Louisiana

" 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 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.

Endorsements

Below is a general list of requirements for endorsements. Click here to view the endorsement application.

• Proof of licensure from the state that you were originally licensed in.
• Proof of licensure from the last state you worked in, if applicable.
  • Licensure verification may be obtainable from www.nursys.com, otherwise, contact your original and prior state’s nursing boards for verification.
• Proof you have completed an approved nursing program.
  • Excelsior graduates should contact the Louisiana Board directly.
• Either a passing score on the NCLEX or a score of at least 1600, or 350 on the State Board Test Pool Examination.
• No prior disciplinary action or pending criminal action.
• Proof of English language proficiency if applicable.
• Criminal background check.
• 2x2 passport style photo.
• LPN or LVN licensure verification, even if it is expired.
• Transcripts proving nursing education.
• Social security number.
• Application Fees:
  • $140.75 for mailed applications ($240.75 if requesting a temporary permit).
  • $150.75 for hand-delivered applications ($250.75 if requesting a temporary permit).

Licenses are renewed yearly in Louisiana from October to the last day of December for $100. Late renewals will be accepted until the 31st of January for $150. All renewals must be completed online. All licenses are paperless. Free license verification can be obtained at the LSBN website within one business day after renewing online.

Continuing competency

The amount of continuing education you need for renewal will depend on how many hours you have worked over the year prior to renewal. Nurses practicing for at least 1600 hours will need at least 5 contact hours. Those practicing between 160 and 1600 hours will need at least 10 contact hours. Registered nurses practicing less than 160 hours will need at least 15 contact hours. For more details, click here.

This state requires nurses to hold current ACLS certification.

Contact information

Louisiana State Board of Nursing
17373 Perkins Road
Baton Rouge, LA 70810

Phone: 225-755-7500
Fax: 225-755-7584

Email: send email

For more specific inquiries:

• Education/Licensure: Patricia Dufrene 225-755-7522 send email
• Endorsements/Volunteer Nurses/Foreign Nurses: 225-755-7520 225-755-7581 send email
• Education: Students & Continuing Education: 225-755-7522 225-755-7580 send email
• General Questions: 225-755-7500 225-755-7584 send email
• License Renewal: 225-755-7500 225-755-7584 send email

FAQ

Frequently asked questions for continuing nursing education can be found here.
Frequently asked questions for renewing your license online can be found here.