Welcome to the Bluegrass 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, by 2015 the license had grown to include 25 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 originally compact license was lacking.
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Each state needs a competent medical workforce to meet the needs of it’s citizens. However, the requirements for some health care 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.
Kentucky is a compact state. If you are moving to Kentucky or claiming it as your primary state of residence, you will need to apply for application by endorsement in order to use your license in Kentucky. General instructions are listed below.
Completed Online Endorsement Application with $165 application fee
Federal background check ($14.75)
Completed Verification of Licensure Form or verification via www.nursys.com
Complete a Jurisprudence Examination online after completing the application. Information about the exam can be obtained here.
Paper Application Request Form Link
You may renew your license online for $50. Renewals occur yearly before October 31.
Foreign nurses educated outside of the U.S. must complete the VisaScreen for Kentucky Licensure. For details about the VisaScreen process click here.
You will have three years after your licensure to take a one time, 1.5 hour Pediatric Head Trauma course. Click herefor a list of providers.
Generally, 14 contact hours (Board approved) or certification (or recertification) in a nursing related program (must be a national certifying organization) will fill continuing competency requirements. However, there are other alternatives. Click here to view KentuckyContinuing Competency page. Click hereto see mandatory courses.
There is a one time only requirement to take a Domestic Violence CE course. You must take this within 3 years of obtaining your KY license, and retain documentation until you retire your license. CE earning period is between November 1 to October 31.
Kentucky Board of Nursing 312 Whittington Pky, Suite 300 Louisville, KY 40222
Phone number: 502-429-3300
or 1-800-305-2042
Fax number: 502-429-3311
Hours of Operation: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Click herefor Frequently Asked Questions.