do you need a separate license, or does your current one cover you? For most nurses in compact states, the answer is good news.<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-stats\">\n<div class=\"wfl-stat\"><span class=\"wfl-stat-val\">Jan 2018<\/span><span class=\"wfl-stat-label\">Florida joined the NLC<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-stat\"><span class=\"wfl-stat-val\">43<\/span><span class=\"wfl-stat-label\">NLC jurisdictions as of 2026<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-stat\"><span class=\"wfl-stat-val\">60 days<\/span><span class=\"wfl-stat-label\">To transfer license after moving to FL<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-stat\"><span class=\"wfl-stat-val\">$100<\/span><span class=\"wfl-stat-label\">Multistate upgrade fee<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-toc\">\n<div class=\"wfl-toc-label\">In this guide<\/div>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"#wfl-s1\">Is Florida a compact state?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#wfl-s2\">When your compact license covers you<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#wfl-s3\">Getting a Florida nursing license<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#wfl-s4\">Upgrading to a multistate license<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#wfl-s5\">What happens when you move<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#wfl-s6\">What travel nurses need to know<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#wfl-s7\">Frequently asked questions<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_84 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#Is_Florida_a_compact_state_for_nursing\" >Is Florida a compact state for nursing?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#When_does_your_compact_license_cover_you_in_Florida\" >When does your compact license cover you in Florida?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#Who_is_not_covered_by_the_NLC\" >Who is not covered by the NLC?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#How_do_you_get_a_Florida_nursing_license_if_you_need_one\" >How do you get a Florida nursing license if you need one?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#Licensure_by_examination_new_graduates\" >Licensure by examination (new graduates)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#Licensure_by_endorsement_currently_licensed_nurses\" >Licensure by endorsement (currently licensed nurses)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#How_do_you_upgrade_a_single-state_Florida_license_to_multistate\" >How do you upgrade a single-state Florida license to multistate?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#Eligibility_requirements\" >Eligibility requirements<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#Step-by-step_upgrade_process\" >Step-by-step upgrade process<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#What_happens_to_your_license_when_you_move\" >What happens to your license when you move?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#Moving_to_Florida_from_another_compact_state\" >Moving to Florida from another compact state<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#Moving_from_Florida_to_a_non-compact_state\" >Moving from Florida to a non-compact state<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#What_do_travel_nurses_need_to_know_about_Florida_nursing_licenses\" >What do travel nurses need to know about Florida nursing licenses?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#Florida_license_renewal_requirements\" >Florida license renewal requirements<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#Why_Florida_is_a_strong_market_for_travel_nurses\" >Why Florida is a strong market for travel nurses<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#Frequently_asked_questions\" >Frequently asked questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/is-florida-a-compact-state-for-nursing\/#Ready_to_find_your_next_Florida_assignment\" >Ready to find your next Florida assignment?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wfl-h2\" id=\"wfl-s1\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Florida_a_compact_state_for_nursing\"><\/span>Is Florida a compact state for nursing?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wfl-rule\"><\/div>\n<p>Yes, Florida is a compact state for nursing. It joined the Nurse Licensure Compact on January 19, 2018, following the passage of House Bill 1061 during the 2016 legislative session. Florida has been a full NLC member since that date.<\/p>\n<p>The NLC is an interstate agreement that lets RNs and LPNs hold one multistate license and practice across all participating jurisdictions. As of 2026, 43 jurisdictions have enacted the compact, covering most of the United States. For a broader overview, see our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/compact-nursing-license\/\">compact nursing license guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wfl-h2\" id=\"wfl-s2\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_does_your_compact_license_cover_you_in_Florida\"><\/span>When does your compact license cover you in Florida?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wfl-rule\"><\/div>\n<p>Your multistate license covers you in Florida when two conditions are met. Your primary state of residence must be an active NLC member, and your license must be current and unencumbered. If both are true, you can take Florida travel nurse assignments without applying for a separate Florida license.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wfl-tip\"><strong>Timeline advantage:<\/strong> Endorsement in Florida can take four to eight weeks or more. A valid compact license removes that wait entirely, letting you move from offer to start date without licensing delays.