Skip to content

Living in California, working in Oregon

California Non-compact stateOregon Non-compact state

Can a California nurse work in Oregon?

Neither California nor Oregon is a compact state, so the Nurse Licensure Compact does not apply to this move. You will need an active Oregon license — typically by endorsement — to work in Oregon.

Nurse Licensure Compact FAQLast reviewed 2026-06-17

Recommended next step

Apply for licensure by endorsement with the Oregon State Board of Nursing.

Things to keep in mind

  • The compact is not involved when neither state participates.
  • Always confirm your individual eligibility with the state board of nursing and check your license type in Nursys before you practice.

Sources & last reviewed

  • NLC frequently asked questionsNCSBN / NurseCompact (nursecompact.com)

    Covers multistate licenses, primary state of residence, the 60-day rule, telehealth, and license type coverage.

  • NLC member states map & statusNCSBN / NurseCompact (nursecompact.com)

    Identifies full members, partial implementation (Guam), and enacted/awaiting implementation (Massachusetts, U.S. Virgin Islands).

  • Nursys QuickConfirm license verificationNCSBN / Nursys (nursys.com)

    Recommended destination to verify whether a license is single-state or multistate.

Facts on this page were last reviewed against official sources on 2026-06-17. Compact law changes — always verify with your state board of nursing.