How do I apply for a West Virginia nursing license by endorsement?

Apply through the West Virginia RN Board / LPN Board. 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set by the board and change, so use the official board site for specifics — we do not list them here to avoid giving outdated figures.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 West Virginia by endorsement

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

How do I get a nursing license in West Virginia by endorsement?

You apply to the West Virginia RN Board / LPN Board for a West Virginia license by endorsement, based on your existing license. Because West Virginia 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 West Virginia is not becoming your primary state of residence.

Last reviewed 2026-06-17

What licensure by endorsement means

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

Applying through the West Virginia RN Board / LPN Board

Applications go through the West Virginia RN Board / LPN Board. 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 West Virginia 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 West Virginia RN Board / LPN Board endorsement application.
Follow the board's current requirements and fees (do not rely on third-party figures).
If moving to West Virginia, 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 West Virginia under compact privilege. If West Virginia becomes your home state, you would license here. Confirm your license type on Nursys.