<\/div>\n<p>One important rule: you must follow Florida&#8217;s nursing practice laws while working there. Your compact license lets you practice in Florida, but Florida&#8217;s scope of practice applies once you&#8217;re on assignment. Your home state&#8217;s rules do not govern what you can do at the bedside in Florida.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wfl-h3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_is_not_covered_by_the_NLC\"><\/span>Who is not covered by the NLC?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Two groups are not covered by the standard NLC. The first is nurses whose primary state of residence is not an NLC member. If you live in California, New York, Oregon, or another non-compact state, your license does not give you multistate privileges. You would need to apply for a Florida license through endorsement.<\/p>\n<p>The second group is APRNs. The NLC covers RNs and LPNs only. Advanced Practice Registered Nurses must obtain individual licenses in each state where they practice. There is a separate APRN Compact in development, but it is distinct from the NLC and not yet broadly implemented.<\/p>\n<hr class=\"wfl\">\n<h2 class=\"wfl-h2\" id=\"wfl-s3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_you_get_a_Florida_nursing_license_if_you_need_one\"><\/span>How do you get a Florida nursing license if you need one?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wfl-rule\"><\/div>\n<p>If your home state is not part of the NLC, you will need to apply for a Florida license directly. The same applies if you are establishing Florida residency for the first time. There are two pathways: licensure by examination for new graduates, and licensure by endorsement for nurses already licensed elsewhere.<\/p>\n<p>For current requirements and step-by-step details, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/resources\/state-licenses\/florida\">Florida nursing license resource page on Wanderly<\/a> is the best place to start.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wfl-h3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Licensure_by_examination_new_graduates\"><\/span>Licensure by examination (new graduates)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"wfl-steps\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step-num\"><span>1<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step-body\"><strong>Submit your online application<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Apply through the Florida Health Source portal at flhealthsource.gov and pay the associated application fee.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step-num\"><span>2<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step-body\"><strong>Send official transcripts<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Your nursing school sends transcripts directly to the Florida Board of Nursing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step-num\"><span>3<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step-body\"><strong>Complete Livescan fingerprinting<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Use a Florida-approved Livescan provider. The Board does not accept hard fingerprint cards.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step-num\"><span>4<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step-body\"><strong>Take the NCLEX<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Once fingerprint results are received, the Board authorizes you to schedule the NCLEX. Florida does not issue a temporary license for new applicants.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-note\"><strong>Processing time:<\/strong> Typically four to eight weeks once all documentation is submitted. The Board processes applications in date order with no guaranteed timeframe.<\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wfl-h3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Licensure_by_endorsement_currently_licensed_nurses\"><\/span>Licensure by endorsement (currently licensed nurses)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Nurses who hold an active, unencumbered license in another U.S. state apply through endorsement. You do not need to retake the NCLEX.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wfl-steps\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step-num\"><span>1<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step-body\"><strong>Submit the endorsement application with fees<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Apply through the Florida Health Source portal with all required documentation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step-num\"><span>2<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step-body\"><strong>Complete Livescan fingerprinting<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Use a Florida-approved Livescan provider. Hard fingerprint cards are not accepted.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step-num\"><span>3<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step-body\"><strong>Submit license verification<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Provide verification from your original state of licensure. If your state participates in Nursys, verification can be submitted electronically.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step-num\"><span>4<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step-body\"><strong>Complete the Prevention of Medical Errors course<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A two-hour course from a Florida Board-approved provider on CEBroker.com is required before your license is issued.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-tip\"><strong>MOBILE endorsement pathway:<\/strong> Florida launched a streamlined MOBILE endorsement in October 2024. To qualify, you must hold an active license, have passed the NCLEX, have practiced at least three of the past four years, and have no NPDB reports or open disciplinary actions.<\/div>\n<hr class=\"wfl\">\n<h2 class=\"wfl-h2\" id=\"wfl-s4\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_you_upgrade_a_single-state_Florida_license_to_multistate\"><\/span>How do you upgrade a single-state Florida license to multistate?