Georgia

" 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 vary between states. This is why it’s important to understand 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 apply for RN licensure by endorsement in Georgia, you must:

• Complete a notarized application and pay the $75 application fee.
• Submit verification of licensure from either Nursys or from your current and original state of licensure if they are different.
• Provide official transcripts if required, and foreign graduates must submit a Professional Report from the CGFNS Credentials Evaluation Service.
• Show proof of 500 hours of RN practice in the last four years or proof of graduation from a nursing program within the last four years. If you do not meet these criteria, you must complete an approved nursing reentry program.

• Complete a fingerprint background check. Visit the guidelines page for more information [oai_citation:6,Georgia Board of Nursing

  Georgia Secretary of State](https://sos.ga.gov/georgia-board-nursing) [oai_citation:5,How to Guide: Registered Nurse

  Georgia Secretary of State](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-guide-registered-nurse).

Renewal

To renew your license, visit the Professional Licensing Login page. RNs must renew every two years, with licenses expiring on January 31.

Continuing competency

Georgia RNs are required to complete continuing education or demonstrate competency before their license expires. There are five options for license renewal:

1. Complete 30 hours of continuing education through an approved provider.
2. Maintain certification (or recertification) by a Board-recognized national certifying organization.
3. Submit verification of 500 hours of practice in the last four years and a competency evaluation from your employer.
4. Graduate from a Board-recognized nursing program or complete a reentry program.
5. Complete a 2-hour course in nursing or a related field.

This state requires nurses to hold current ACLS certification

Contact information

Mailing Address:
Georgia Board of Nursing
237 Coliseum Drive
Macon, GA 31217

Phone: 478-207-2440
Fax: 877-371-5712
Email: send email

FAQ

Click here for the Georgia Nursing Board’s continuing competency FAQ.

Click here for the Georgia Board of Nursing’s general FAQ.