How do I apply for a California nursing license by endorsement?

Apply through the California Board of Registered Nursing. Requirements, fees, and processing times are set by the board and change, so use the official board site for specifics — we do not list them here to avoid giving outdated figures.

Is endorsement the same as a compact license?

No. Endorsement gives you that state's own single-state license. A compact license is one multistate license that covers all compact states. See our endorsement vs compact guide.

CompactStates

How to get a nursing license in California by endorsement

If you are already licensed in another state, endorsement is usually how you get licensed in California. Here is how it works and when the compact is the better path.

How do I get a nursing license in California by endorsement?

You apply to the California Board of Registered Nursing for a California license by endorsement, based on your existing license. Because California is not a compact state, endorsement is the main route to practice here — a multistate license from another state does not authorize California practice.

Last reviewed 2026-06-17

What licensure by endorsement means

Endorsement is applying for California’s own license based on an existing license in good standing. You end up holding a California license. It is different from a compact license, which is one multistate license covering all compact states.

Applying through the California Board of Registered Nursing

Applications go through the California Board of Registered Nursing. Requirements and fees are set by the board and change over time, so we point you to the official source rather than listing specifics that could go stale.

Why the compact does not help here

Since California is non-compact, there is no California multistate license and privilege from other states does not reach California. Endorsement is the route. See non-compact states.

Next-step checklist

Confirm your current license is active and unencumbered (Nursys).
Open the California Board of Registered Nursing endorsement application.
Follow the board's current requirements and fees (do not rely on third-party figures).
Plan for processing time before you need to start work in California.

Frequently asked questions

No. California is not a compact state, so a multistate license does not authorize practice in California. You generally need a California license by endorsement.