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wfl-rule\"><\/div>\n<p>If you already hold a single-state Florida license and Florida is your primary state of residence, you can upgrade to a multistate license. This is less involved than a full endorsement, but there are specific requirements you cannot skip.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wfl-h3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Eligibility_requirements\"><\/span>Eligibility requirements<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul class=\"wfl-checklist\">\n<li><span class=\"wfl-check-icon\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 11 11\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><polyline points=\"2,5.5 4.5,8 9,3\" stroke=\"#fff\" stroke-width=\"1.6\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/><\/svg><\/span>Florida declared as your primary state of residence<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"wfl-check-icon\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 11 11\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><polyline points=\"2,5.5 4.5,8 9,3\" stroke=\"#fff\" stroke-width=\"1.6\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/><\/svg><\/span>Valid, clear, active Florida nursing license<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"wfl-check-icon\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 11 11\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><polyline points=\"2,5.5 4.5,8 9,3\" stroke=\"#fff\" stroke-width=\"1.6\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/><\/svg><\/span>License not under suspension, probation, or supervision<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"wfl-check-icon\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 11 11\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><polyline points=\"2,5.5 4.5,8 9,3\" stroke=\"#fff\" stroke-width=\"1.6\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/><\/svg><\/span>No felony conviction<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"wfl-check-icon\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 11 11\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><polyline points=\"2,5.5 4.5,8 9,3\" stroke=\"#fff\" stroke-width=\"1.6\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/><\/svg><\/span>Not enrolled in the Intervention Project for Nurses or equivalent program<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"wfl-check-icon\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 11 11\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><polyline points=\"2,5.5 4.5,8 9,3\" stroke=\"#fff\" stroke-width=\"1.6\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/><\/svg><\/span>U.S. Social Security number<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"wfl-note\"><strong>Already have a multistate license?<\/strong> If you hold an active NLC multistate license from another compact state and your residence is still there, you are not eligible for a Florida multistate license. Your existing license already covers Florida.<\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wfl-h3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step-by-step_upgrade_process\"><\/span>Step-by-step upgrade process<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"wfl-steps\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step-num\"><span>1<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step-body\"><strong>Complete the upgrade application<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Available at floridasnursing.gov. Pay the $100 upgrade fee.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step-num\"><span>2<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step-body\"><strong>Submit electronic fingerprints<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Use a Florida-approved Livescan provider. Fingerprints cannot be submitted more than 90 days before your application.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step-num\"><span>3<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step-body\"><strong>Submit original-state license verification<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Verify your original state of licensure only, not your current Florida license.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step\">\n<div class=\"wfl-step-num\"><span>4<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-step-body\"><strong>Submit the Declaration of Primary State of Residence<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Included in the upgrade application packet from floridasnursing.gov.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-ori\">Board ORI number: <span>EDOH4420Z<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-tip\"><strong>Processing time:<\/strong> Minimum ten days once the Board receives a complete application. Most applicants receive confirmation in about 30 days. Verify status via the Florida Health Source portal.<\/div>\n<hr class=\"wfl\">\n<h2 class=\"wfl-h2\" id=\"wfl-s5\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_happens_to_your_license_when_you_move\"><\/span>What happens to your license when you move?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wfl-rule\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-move-grid\">\n<div class=\"wfl-move-card into\"><span class=\"wfl-move-icon\">\ud83c\udfe0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Moving_to_Florida_from_another_compact_state\"><\/span>Moving to Florida from another compact state<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Your existing multistate license does not automatically transfer. You must apply for a Florida multistate license within 60 days of establishing residency.<\/p>\n<p>You can continue practicing on your former state&#8217;s license until Florida issues your new one. Once issued, your previous multistate license is deactivated.