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Can I work in Puerto Rico with a compact license?

A compact (multistate) license does not currently authorize Puerto Rico practice. Here is why, and the route you actually need.

Can I work in Puerto Rico with a compact nursing license?

No. Puerto Rico is not a Nurse Licensure Compact state, so compact privilege does not reach it — a multistate license from another state does not authorize practice in Puerto Rico. To work in Puerto Rico you generally need a Puerto Rico license, usually by endorsement.

Last reviewed 2026-06-17

What compact privilege is

A multistate license from your primary state of residence carries compact privilege — the authority to practice in other compact states without licensing separately in each. It only exists between states that are live in the Nurse Licensure Compact.

Why privilege does not reach Puerto Rico

Since Puerto Rico is not part of the compact, there is no Puerto Rico compact privilege to grant. See non-compact states and working in a non-compact state with a compact license.

Confirm before you rely on it

License status changes and the compact evolves. Confirm your own license type on Nursys and check Puerto Rico’s current rules with the Puerto Rico Board of Nurse Examiners. CompactStates.com is an independent guide, not a licensing authority.

Next-step checklist

  • Do not rely on a multistate license to practice in Puerto Rico.
  • Open the Puerto Rico Board of Nurse Examiners to apply for a Puerto Rico license.
  • Plan for endorsement processing time before you start work.
  • Verify your current license status on Nursys.

Frequently asked questions

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

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