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" 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 2025 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.
Idaho is a compact state, meaning nurses can practice across other compact states without needing to apply for a separate license. If you are moving to Idaho or claiming it as your primary state of residence, you will need to apply for an endorsement to use your license in Idaho. General instructions are listed below:
| Complete an endorsement application through the Nurse Portal [oai_citation:9,Apply for or Renew a License | Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses](https://dopl.idaho.gov/bon/bon-licensing-del/). |
| Pay the required application fee ($110) [oai_citation:8,Continuing Education and Auditing | Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses](https://dopl.idaho.gov/cou/cou-ce-and-audit/). |
| Submit a fingerprint-based criminal background check ($42 fee) [oai_citation:7,Apply for or Renew a License | Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses](https://dopl.idaho.gov/bon/bon-licensing-del/). |
| Verification of licensure through the Nursys system, or if your state does not participate, submit the “Verification of Licensure” form [oai_citation:6,Resources and Forms | Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses](https://dopl.idaho.gov/bon/bon-resources/). |
| You may also apply for a temporary license while your endorsement is being processed. This costs an additional $25 [oai_citation:5,Continuing Education and Auditing | Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses](https://dopl.idaho.gov/cou/cou-ce-and-audit/). |
| Idaho nursing licenses expire on August 31 of odd-numbered years. Renewal can be completed through the Nurse Portal. The renewal fee is $90 [oai_citation:4,Apply for or Renew a License | Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses](https://dopl.idaho.gov/bon/bon-licensing-del/) oai_citation:3,. |
| Idaho does not require continuing education for RN license renewal. However, you must maintain good standing with the Board, and audits may be conducted to ensure competency [oai_citation:2,Continuing Education and Auditing | Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses](https://dopl.idaho.gov/cou/cou-ce-and-audit/). |
Idaho Board of Nursing
PO Box 83720
280 N 8th Street, Suite 210
Boise, Idaho 83720-0061
Phone: 208-577-2476
TDD: 800-377-3529
Fax: 208-334-3262
Email: send email
Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
| For more details, visit the Idaho Board of Nursing website [oai_citation:1,Resources and Forms | Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses](https://dopl.idaho.gov/bon/bon-resources/). |
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