Nurse Licensure Compact

If an LPN chooses to convert to a multistate license in Louisiana, he/she must apply for a conversion. To begin the process to change a single state license to a multistate license, the LPN must meet all NLC requirements and reside in the state of Louisiana.

Once the LPN determines they are eligible, the LPN must:

1. Apply for the multistate license by completing and submitting the Multistate Conversion Application on their Nurse Portal.
2. Apply for a federal background check. Information and forms for a criminal background check can be found on our website. Follow the directions as outlined on the website and print all forms needed for obtaining the background check. Please note that the multistate license process will take several weeks to complete as the results of the FBI background check must be received before final approval of the Multistate Conversion application can be determined.

Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)

The licensure compact, or NLC, is the licensure model that allows registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to have one multistate license, with the privilege to practice in the home state and in other NLC states physically, electronically, and/or telephonically.

Our state is now a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Please take a moment to read the information below about how licensure has changed in our state.

Here is what you need to know:

• Your single state license does not automatically become a multistate license.
• It is not mandatory for you to apply for a multistate license.
• The multistate license allows you to practice physically, electronically and/or telephonically in our state and other states that are members of the NLC.
• Those who currently hold a Louisiana single state license and want a multistate license, must apply for one through the Nurse Portal.
• On the application for a multistate license, you will be required to declare your state of residency. This is the state you consider to be your home and where you pay taxes.
• There are additional requirements for a multistate license. These are called “Uniform Licensure Requirements" (NLC_ULRs). If you do not meet all the ULRs, you do not qualify for a multistate license. If you need to practice across a state border, you can apply for a single state license in that state (or using an active license that has been issued to you by that state.)
• If you practice in other NLC states on your multistate license, you must adhere to the laws and regulations of the state in which you are practicing.
• If you need to practice in a state that is not a member of the NLC, you need a single state license issued from that state regardless of whether you hold a multistate license.
• Your practice takes place where the patient is located. If the patient is located in another state, you need to be licensed to practice in that state.

If you need more information:

• NCSBN provides numerous resources for your use, including written information, videos and infographics.
• For state specific information relative to Louisiana LPNs, see the LSBPNE website.