Arizona

" The Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) is an agreement between states that allows nurses to have one license but the ability to practice in other states that are part of the agreement.

Originally developed in 2000, in 2024 the license has grown to include 39 states. To help streamline the process for nurses the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC) was implemented in 2018 and included standards for licensure which the original compact license was lacking.

Each state needs a competent medical workforce to meet the needs of its citizens. However, the requirements for some health care professions are not the same in each state. That is why it is important to find out what is required of you as a future or current registered nurse before moving across state lines. Contact information is located at the bottom of this page.

Endorsements

Arizona is a compact state. If you are moving to Arizona or claiming it as your primary state of residence, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement in order to use your license in Arizona. General instructions are listed below.

1. Provide proof of a passing NCLEX or State Board Test Pool exam score.

2. Applicants must have either a previous license or a current license along with at least 960 hours of practice in the last five years. Alternatives include:
   • Completing a Board-approved refresher course within the last 5 years.
   • Completing an advanced degree.
   • Graduating from a nursing program and finishing the degree within the last five years.

3. While RN applicants do need to have a diploma or degree, some exceptions apply. These can be found by clicking here.

4. Applicants under investigation require approval by the Arizona Board.

• Application fee: $150.
• Temporary license fee: $50 (optional).
• Fingerprint fee: $50. To view the fingerprint instruction card, click here.

If your state does not participate in the NURSYS verification system, you must complete the verification form and mail it to the state of your original license.

To view the Endorsement application packet, click here.

For information regarding foreign-educated nurse requirements, click here.

Applicants who meet the requirements above should submit their application and fees by mail. Emailed and faxed applications are not accepted. Include verification of your original state of licensure, which can be obtained through www.nursys.com or www.azbn.gov/RNLPNEndorsement. Proof of lawful presence in the US must also be provided. For a list of acceptable documents, click here.

Note: Those with prior licensure in AZ must apply for renewal, not endorsement.

Renewal

License renewal costs $160 plus a $3 online fee. To renew online, go to Arizona State Board of Nursing Renewal Page.

Arizona provides information on refresher courses at this link.

Continuing competency

Arizona does not have formal continuing education (CE) requirements.

The board requires that you have worked at least 960 hours in the last five years to renew your license. If you haven’t met this requirement, you may take a refresher course. Arizona Board-approved refresher courses can be found here.

This state requires nurses to hold current ACLS certification

Contact information

Mailing/Physical Address:
Arizona State Board of Nursing
4747 North 7th Street, Suite 200
Phoenix, AZ 85014-3655

Phone number: 602-771-7800
Fax number: 602-771-7888

Email Address: send email
Office Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Mon-Fri

Web Address:
https://www.azbn.gov/

FAQ

A link to the Arizona State Nursing Board’s frequently asked questions for renewal can be found here. Endorsement FAQ can be found here.