All states and territories in the U.S. require a state nursing license to practice nursing in that state. This license is given by the respective State Board of Nursing. A list of such State Boards of licensing with contact information can be found here. The requirements for licensing vary from state to state but each state requires the NCLEX-RN examination. In addition, many states require foreign educated RNs to be evaluated by CGFNS as part of the licensing process. Nursing License renewal is also handled by the respective State Board of Nursing.

Many US states participate in a Nursing License Compact (NLC) whereby they recognize licenses issued by other states in the NLC. These states are -

Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) States

If you have questions regarding state nursing license, please contact your state board of nursing.