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

Apply through the Pennsylvania State Board of 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set by the board and change, so use the official board site for specifics — we do not list them here to avoid giving outdated figures.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 Pennsylvania by endorsement

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

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

You apply to the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing for a Pennsylvania license by endorsement, based on your existing license. Because Pennsylvania is a compact state, if you are moving your residence here you may instead qualify for a multistate license — often the better route. Endorsement still applies if Pennsylvania is not becoming your primary state of residence.

Last reviewed 2026-06-17

What licensure by endorsement means

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

Applying through the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing

Applications go through the Pennsylvania State Board of 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.

Endorsement vs the compact here

Since Pennsylvania is a compact state, moving your residence here can make you eligible for a multistate license instead of a plain endorsement. See moving to a compact state.

Next-step checklist

Confirm your current license is active and unencumbered (Nursys).
Open the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing endorsement application.
Follow the board's current requirements and fees (do not rely on third-party figures).
If moving to Pennsylvania, ask whether you qualify for a multistate license instead.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, if your license is an active multistate license from a compact state — you can practice in Pennsylvania under compact privilege. If Pennsylvania becomes your home state, you would license here. Confirm your license type on Nursys.