Delaware

" 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 healthcare 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

Delaware is a compact state. If you are moving to Delaware or declaring it as your primary state of residence, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement. Below are the general requirements:

• Hold a current, active RN license.
• Graduate from a Board-approved nursing program in the past two years OR complete 1,000 hours of work as an RN in the last five years OR 400 hours in the last two years.
• Complete a notarized application and submit the $141 processing fee online.
• Provide proof of your primary state of residence (e.g., driver’s license, tax return, or W-2).
• Submit criminal background check results, even if recently completed. The background check fee is $69.
• Provide license verification via Nursys or by submitting a Verification of Original License form.
• If you don’t have a U.S. Social Security Number, you will need to fill out a request for exemption oai_citation:10,RN/LPN License by Endorsement - Division of Professional Regulation - State of Delaware oai_citation:9,License Renewal - Division of Professional Regulation - State of Delaware oai_citation:8,Frequently Asked Questions - Division of Professional Regulation - State of Delaware.

Continuing competency

Delaware RN licenses expire on February 28, May 31, or September 30 of odd-numbered years. Nurses need to work 1,000 hours in the past five years or 400 hours in the past two years to renew their licenses.

• If your license is issued by endorsement and you’ve held it for less than two years, you will need 15 contact hours for renewal.
• If you’ve had your Delaware license for over two years, you will need 30 contact hours of continuing education, including three hours on substance abuse oai_citation:7,RN/LPN License by Endorsement - Division of Professional Regulation - State of Delaware oai_citation:6,License Renewal - Division of Professional Regulation - State of Delaware oai_citation:5,Frequently Asked Questions - Division of Professional Regulation - State of Delaware.

More details about continuing education and renewal processes are available in the Board of Nursing’s regulations.

This state requires nurses to hold current ACLS certification

Contact information

Board of Nursing
Division of Professional Regulation
861 Silver Lake Blvd, Cannon Building, Suite 203
Dover, DE 19904

Phone: 302.744.4500
Fax: 302.739.2711
Email: send email

FAQ

For frequently asked questions regarding Delaware RN licensure, visit the Delaware Board of Nursing FAQ page.