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"wfl-move-tag\">60-day window \u2014 no grace period<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-move-card out\"><span class=\"wfl-move-icon\">\ud83d\udce6<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Moving_from_Florida_to_a_non-compact_state\"><\/span>Moving from Florida to a non-compact state<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Your multistate license converts to a single-state Florida license. It remains valid for Florida only. You must apply for licensure in your new home state separately.<\/p>\n<p>Check the current NLC map before you relocate to know whether your destination state is a member.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"wfl-move-tag\">Multistate status is lost<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Proof of Florida residency typically includes a driver&#8217;s license, voter registration card, federal income tax return, or a W-2 filed with a Florida address.<\/p>\n<hr class=\"wfl\">\n<h2 class=\"wfl-h2\" id=\"wfl-s6\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_do_travel_nurses_need_to_know_about_Florida_nursing_licenses\"><\/span>What do travel nurses need to know about Florida nursing licenses?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wfl-rule\"><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wfl-h3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Florida_license_renewal_requirements\"><\/span>Florida license renewal requirements<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<table class=\"wfl-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Requirement<\/th>\n<th>Details<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Renewal cycle<\/td>\n<td>Every two years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Renewal dates<\/td>\n<td>April 30 or July 31 (even or odd year \u2014 check your license)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>CE hours required<\/td>\n<td>24 hours per cycle, reported through CEBroker.com<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Mandatory CE<\/td>\n<td>2 hours: Prevention of Medical Errors<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>On-time renewal fee<\/td>\n<td>$75<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Late renewal penalty<\/td>\n<td>Additional $55 (up to 6 months after expiration)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>For guidance on keeping your license current between assignments, see our post on how to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/\">keep your nursing license active when not working<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wfl-h3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Florida_is_a_strong_market_for_travel_nurses\"><\/span>Why Florida is a strong market for travel nurses<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Florida&#8217;s compact membership, year-round contract availability, and high patient volume make it one of the more accessible states for travel nurses. Seasonal population shifts driven by retirees and snowbird migration create consistent staffing demand across much of the year. Hospitals rely on travel nurses to fill those gaps reliably.<\/p>\n<p>Florida also offers a wide range of contract types, including seasonal direct-hospital contracts and float pool assignments across multiple facilities. If you&#8217;re planning your next assignment, browse our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/travel-nursing-in-florida\/\">travel nursing in Florida guide<\/a> or search <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/jobs\/travel\/rn\/med-surg\/florida\">travel nurse jobs in Florida<\/a> directly on Wanderly.<\/p>\n<hr class=\"wfl\">\n<h2 class=\"wfl-h2\" id=\"wfl-s7\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_asked_questions\"><\/span>Frequently asked questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wfl-rule\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-faq\">\n<div class=\"wfl-faq-item\"><button class=\"wfl-faq-q\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><span>Is Florida a compact state for nursing?<\/span><i class=\"wfl-faq-chevron\">&#8964;<\/i><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"wfl-faq-a\">\n<p>Yes. Florida joined the Nurse Licensure Compact on January 19, 2018. Nurses who hold a valid multistate license from another NLC member state can practice in Florida without applying for a separate Florida license.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-faq-item\"><button class=\"wfl-faq-q\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><span>Can I work in Florida with my compact license from another state?<\/span><i class=\"wfl-faq-chevron\">&#8964;<\/i><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"wfl-faq-a\">\n<p>Yes, as long as your primary state of residence is an active NLC member and your multistate license is current and unencumbered. You do not need a separate Florida license. Follow Florida&#8217;s nursing practice laws while working there.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-faq-item\"><button class=\"wfl-faq-q\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><span>Does the NLC cover APRNs?<\/span><i class=\"wfl-faq-chevron\">&#8964;<\/i><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"wfl-faq-a\">\n<p>No. The NLC covers RNs and LPNs only. APRNs must obtain individual licenses in each state where they practice, including Florida.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-faq-item\"><button class=\"wfl-faq-q\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><span>How long does a Florida nursing endorsement take?<\/span><i class=\"wfl-faq-chevron\">&#8964;<\/i><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"wfl-faq-a\">\n<p>The Florida Board of Nursing processes applications in date order with no guaranteed timeframe. Most nurses report receiving their license within four to eight weeks. That timeline assumes all documents are complete, including fingerprint results and license verification from the original state.