Welcome to the Hawkeye state!

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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 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

Iowa is a compact state. If you are moving to Iowa or claiming it as your primary state of residence, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement to use your license in Iowa. General instructions are listed below:

• You must be a graduate of a Board-approved nursing school.
• Passing NCLEX results are required.
• Complete an online application or request a paper application via email (newnurse@iowa.gov) or phone (515-281-4826).
• The application fee is $169 (which includes a $50 criminal background check fee).
• Fingerprint cards and a background check are mandatory.
• Submit an official transcript.
• Provide license verification through Nursys or the Verification of Original License Form.
• Foreign-educated nurses must submit a Professional Report from the CGFNS Credentials Evaluation Service.

For more details, visit Iowa’s endorsement page.

You may renew your license online for $99. Renewal occurs every three years. Renewal must be completed 30 days prior to the 15th of your birth month; after this date, a $50 late fee will be incurred [oai_citation:8,License Renewals

Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing](https://dial.iowa.gov/licenses/medical/nursing-professional-midwifery/nursing-licensure/renewals) [oai_citation:7,Board of Nursing

Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing](https://dial.iowa.gov/about-dial/boards-0/board-nursing).

This state requires nurses to hold current ACLS certification

Continuing competency

You must complete a Mandatory Abuse Course every five years. Additionally, for your first renewal, 24 contact hours (2.4 continuing education units) are required, and for subsequent renewals, 36 contact hours (3.6 continuing education units) are required. To view Iowa’s continuing education page, click here [oai_citation:6,Nursing Licensure

Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing](https://dial.iowa.gov/licenses/medical/nursing-professional-midwifery/nursing-licensure) oai_citation:5,REGISTERED NURSE (RN).

Contact information

Iowa Board of Nursing

Address: 400 S.W. 8th Street
Suite B
Des Moines, IA 50309

Phone: (515) 281-3255
Fax: (515) 281-4825
Email: nursing@sos.iowa.gov

Hours of Operation: 8:00 am– 4:30 pm Monday through Friday