Licensure Guide

Know before you go.
Licensure by state

Explore licensure requirements by state across nursing, therapy, and allied health. Switch between professions to compare compact states, timelines, and processes.

Move faster

How to get licensed faster

Five steps experienced travelers follow to minimize delays and start assignments on time.

Determine if you're in a compact state

If your primary state of residence is a compact member state for your profession, you may already hold — or be eligible for — a multistate license or compact privilege.

Apply for endorsement early

If you need a single-state license, start the application 8–12 weeks before your assignment. Many states have online applications and can process faster with complete documentation.

Request temporary permits when available

Some states issue temporary practice permits that let you start working while your full endorsement is processed. Ask the state board about this option.

Keep your documents organized

Maintain a digital folder with your license verifications, transcripts, certification cards, and background check results. This speeds up every new application.

Track renewal dates

Set reminders for license and certification renewals. A lapsed license can delay or cancel an assignment. Most states allow online renewal well before expiration.

Beyond licensure

Certifications that matter

The credentials facilities ask for most on travel contracts.

BLS

Basic Life Support

Required for all contracts

Required

ACLS

Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support

Acute care, ICU, ER, telemetry

Required

PALS

Pediatric Advanced Life Support

Peds, NICU, L&D, ER

Common

NIHSS

NIH Stroke Scale

Neuro, ICU, step-down, ER

Common

TNCC

Trauma Nursing Core Course

ER & trauma centers

Common

CCRN

Critical Care Registered Nurse

ICU, CVICU, step-down

Specialty

View all certifications

Luvo helps cover your licensing costs

When you travel with Luvo, we reimburse state licensing fees, certifications, and continuing education — plus full benefits from day one.

View all benefits

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Licensure requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the relevant state licensing board or professional authority.

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Browse travel healthcare positions across all 50 states with transparent pay packages.

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Licensure Guide

Know before you go.
Licensure by state

Explore licensure requirements by state across nursing, therapy, and allied health. Switch between professions to compare compact states, timelines, and processes.

Move faster

How to get licensed faster

Five steps experienced travelers follow to minimize delays and start assignments on time.

Determine if you're in a compact state

If your primary state of residence is a compact member state for your profession, you may already hold — or be eligible for — a multistate license or compact privilege.

Apply for endorsement early

If you need a single-state license, start the application 8–12 weeks before your assignment. Many states have online applications and can process faster with complete documentation.

Request temporary permits when available

Some states issue temporary practice permits that let you start working while your full endorsement is processed. Ask the state board about this option.

Keep your documents organized

Maintain a digital folder with your license verifications, transcripts, certification cards, and background check results. This speeds up every new application.

Track renewal dates

Set reminders for license and certification renewals. A lapsed license can delay or cancel an assignment. Most states allow online renewal well before expiration.

Beyond licensure