What the 60-day rule actually requires
A multistate license belongs to your primary state of residence. Once you legally move, that state changes, so you can’t keep relying on the old license indefinitely. The compact gives you a window — generally 60 days — to apply for licensure by endorsement in your new home state.
- Establish legal residency in the new state.
- Apply for licensure by endorsement with the new state’s board of nursing.
- Do this within the 60-day window to stay properly licensed.
Moving to a non-compact state
If your new home state is a non-compact state, you won’t get a multistate license there. You would apply for a single-state license by endorsement instead, and you would lose multistate privileges that came from your old home state.
Can I practice while my new application is pending?
Rules vary, and there can be limited authorization to practice while an endorsement application is processed. Don’t assume — confirm the exact timing and any temporary authorization with your new state’s board of nursing before you work. Use the compact state checker to see guidance for your specific move.