What the NLC does
The NLC replaces state-by-state licensing for participating states with a single multistate license. If your primary residence is an NLC state and you hold the multistate license type, you can practice in person and via telehealth in every other NLC state without applying for a separate license.
- Covers RN and LPN/LVN licenses.
- Does not, by itself, cover APRN practice.
- Reaches only member states — not non-compact states.
NLC states and the map
As of 2026 the compact spans 43 jurisdictions: 40 have fully implemented it, 1 is partially implemented, and 2 have enacted the law but are awaiting implementation. The remaining 13 U.S. states and territories have not joined. See the full, current list of compact (NLC) states, the visual NLC states map, and states in the process of joining. Some searchers call these “nurse compact states,” “compact license states,” or “NLC nursing states” — they all mean the same thing.
Is my license an NLC multistate license?
Holding a license from an NLC state is not the same as holding the multistate type. Look your license up on Nursys — it shows whether the license is single-state or multistate. Only a multistate license carries NLC privilege. See how to tell if your license is compact.
Check your state
Use the compact state checker for a direct answer on any state, or open your state page for its status, board link, and what it means if you live or work there. When it matters, your state board of nursing is the authority.