Florida

" 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

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.

Continuing Education Information

Florida requires 24 hours of continuing education every two years. Your CE credits must include:

• 2 hours on Prevention of Medical Errors
• 2 hours on Laws and Rules Governing Nursing
• 2 hours on Domestic Violence (required every third renewal cycle)

Additionally, first-time renewals must include a one-time HIV/AIDS course. You can convert college credits to CE hours: one quarter hour equals 10 contact hours, and one semester hour equals 15 contact hours oai_citation:7,Florida Board of Nursing » Registered Nurse (RN) - Licensing, Renewals & Information oai_citation:6,Florida Board of Nursing » Licensure by Endorsement FAQs - Licensing, Renewals & Information oai_citation:5,Florida Board of Nursing » Licensed Practical Nurse & Registered Nurse by Endorsement - Licensing, Renewals & Information.

This state requires nurses to hold current ACLS certification

Contact information

Web Address: www.floridasnursing.gov

Physical Address:
4042 Bald Cypress Way, Room 120
Tallahassee, FL 32399

Phone Number: 850-245-4125
Customer Contact Center: 850-488-0595

FAQ

For endorsement FAQs, continuing education FAQs, and general FAQ, click the respective links.