" 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.
Rhode Island is a compact state. If you are moving to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island. General instructions are listed below.
Completed, notarized application
Application Requirements link. This also includes information about foreign educated applicants.
Application fee of $135
Transcript from nursing school
Proof of nursing program graduation
Copy of your active license from your current state
Copy of document proving your primary address
Tax return
Driver’s license
Verification of licensure of all states you have been licensed in from
2x2 passport style photo
Background Check
For information about fingerprinting along with state and federal background checks visit this link.
Licenses are renewed every two years. To do it online click here.
The American Nurses Credentialing Center or one of its local offices must approve, present, or accept any continuing education credit. You will not have to submit proof of continuing education at the time of renewal; but, you should keep any documentation for four years in the case of an audit.
You must complete ten contact hours of continuing education in the two years preceding renewal. Click here for more information. Two of your CEs must be about substance abuse.
Rhode Island Nursing Licensing web address
Location
105 Cannon Building, Three Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02908
Mailing Address
105 Cannon Building, Three Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02908
Phone: 401.222.5700
Fax: 401.222.3352