Nurse Licensure and the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
If you're planning to become a nurse or expand your nursing career, understanding state licensure laws is critical. One frequently asked question is whether Connecticut is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The NLC allows nurses to have one multistate license that enables them to practice in other compact states. This makes interstate nursing easier, especially for travel nurses, telehealth providers, and military spouses.
In this article, you’ll learn about the Nurse Licensure Compact, Connecticut’s participation status, and what options are available for nurses in the state. This guidance can help you make informed decisions about your nursing education or career path.
What Is the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)?
The Nurse Licensure Compact is a cooperative agreement that allows registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/VNs) to practice across multiple member states with a single license. The goal is to increase workforce mobility, telehealth flexibility, and emergency response efficiency.
The compact specifically benefits:
- Travel nurses who work short-term in different states
- Nurses offering remote or telehealth services across state lines
- Military spouses relocating frequently
- Nurses responding to regional health emergencies
To qualify for a multistate license, nurses must meet uniform licensure requirements such as passing the NCLEX, passing a criminal background check, and holding an unencumbered license.
Is Connecticut Part of the Nurse Licensure Compact?
No, as of now, Connecticut is not a compact state. This means that Connecticut does not participate in the NLC and does not issue multistate nursing licenses. Nurses holding a license in Connecticut can only practice within the state, unless they apply for and receive licensure by endorsement in another state.
This is important to know if you plan to:
- Live in Connecticut and work as a travel nurse elsewhere
- Practice telehealth nursing across state lines
- Relocate to Connecticut while holding a compact license from another state
Currently, nurses who move into or out of Connecticut must follow each state’s individual licensure requirements. This may involve additional documentation, fees, and processing time.
Why Isn’t Connecticut a Compact State Yet?
Connecticut has considered joining the NLC but has not yet adopted the necessary legislation. Concerns often voiced include:
- Loss of state control over nursing licensure standards
- Privacy issues involving criminal background checks
- Economic impact on state board fees
Efforts to join the compact have appeared in the legislative agenda in past years, but they have not moved forward successfully. Nurses and nursing organizations in Connecticut continue to advocate for the state to adopt the NLC, citing increased job flexibility and better emergency support.
How Can You Practice in Connecticut if You’re Licensed in Another State?
If you hold a nursing license from another state, you'll need to apply for licensure by endorsement to work in Connecticut. The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) oversees this process.
To apply for licensure by endorsement, you typically need:
- Proof of graduation from an approved nursing program
- Verification of an active license from another state
- Passing scores on the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN
- Criminal background check
Processing times can vary, so if you're considering moving to Connecticut or accepting a job offer there, begin the endorsement process early.
What Options Do Connecticut Nurses Have for Multistate Practice?
Even though Connecticut is not in the compact, there are still ways for Connecticut-based nurses to expand their reach:
- Apply for individual state licenses in each state you wish to work in
- Join national and regional nursing networks for job opportunities
- Advocate for NLC legislation through professional associations
For nurses interested in telehealth or travel assignments, having additional state licenses is valuable. This does require more paperwork and maintenance but allows for greater career mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions: Is Connecticut a Compact Nursing State?
Do Connecticut nurses qualify for multistate nursing licenses?
No. Connecticut does not issue multistate licenses. Nurses in Connecticut must hold a separate license to practice in each non-compact state.
Can I use my compact license to work in Connecticut?
No. Since Connecticut is not a member of the NLC, compact licenses are not valid for practice in the state. You will need to apply for a Connecticut nursing license through endorsement.
Will Connecticut become a compact state in the future?
It’s possible. Nursing organizations and lawmakers have proposed joining the compact, but no law has passed yet. Stay informed through the Connecticut Nursing Board and professional associations.
How long does it take to get a Connecticut nursing license by endorsement?
It varies, but the process may take several weeks to a few months. Applying early and providing complete documentation can speed up the process.
Can I work as a telehealth nurse from Connecticut to patients in compact states?
Only if you are licensed in the states where your patients are located. A Connecticut license does not allow you to remotely treat patients in other states, unless you obtain individual licensure there.
Explore Nursing Opportunities in Connecticut and Beyond
While Connecticut is not currently a compact nursing state, you have many ways to build a successful career. Whether you choose to pursue licensure by endorsement or advocate for legislative change, staying informed gives you an advantage.
Connecticut offers strong healthcare facilities, nursing education programs, and career advancement opportunities. By understanding licensure requirements and taking proactive steps, you set yourself up for long-term success in nursing.
If you are considering nursing as a career or planning to further your education, explore programs that prepare you for licensure in your desired states. It’s a vital first step toward making an impact in healthcare wherever your journey leads.
