Florida

Welcome to the Sunshine 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 has grown to include 33 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

To be eligible for RN licensure by endorsement in Florida, you must meet one of the following criteria:

Hold an active RN license in another state.
Have passed the NCLEX or State Board Test Pool Examination.
Have practiced in the U.S. for two of the last three years without disciplinary action.

You will need to submit your endorsement application and pay the required $110 application fee. In addition, Florida requires Livescan electronic fingerprinting for all initial licensure applications. Visit the background screening page for details on fingerprinting.

You can verify your license through Nursys or submit a license verification form if your state does not participate in the Nursys system. Apply for endorsement online here oai_citation:10,Florida Board of Nursing » Licensed Practical Nurse & Registered Nurse by Endorsement - Licensing, Renewals & Information oai_citation:9,Florida Board of Nursing » Licensing and Registration - Licensing, Renewals & Information.

Renewals

RN licenses are renewed in three groups with expiration dates of April 30, July 31, or April 30 every two years. The renewal fee is $80. Nurses must report their continuing education (CE) hours through Florida’s CE tracking system, CEBroker. No CE documents need to be submitted unless you are audited oai_citation:8,Florida Board of Nursing » Registered Nurse (RN) - Licensing, Renewals & Information.