Is Nursing Compact (NLC) Legal in Maryland? (2026)
Yes. In Maryland, nursing compact (nlc) is legal. Maryland is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing registered nurses and licensed practical/vocational nurses to practice in other NLC member states with a single multistate license issued by Maryland.. A permit or license is required.
Key facts
- Status
- Legal
- Permit required
- Yes
- Jurisdiction
- Maryland
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
Nursing Compact (NLC) laws in Maryland
Maryland officially joined the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which facilitates multistate practice for registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/VNs). This means that a nurse holding a multistate license issued by the Maryland Board of Nursing can practice in any other NLC member state without needing to obtain additional licenses in those states, as long as they meet the uniform licensure requirements. The NLC aims to remove barriers to practice and increase access to care by streamlining the licensure process for nurses working across state lines. However, nurses must maintain their primary state of residency in Maryland to renew their Maryland-issued multistate license. Nurses who hold a single-state license in Maryland can also convert it to a multistate license if they meet the compact's requirements, which generally include having no felony convictions, no misdemeanor convictions related to the practice of nursing, and passing an English proficiency exam if applicable. The Maryland Board of Nursing is responsible for issuing and regulating these licenses, ensuring compliance with both state and NLC regulations. Nurses who move their primary state of residency from Maryland to another compact state must apply for licensure in the new state of residency.
Frequently asked questions
Is nursing compact (nlc) legal in Maryland for travelers?
For travelers visiting Maryland, nursing compact (nlc) is currently legal. Maryland officially joined the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which facilitates multistate practice for registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/VNs). This means that a nurse holding a multistate license issued by the Maryland Board of Nursing can practice in any other NLC member state without needing to obtain additional licenses in those states, as long as they meet the uniform licensure requirements. The NLC aims to remove barriers to practice and increase access to care by streamlining the licensure process for nurses working across state lines. However, nurses must maintain their primary state of residency in Maryland to renew their Maryland-issued multistate license. Nurses who hold a single-state license in Maryland can also convert it to a multistate license if they meet the compact's requirements, which generally include having no felony convictions, no misdemeanor convictions related to the practice of nursing, and passing an English proficiency exam if applicable. The Maryland Board of Nursing is responsible for issuing and regulating these licenses, ensuring compliance with both state and NLC regulations. Nurses who move their primary state of residency from Maryland to another compact state must apply for licensure in the new state of residency.
Do I need a permit for nursing compact (nlc) in Maryland?
Yes, Maryland requires a permit or license for nursing compact (nlc). Contact the relevant state agency for application details.
Can I transport nursing compact (nlc) through Maryland?
Transport laws for nursing compact (nlc) in Maryland 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 Maryland?
Penalties for nursing compact (nlc) violations in Maryland vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.