AMN Healthcare provided this article.
Travel nurses have the freedom to choose where they want to work and live, yet crossing state lines to practice can complicate the nurse licensing process. Nurse licensing and credentialing are critical to the travel nursing profession, and the process can be complex. Here are some suggestions to help you navigate this process, streamline it, and set yourself up for success.
Travel Nurse Licensure and Credentialing:
Understanding State Licensing Requirements
If you want to work in a state other than your own, you should first understand that the nurse licensing process can be time-consuming. Talk to your recruiter about the timeline for beginning work in another state. This will allow you to budget your time and plan accordingly. Research and contact the nursing board of the state you want to apply to for precise timelines and additional information. Find out what the licensing requirements are and create a timeline for how long it takes to obtain your license. Work with your recruiter to understand the estimated time frames to prevent waiting for your license.
The Role of Compact States
Nurse licensure requirements for travel nursing differ by state, but the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) allows nurses to have a single multistate license that allows them to practice in all compact states. The NLC was first enacted over 20 years ago, and as of October 1, 2023, 41 jurisdictions participate in the compact. If you want to apply, you must be a resident of the state you are applying to, and you must have a valid state ID or driver’s license. Be sure to select “Multistate” on your application, as not every state issues a compact state license just because you live or reside there. Check with your state to understand the process and timeline.
Travel Nurse Licensure for Non-Compact States
If you reside in a non-compact state and do not qualify for a multistate nursing license or want to work in a state that does not yet participate in the NLC, you will need to obtain a new, single-state nursing license. Begin the process by contacting the state’s Board of Nursing and working with a credentialing specialist at your travel nursing agency. These professionals can help you through the process and ensure you have all the appropriate paperwork to obtain your state nursing license. Licensing fees vary by state or jurisdiction, and many times, these fees will be reimbursed by your staffing agency. Check with your credentialing specialist or recruiter to see if reimbursements are available.
Credentialing, Verification, and Special Certifications
Before starting an assignment with a new healthcare system or facility, nurses must provide extensive documentation. The proprietary AMN Passport app has been a tremendous help with the overall process of travel nurse licensure and credentialing, but it is only as good as the information that goes into it. Promptly upload all documents on the app and double-check that they are clear copies. If your documentation is rejected, it will continue to be listed as outstanding items on your list of to-do’s. This can be confusing, so be sure to attach all documents to one or two updates weekly instead of sending multiple emails every day.
Travel nurses often require basic and specialty certifications approved by the American Heart Association and other credentialing bodies. Review the job requirements for the travel nursing jobs that interest you on the AMN Healthcare website or via the AMN Passport app. A credentialing specialist will also work with you to ensure that these certifications remain current throughout your assignment.
Final Tips to Speed Up the Process
Researching and planning for travel nurse licensing and credentialing can help set you up for a successful and stress-free experience. The quicker you start on your list, the faster you will clear the requirements and have them out of the way. Don’t wait until the last minute to do anything! Sign forms immediately and respond promptly to all emails. Keep your recruiter updated on your email communication to facilitate the process. Finally, upload all your current medical titers and vaccinations when your assignment is booked to schedule one trip to the clinic instead of going in multiple times.
We hope you found this article on travel nurse licensure and credentialing helpful. Do you have any tips or advice on travel nurse licensure and credentialing to share with your fellow travelers? Comment them below.
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