Multistate Licensure (NLC)

Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) Multistate Licensure

West Virginia is an active member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). A multistate RN license allows a registered nurse to practice physically or via telehealth in their primary state of residence and all participating compact jurisdictions without obtaining additional licenses.

Apply or Upgrade in the Nurse Portal → 

1. Primary Residence

West Virginia must be declared as your legal Primary State of Residence (PSOR) to hold a WV multistate license.

Acceptable Proof: WV driver's license, voter registration card, state income tax return, or military Form DD-2058.

2. Conversion Fee

Already hold an active WV single-state RN license?

You can request a conversion to a multistate license through the Nurse Portal for a $7.00 fee upon verifying PSOR and ULRs.

View Fee Schedule →

3. Background Check

Requires state and federal fingerprint-based background screening via IdentoGO.

IdentoGO Service Code:228NJX

Results process in 2–3 business days.

Schedule appointment →

Uniform Licensure Requirements (ULRs)

To qualify for a multistate license under the eNLC, an applicant must satisfy all 11 standardized criteria:

  1. Primary Residence: West Virginia must be your declared Primary State of Residence (PSOR).
  2. Board-Approved Education: Graduated from a Board-approved nursing program, or an approved international program verified by an independent credentials agency.
  3. English Proficiency: Passed an approved English language proficiency exam (if international program was not taught in English).
  4. Licensing Exam: Passed the NCLEX-RN® or predecessor national licensing exam.
  5. Unencumbered License: Holds or is eligible for an active, unencumbered RN license.
  6. Background Check: Submitted state and federal fingerprint-based criminal background checks.
  7. No Felony Convictions: Has no state or federal felony convictions.
  8. No Nursing Misdemeanors: Has no misdemeanor convictions related to the practice of nursing (reviewed case-by-case).
  9. Alternative Program Status: Is not currently participating in an alternative-to-discipline program in any jurisdiction.
  10. Mandatory Self-Disclosure: Required to self-disclose any current or past participation in an alternative-to-discipline program.
  11. Social Security Number: Possesses a valid United States Social Security Number.

NLC Tools & Verification

Compact State Map & Status

Over 40 states and territories participate in the NLC. Verify if the state where you plan to practice is an active compact member.

View Participating NLC States Map →

Background Check Scheduling

Schedule your electronic fingerprinting appointment with IdentoGO using Service Code 228NJX.

Background Check Instructions →

Managing Your Multistate License & Resources

Moving To or From West Virginia (Changing PSOR)
  • Moving TO West Virginia from another Compact State: You may practice on your prior home state's multistate license for up to 60 days while applying for a West Virginia multistate license by endorsement.
  • Moving TO West Virginia from a Non-Compact State: Apply for a WV RN license by endorsement through the Nurse Portal. Once residency is established, you can qualify for a multistate license.
  • Moving OUT of West Virginia: When changing your primary residence to another state, update your address in the WV Nurse Portal. Your WV license will transition to a single-state license if WV is no longer your PSOR.
Step-by-Step Conversion Process (Single-State to Multistate)
  1. Log in to your Nurse Portal Account.
  2. Scroll down to the Other Applications section and select RN Multistate Conversion Application.
  3. Attach required proof of West Virginia primary residence (e.g., driver's license, voter card, or tax filing).
  4. Complete your fingerprint electronic background check via IdentoGO using code 228NJX.
  5. Pay the $7.00 conversion fee and submit your application for review.
Additional NLC Guidance & Compact Resources
  • Helpful NLC Tips for Nursing Students and New Graduates:
    Essential guidance for graduating students and new RNs preparing for the NCLEX, establishing PSOR, and applying for their first multistate license.
    View Student & Graduate NLC Guidance (NCSBN) →
  • New Nurse Licensure Compact Rule (Effective Jan 2, 2024):
    Summary of NLC Rule 402(2), requiring nurses moving primary residence to another compact state to apply for a license by endorsement within 60 days of relocation.
    Read the 60-Day NLC Relocation Rule & FAQs →
  • ENLC (Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact) Page at NCSBN.org:
    The official national directory for Interstate Commission rules, uniform licensure statutes, bylaws, and policy updates.
    Visit Official NCSBN Compacts Page →