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-faq-item\"><button class=\"wfl-faq-q\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><span>What does it cost to upgrade to a Florida multistate license?<\/span><i class=\"wfl-faq-chevron\">&#8964;<\/i><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"wfl-faq-a\">\n<p>The upgrade application fee is $100. Fingerprinting costs are separate and typically run $50 to $80 through a Livescan provider, depending on the vendor you use.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wfl-faq-item\"><button class=\"wfl-faq-q\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><span>What happens to my Florida license if I move to a non-compact state?<\/span><i class=\"wfl-faq-chevron\">&#8964;<\/i><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"wfl-faq-a\">\n<p>Your multistate license converts to a single-state Florida license. It remains valid for practice in Florida only. You would need to apply for licensure in your new home state to practice there.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Florida&#8217;s compact membership removes one of the biggest friction points for travel nurses: waiting on a license. If you hold a valid multistate license and your home state is NLC-active, you&#8217;re clear to work in Florida without any additional steps.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s what to remember:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wfl-takeaways\">\n<li><span class=\"dot\"><\/span>Florida joined the NLC in January 2018 and is a full compact member<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"dot\"><\/span>Your multistate license covers Florida as long as your home state is NLC-active and your license is current<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"dot\"><\/span>APRNs and nurses from non-compact states must apply for a Florida license directly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"wfl-cta\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ready_to_find_your_next_Florida_assignment\"><\/span>Ready to find your next Florida assignment?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Wanderly&#8217;s Florida nursing license resource has current requirements in one place. Search open travel nurse jobs and compare pay packages across agencies.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wfl-cta-pills\">\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/jobs\/travel\/rn\/med-surg\/florida\" class=\"wfl-btn-primary\">Browse Florida jobs<\/a><br \/>\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/resources\/state-licenses\/florida\" class=\"wfl-btn-secondary\">FL license resource<\/a>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><script>\ndocument.querySelectorAll('.wfl-faq-q').forEach(function(btn){\n  btn.addEventListener('click',function(){\n    var item=btn.closest('.wfl-faq-item');\n    var isOpen=item.classList.contains('open');\n    document.querySelectorAll('.wfl-faq-item.open').forEach(function(el){\n      el.classList.remove('open');\n      el.querySelector('.wfl-faq-q').setAttribute('aria-expanded','false');\n    });\n    if(!isOpen){item.classList.add('open');btn.setAttribute('aria-expanded','true');}\n  });\n});\n<\/script><\/p>\n<!-- AddThis Advanced Settings generic via filter on the_content --><!-- AddThis Share Buttons generic via filter on the_content -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you&#8217;re eyeing a Florida assignment, one question comes first: do you need a separate license, or does your current one cover you? For most nurses in compact states, the answer is good news. Jan 2018Florida joined the NLC 43NLC jurisdictions as of 2026 60 daysTo transfer license after moving to FL $100Multistate upgrade fee [&hellip;]<!-- AddThis Advanced Settings generic via filter on get_the_excerpt --><!-- AddThis Share Buttons generic via filter on get_the_excerpt --><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":{"author_name":"adlyd","author_description":"","author_user_level":10,"author_avatar":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/755ded5959debd2bf4552fb4e962e8dd10252b87105d0a8855badcfa3455cb03?s=96&r=g"},"featured_media":1709,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[49,520],"tags":[142,143,69],"class_list":["post-1708","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel-nurse-career","category-nurse-licensing","tag-florida","tag-florida-licensing","tag-licensure"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Untitled-design-10.png","author_info":{"display_name":"Adlyd","author_link":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/author\/adlyd\/"},"featured_image":{"size_thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Untitled-design-10-150x150.png","size_medium":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Untitled-design-10-300x225.png","size_large":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Untitled-design-10-1024x768.png","size_full":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Untitled-design-10.png"},"loftocean-view-count":["10554"],"category":[{"id":49,"slug":"travel-nurse-career","name":"Career Resources"},{"id":520,"slug":"nurse-licensing","name":"Licensing"}],"post_tag":[{"id":142,"slug":"florida","name":"florida"},{"id":143,"slug":"florida-licensing","name":"florida licensing"},{"id":69,"slug":"licensure","name":"Licensure"}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1708","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/42"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1708"}],"version-history":[{"count":18,"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1708\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7822,"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1708\/revisions\/7822"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1709"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1708"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1708"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1708"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}