Is Nursing Compact (NLC) Legal in Colorado? (2026)
Yes. In Colorado, nursing compact (nlc) is legal. Colorado is a member state of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing registered nurses and licensed practical/vocational nurses who hold a multistate license from another compact state to practice in Colorado without obtaining additional licensure in Colorado..
Key facts
- Status
- Legal
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Colorado
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
Nursing Compact (NLC) laws in Colorado
Colorado fully participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means that a registered nurse (RN) or a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/VN) who holds an active, unencumbered multistate license issued by a compact state is authorized to practice in Colorado, both in person and via telenursing. For a Colorado resident nurse, obtaining a multistate license means they can practice in other NLC member states without needing separate licenses for each state. Nurses must maintain their primary state of residence in a compact state to hold a multistate license. If a nurse changes their primary state of residence from one compact state to another, they must apply for licensure in the new primary state of residence. The multistate license from the former primary state of residence will be inactivated once a license is issued by the new primary state.
Frequently asked questions
Is nursing compact (nlc) legal in Colorado for travelers?
For travelers visiting Colorado, nursing compact (nlc) is currently legal. Colorado fully participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means that a registered nurse (RN) or a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/VN) who holds an active, unencumbered multistate license issued by a compact state is authorized to practice in Colorado, both in person and via telenursing. For a Colorado resident nurse, obtaining a multistate license means they can practice in other NLC member states without needing separate licenses for each state. Nurses must maintain their primary state of residence in a compact state to hold a multistate license. If a nurse changes their primary state of residence from one compact state to another, they must apply for licensure in the new primary state of residence. The multistate license from the former primary state of residence will be inactivated once a license is issued by the new primary state.
Do I need a permit for nursing compact (nlc) in Colorado?
Colorado does not specifically require a permit for nursing compact (nlc), though general regulations apply.
Can I transport nursing compact (nlc) through Colorado?
Transport laws for nursing compact (nlc) in Colorado 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 Colorado?
Penalties for nursing compact (nlc) violations in Colorado vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.