Welcome to the Grand Canyon state!
" 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 had grown to include at least 25 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 originally compact license was lacking.
____nurse.org
Each state needs a competent medical workforce to meet the needs of it’s 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.
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 application 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
a. Finishing a Board approved refresher course within the last 5 years.
b. Completing and advanced degree.
c. Graduating from a program and finishing a degree within the last five years.
3. While RN applicants do need to have a diploma or degree, there are some exceptions. They can be found by clicking here.
4. Applicants require approval by the Arizona Board if they are under investigation.
Application fee is $150. Temporary license fee is $50 (optional).
Fingerprint fee is $50. To view the 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.
To view the application instructions click here.
For Information regarding foreign educated requirements click here.
Applicants who meet the requirements above should submit their application and fees by mail. Emailed and faxed applications will not be accepted. A verification of the applicants original state of licensure should also be included. These can be found at www.nursys.com or at www.azbn.gov/RNLPNEndorsement Applicants should provide proof of lawful presence in the United States. Click herefor a list of acceptable documents.
Note: Those with prior licensure in AZ must apply for renewal, not endorsement.
License renewals are $160 + $3 fee for online renewal. To renew online go to https://myservices.azbn.gov/Login.asp.
Arizona has information on refresher courses at https://www.azbn.gov/sites/default/files/nursing-lists/refresherprograms3-28-192.pdf.
Arizona does not have any continuing education requirements.
The board requires that you have worked at least 960 hours in the last five years in order to renew your license. If you have not met the minimum number of hours, you may take a refresher course. Arizona Board approved refresher courses can be found here.
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 Fax
Email Address: arizona@azbn.gov
Office Hours: 8:00AM-5:00PM Mon-Fri
Web Address: https://www.azbn.gov/
A link to the Arizon State Nursing Board’s frequently asked questions for renewal can be found here. Endorsement FAQ can be found here.