Travel Healthcare Licensing Guide
Licensing can be tricky—we’re here to make it easier.
Contact a recruiterLicensing isn’t always simple—we get it. Every state has its own rules, timelines, and acronyms, and just figuring out where you qualify can feel like a full-time job. That’s why we created this guide: To give you a quick look at what matters, help you avoid last-minute surprises, and show you how FlexCare supports you through every step. Whether you’re travel-curious or ready to submit, we’ll help you understand your options so you can move forward with confidence.
Before you dive in, know the difference:
- License: Your legal permission to practice, issued by the state. No license = no assignment.
- Certification: Specialty credentials (like CCRN or CEN) that boost your skills and market value, but don’t replace a license.
Best case? You’ve got both. It opens doors to better pay and more job options.
Every state runs its own licensure process—and they don’t always play nice.
- Paperwork, fees, background checks, and continuing education requirements vary widely.
- Always check the latest info on the state board’s website, or ask your recruiter for the most current checklist.
Unsure Where You’re Eligible to Work?
Chat with a FlexCare recruiter to get clear on licensure and next steps
NLC, PT Compact & OT Compact Explained
If you’re eligible, compacts are the best travel hack in the game.
| Profession | Compact | Current Footprint (June 2025) | What It Means for Travelers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing | Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) | 43 participating jurisdictions | One multistate license lets RNs work wherever the NLC is implemented. |
| Physical Therapy | PT Compact | 31 active member states | Buy a compact privilege instead of a full license for each state. |
| Occupational Therapy | OT Compact | 31 enacted states; full rollout late 2025 | Confirm activation before accepting OT contracts. |
Quick Tip: Quick Tip: Make sure a state is active—not just enacted—before you sign an offer.
Read our in-depth guide to compact states here.
Research first. Check each state board or lean on your recruiter for updated forms and fingerprint details.
Work backward from your start date. Some states can take 6-8 weeks to process your paperwork; California and New York often run longer.
Keep digital copies handy. Save PDFs of every license, CEU certificate, background‑check receipt, and transcript so you can upload them in seconds.
Leverage your network. Use traveler forums to stay updated on processing delays or quirks.
Pro Tip: The FlexCare App lets you store all your paperwork in one spot.
My Travel Portal
Licensing isn’t one-and-done—especially with new contracts.
- Most facilities require assessments (Relias, med math, dysrhythmia) before you can start.
- Think of them as mini-renewals: block out study time, ask for prep tools, and treat them seriously.
Keep all your paperwork in one place and get alerts on the best opportunities nationwide