Registered Nurse License in California
Everything you need to know about getting your RN license to practice in California.
Nurse Licensure Compact
The enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC) allows RNs and LPN/VNs to hold one multistate license and practice in all member states. All RN specialties — including Med/Surg, ICU, L&D, Step-Down, and others — use the same RN license. Your primary state of residence must be a compact state.
California is not a NLC member state. You will need to apply for a California RN license by endorsement, regardless of whether you hold a compact license in another state.
Visit NLC PortalRequirements for RN Licensure in California
- 1Active, unencumbered RN license in another state
- 2Verification via Nursys or state board
- 3Criminal background check (FBI fingerprint)
- 4Application fee payment
- 5California-specific jurisprudence exam
Estimated Processing Timeline
Most RN endorsement applications in California are processed within 8 to 16 weeks. Processing times may vary based on completeness of your application and current board workload.
This guide is for informational purposes only. Licensure requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the California Board of Nursing.
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