Before you can hit the ground running, there’s some behind-the-scenes magic to make it all official. Licenses, health records, learning modules—compliance is how you prove you’re ready to care for patients on day one.
When you travel with FlexCare, we help manage this process from start to finish—reminders, uploads, deadlines, and all. But understanding what’s required puts you in control and helps everything move faster.
Think of compliance as your travel passport: it shows you're qualified, reliable, and ready to walk into any facility with confidence. This guide breaks down each step so you can stay ahead, skip the stress, and start your assignment strong.
Licensure: Know Where You Can Practice
Before accepting a job, you’ll need to hold a valid license for the state where you will work. If you are an RN, confirm whether your destination is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which lets you practice in multiple states with one multistate license. As of June 2025, 43 states have enacted the compact, and Connecticut will implement it later this year.
Tip: For non‑compact states, begin your application 45–60 days in advance to avoid delays.
Work History and References
If you’re ready to get placed ASAP, have these handy when you get on the phone with your recruiter:
- Up‑to‑date résumé
- Completed skills checklist
- Two recent supervisor references
Tip: Upload your paperwork to the FlexCare app to keep everything in one place.
Once you’re ready to be submitted to a job, be ready to submit:
- A physical exam from the past year
- Proof of TB screening and flu shot
- MMR, Varicella, Hep B, and COVID‑19 vaccine records or titers where accepted
Tip: Upload early; lab results can take up to two weeks.
Most facilities require a ten‑panel drug screen and a national background check. Some states, especially California, Florida, and New York, add county‑level checks or fingerprinting.
Tip: Complete all screening and background paperwork within 72 hours of receiving it.
Before day one, consider getting up to speed using e‑learning modules, usually assigned through Relias, HealthStream, or NetLearning. Modules may include:
- EMR tutorials (Epic, Cerner, Meditech)
- Unit‑specific assessments such as ventilator skills for ICU or aseptic technique for OR
- Compliance refreshers on HIPAA, bloodborne pathogens, and workplace violence prevention
Tip: Complete all assignments two weeks before your start date and save the completion certificates for easy access.
2025 Compliance Trends
- Fingerprinting expansions: Georgia and Illinois now require electronic fingerprinting, joining California.
- Digital license wallets: Ten NLC states accept digital nursing credentials, shortening verification time.
- Automated CE reporting: More state boards now receive continuing education hours directly from platforms such as CE Broker and MedBridge.
- Day 1 after offer: Confirm licensure status and submit any state applications.
- Within 72 hours: Schedule drug screen and complete background check forms.
- Within one week: Upload vaccination records and request boosters if needed.
- Two weeks out: Finish all learning modules and store certificates.
- Final three days: Stay alert for last‑minute facility requests or changes.
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 or confusion—your recruiter helps coordinate every step, keeps you updated, and makes sure nothing slips through the cracks.
Clinical Services Team
Our award-winning clinical team has been in your shoes, and can help you navigate all the tricky pieces of compliance.
FlexCare App
Scan, store, and track every document in real time. In‑app alerts warn you before anything expires, and the Compliance Resource Library provides downloadable state guides.
Treat compliance as your first assignment: a checklist that clears the path for a smooth start. Begin early, stay organized, and lean on the resources around you. With solid preparation and FlexCare’s support, you will show up ready to care for patients and explore your new city with peace of mind.
From compliance to travel prep, your recruiter is here to make sure nothing gets missed.