Before your first shift even begins, there's a little behind-the-scenes magic that needs to happen to make it all official. We’re talking licenses, health records, training modules—all the stuff that proves you're ready to crush it from day one.
When you travel with FlexCare, we help manage that magic from start to finish—reminders, uploads, deadlines, and all. But knowing what’s needed puts you in control and keeps things moving faster.
Think of compliance as your travel passport: it tells every facility, “This clinician’s the real deal.” This guide breaks it down so you can stay ahead, ditch the stress, and get to the fun part—your new adventure.
Licensure: Know Where You Can Practice
Your license is your golden ticket. Depending on your role and the state, you might need a specific license to practice. For RNs, that means making sure your license is valid in the state you're heading to.
- If your home state is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), good news—you can practice in any of the 43 states (and counting).
- If you're an Allied pro, licensure rules can vary. Your FlexCare recruiter has the cheat codes—lean on them to know exactly what’s needed where.
Everyone needs a current BLS card. And many facilities want it from the American Heart Association (AHA).
Pro tip: Just go with the AHA—it’ll save you time and give you more flexibility.
You might also need:
- ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support)
- PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support)
- NRP (Neonatal Resuscitation Program)
- NIHSS (Stroke Scale Certification)
Allied travelers may need ARRT, ASCP, or NBCOT credentials
Bonus tip: Don’t wait to renew! Set reminders, check dates, and avoid scrambling mid-contract.
Work History and References
Want to get submitted to jobs faster? Have these ready:
- Up-to-date résumé
- Two recent supervisor references
- Upload everything into the FlexCare App to keep it clean and organized. You'll also complete skills checklists based on your specialty.
Pro tip: Still on assignment? Ask for your reference before you wrap up—it’s much easier while you’re still on-site!
To be fully compliant, you’ll need:
- Pre-employment physical (within the last 12 months)
- TB screening and recent TB questionnaire
- MMR, Varicella, and Hep B titers or vax records
- Flu shot (during flu season)
- Some facilities may have extras, so keep an eye out.
Pro tip: Knock these out early. Lab results can take up to two weeks.
A 10-panel drug screen and national background check are standard. Some states—like CA, NY, and FL—require fingerprinting or county-level checks too.
Pro tip: Submit all your screening paperwork within 72 hours of receiving it.
Before you clock in on day one, you’ll complete a few learning modules. These might cover:
- HIPAA, bloodborne pathogens, and workplace safety
- Skills assessments based on your unit (like vent management or aseptic technique)
- EMR training (Epic, Cerner, Meditech, etc.)
Pro tip: Review study guides and get these done at least two weeks before your start date.
When | What to Do |
|---|---|
Before Submitting | Confirm you’re licensed (or start the process). |
At Submission | Start uploading health docs, licenses, and certs. |
Offer Day | Watch for your customized compliance checklist! |
Within 72 Hours | Complete background check + medical appointments. |
One Week Out | Double-check everything’s submitted and approved. |
Final 3 Days | Stay alert for last-minute needs from the facility. |
How FlexCare Makes Compliance Easy
You focus on the patients—we’ll handle the paperwork. From first offer to final checklist, FlexCare keeps your compliance journey smooth, simple, and on track.
One Personal Guide
No handoffs. No confusion. Your recruiter walks you through every step.
Clinical Services Team
Our experts know the drill. Seriously—they’ve been in your shoes.
FlexCare App
Upload, track, and store everything in one place. Plus, use our Compliance Resource Library (coming soon!) to download state-specific guides.
Think of compliance as your first assignment—nail it, and everything else becomes easier.
Start early. Stay organized. And lean on us whenever you need support. With FlexCare by your side, you’ll show up licensed, cleared, and totally ready to make an impact (and explore your new city while you’re at it!).
From compliance to travel prep, your recruiter is here to make sure nothing gets missed.