When I get my Arizona Registered Nursing License, is this the only state I can use it

Question

I'm going to be attending nursing school in AZ in the fall. I don't want to live here my whole life. What would I have to do to get my license in another state? Take the NCLEX-exam again? Pleas Help-Thanks.

Answer 1

No, you don't have to take the NCLEX again...your state health department can give you information on the compact states (states where you can work under your arizona license)..if you go to a state that is not compacted you will have to pay a fee to obtain the license..im licensed in virginia and I have to pay new york approx 200 dollars to obtain a license..its all about dues and money...but no more NCLEX

Answer 2

I got my initial RN license after graduating 30 yrs ago. Since that time I've lived in 6 different states. I never had a problem getting my license in a new state. It is a fairly simple process but may take up to 4-6 weeks to get the actual license in hand.  Make sure you apply early.  Even though you can get a temporary license to practice, alot of employers wont hire you until you get that actual license and they can verify and copy for your records.  

But overall it hasn't been a problem at all. Only took the RN licensing exam once.   You just go on the website for the State you are moving to, their licensing info for RNs and it will give you all the information you need to apply for the license in their state.   Now with the compact states coming out, it should even get better.

Make sure though that you keep your RN license active in at least one State (ALWAYS)   don't ever let it lapse, even if there are times you aren't actively working as a nurse.