Update: Implementation of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
Earlier this year, Washington enacted the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) into law. The NLC increases access to nursing care while maintaining public protection at the state level. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in Washington state and other NLC states and territories, without obtaining additional licenses.
The Washington State Board of Nursing (board) is currently in Phase 2 of implementation. During this phase, the board will establish the Washington state RN and LPN multistate license in rule, develop the application process, and build the new credential in the state licensing system. The board anticipates being able to offer and issue multistate licenses in early 2024.
Complete details, including an implementation timeline, can be found on the board website.
