Can I get a multistate nursing license in Michigan?

Generally no. Michigan does not currently issue multistate licenses to its residents. You would hold a single-state Michigan license, or apply by endorsement if you are licensed elsewhere. Verify with the Michigan Board of Nursing (LARA).

Can I work in Michigan with a compact license from another state?

Generally no. Michigan does not currently recognize compact privilege, so an out-of-state compact license does not authorize practice in Michigan. You would usually apply for licensure by endorsement with the Michigan Board of Nursing (LARA).

Does the compact in Michigan cover RNs and LPNs/LVNs?

The Nurse Licensure Compact covers RN and LPN/VN licenses. It does not, by itself, cover APRN roles — APRNs generally need separate authorization in each practice state. This applies wherever the compact is in effect.

Is Michigan a nursing compact state?

Non-compact stateCompact: No

No. Michigan is not currently a Nurse Licensure Compact state. Nurses whose primary state of residence is Michigan generally cannot obtain a Michigan-issued multistate nursing license, and a compact license from another state does not authorize practice in Michigan.

Check another state Verify your license status

The short version

Michigan is not a compact state. Legislation to join has been introduced repeatedly but has not been enacted, so for now Michigan residents hold single-state licenses and compact privilege doesn’t apply here. Treat it as one to watch, not to count on.

What nurses need to know

Because Michigan has not joined the compact, there is no Michigan multistate license. Michigan residents hold a single-state license that is valid only in Michigan.

To work in Michigan with an out-of-state license, you generally apply for licensure by endorsement directly with the Michigan Board of Nursing (LARA). A compact license from another state does not cover you in Michigan.

If you move your primary residence to a compact state later, you may then become eligible for a multistate license through that state.

If you live in Michigan

If you live in Michigan, your license is single-state — valid in Michigan only. Michigan residents can’t get a multistate license unless Michigan joins the compact. To work in another state, you’d apply there.

If you want to work in Michigan

You’ll need a Michigan license — usually by endorsement — even if you hold a compact license elsewhere. Compact privilege doesn’t reach Michigan.

Does the compact cover RNs, LPNs/LVNs, and APRNs?

The compact covers RNs and LPNs/LVNs. It does not, on its own, cover APRNs — nurse practitioners, CRNAs, CNSs, and CNMs generally need separate APRN authorization in each state. See the APRN guide for details, and confirm specifics with the Michigan Board of Nursing (LARA).

Planning a move or a telehealth role? For telehealth you’re generally licensed where the patient is. Run your exact situation through the compact state checker.

Ohio → Michigan

Michigan compact questions

No. No. Michigan is not currently a Nurse Licensure Compact state. Nurses whose primary state of residence is Michigan generally cannot obtain a Michigan-issued multistate nursing license, and a compact license from another state does not authorize practice in Michigan.

Why we point you to Nursys

CompactStates explains the state rules. Nursys confirms your individual license. Nursys QuickConfirm is the official, free service where nurses can look up whether their own license is single-state or multistate. We’re an independent guide; Nursys and your board are where personal license status is verified.

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Sources reviewed

NLC member states map & status— NCSBN / NurseCompact (nursecompact.com)
Identifies full members, partial implementation (Guam), and enacted/awaiting implementation (Massachusetts, U.S. Virgin Islands).
NLC frequently asked questions— NCSBN / NurseCompact (nursecompact.com)
Covers multistate licenses, primary state of residence, the 60-day rule, telehealth, and license type coverage.
Nursys QuickConfirm license verification— NCSBN / 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.

This page is a practical guide, not a licensing decision. Always confirm your situation with your board of nursing.