Licensing Guide

Ready to practice
in more states?

Getting licensed in another state can feel like a lot — especially if your first application was frustrating. Once you know what to expect and have your information organized, the process becomes much easier to navigate.

Here’s what to expect, what can slow you down, and how to make it easier.

See what to expect

The process is usually pretty straightforward

01
Choose a state
Review the state's requirements and application.
02
Submit your application
Complete the application, disclosures, and required fees.
03
Verify your credentials
The board may verify education, training, examinations, certifications, and licenses.
04
Complete state requirements
Complete fingerprints, background checks, exams, or other state-specific requirements when applicable.
05
Respond to follow-ups
Provide any clarification or additional documentation requested.
06
License issued
Once requirements are satisfied, the state can issue your license.

Every state is a little different, but the basic process is usually pretty familiar. The trick is knowing what you can prepare ahead of time.

Build your licensing kit once

If you plan to practice in multiple states, keep your commonly requested information and documents organized in one place. You'll use many of them again and again.

Tip: Keep one master timeline of your education, training, employment, licenses, and addresses. Using consistent dates across applications can save a lot of headaches later.

Government-issued ID
Current licenses and license numbers
Education information
Residency/postgraduate training information, when applicable
Board examination information
National certification information, when applicable
Complete work/employment history with dates
Address history
Existing license verification information
Professional references, if requested
Passport-style photo
Supporting documents for any disclosure questions
Fingerprint information, when applicable

Fingerprinting: the annoying part, made easier

Many states require fingerprints or a criminal background check as part of the licensing process. The exact process varies by state — and being located outside the state can sometimes make this step less convenient.

If you're in the state

You may be able to use an approved electronic fingerprinting or Live Scan location.

If you're out of state

Depending on the board, you may be able to have fingerprints taken locally using a fingerprint card and mail the completed card to the appropriate agency.

Before you get fingerprinted

Confirm exactly which fingerprint method the board accepts.
Check whether a specific fingerprint card or form is required.
Check whether you must use a specific vendor or identifying code.
Confirm what identification you need to bring.
Find out whether the fingerprints are transmitted electronically or must be mailed.
If mailing fingerprints, consider using a trackable delivery method.

Yes, sometimes getting licensed in another state still involves mailing a fingerprint card.

Things that commonly slow applications down

Dates don't match

Make sure education, training, employment, address, and licensing dates are consistent across applications.

A verification is still outstanding

Some documents must be sent directly from another licensing board, school, training program, or certification organization.

A disclosure needs documentation

A “yes” response to certain application questions may require an explanation and supporting records.

Fingerprints haven't been processed

Fingerprinting and background checks can sometimes become a bottleneck, particularly when completed from out of state.

The board sent a follow-up

Monitor both the licensing portal and your email after submitting your application so requests don't sit unanswered.

Your profession matters

MD / DO

Physicians generally apply to each state medical board individually.

Depending on eligibility and the states involved, the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) may provide an expedited pathway to obtaining licenses in participating states.

The IMLC does not create one national medical license — you still hold a separate license in each state.

NP / APRN

NP/APRN requirements vary more significantly by state.

In addition to licensure, providers may need to consider state-specific practice authority, transition-to-practice requirements, collaboration requirements, and prescriptive authority.

An RN multistate license does not automatically provide multistate APRN/NP practice authority.

PAs generally obtain a license from each state's licensing authority.

State requirements concerning supervision, collaboration, practice agreements, and prescribing can vary.

The PA Licensure Compact is developing as another pathway for eligible PAs. Confirm current availability and requirements before relying on it.

Planning to practice in several states?

If you expect to add multiple states, a little organization up front can make later applications much easier.

Build your licensing kit

Keep commonly requested documents and information together.

Keep a master timeline

Maintain one accurate history of education, training, employment, addresses, and licenses.

Track every application

Keep a record of submission dates, outstanding requirements, follow-ups, and license issuance.

Watch your renewals

Once you have multiple licenses, renewal dates, CME requirements, and other ongoing obligations can become just as important as the initial application.

Frequently asked questions

Licensing and practice requirements change and vary by profession and state. This guide is intended to provide general educational information and is not legal or regulatory advice. Always confirm current requirements with the applicable state licensing board.