Is Nursing Compact (NLC) Legal in Arkansas? (2026)
Yes. In Arkansas, nursing compact (nlc) is legal. Arkansas is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing registered nurses and licensed practical nurses with a multistate license to practice in Arkansas without obtaining an additional Arkansas license, and permitting Arkansas-licensed nurses to practice in other NLC member states..
Key facts
- Status
- Legal
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Arkansas
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
Nursing Compact (NLC) laws in Arkansas
Arkansas became a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) on July 1, 2000, and is currently part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). This means that nurses holding an unencumbered multistate license from another eNLC member state can legally practice nursing in Arkansas. Conversely, nurses whose primary state of residence is Arkansas and who hold a multistate Arkansas license are authorized to practice in other eNLC member states without needing to obtain additional licenses in those states. To be eligible for an Arkansas multistate license, a nurse must declare Arkansas as their primary state of residence and meet all Arkansas licensure requirements, which may include background checks and fingerprinting. Nurses living in Arkansas who obtained a single-state license before the state joined the eNLC may need to apply to convert it to a multistate license if they wish to practice in other compact states. The Arkansas State Board of Nursing is responsible for the issuance and regulation of nursing licenses in the state.
Frequently asked questions
Is nursing compact (nlc) legal in Arkansas for travelers?
For travelers visiting Arkansas, nursing compact (nlc) is currently legal. Arkansas became a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) on July 1, 2000, and is currently part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). This means that nurses holding an unencumbered multistate license from another eNLC member state can legally practice nursing in Arkansas. Conversely, nurses whose primary state of residence is Arkansas and who hold a multistate Arkansas license are authorized to practice in other eNLC member states without needing to obtain additional licenses in those states. To be eligible for an Arkansas multistate license, a nurse must declare Arkansas as their primary state of residence and meet all Arkansas licensure requirements, which may include background checks and fingerprinting. Nurses living in Arkansas who obtained a single-state license before the state joined the eNLC may need to apply to convert it to a multistate license if they wish to practice in other compact states. The Arkansas State Board of Nursing is responsible for the issuance and regulation of nursing licenses in the state.
Do I need a permit for nursing compact (nlc) in Arkansas?
Arkansas does not specifically require a permit for nursing compact (nlc), though general regulations apply.
Can I transport nursing compact (nlc) through Arkansas?
Transport laws for nursing compact (nlc) in Arkansas depend on the specific item and your route. Generally, transport is allowed if you comply with state regulations. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for nursing compact (nlc) violations in Arkansas?
Penalties for nursing compact (nlc) violations in Arkansas vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.