Is Nursing Compact (NLC) Legal in Tennessee? (2026)
Yes. In Tennessee, nursing compact (nlc) is legal. Tennessee is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing Tennessee-licensed registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to practice in other NLC member states without obtaining additional licenses in those states..
Key facts
- Status
- Legal
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Tennessee
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
Nursing Compact (NLC) laws in Tennessee
Effective January 1, 2019, Tennessee officially became a member of the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). This means that a nurse with a valid, unencumbered multistate license issued by the Tennessee Board of Nursing can practice physically or electronically in any other NLC member state. Conversely, nurses holding a multistate license from another NLC member state are authorized to practice in Tennessee under the terms of the compact, as long as their primary state of residency remains that issuing state. For nurses whose primary state of residence is Tennessee, they must apply for and maintain a multistate license through the Tennessee Board of Nursing. If a nurse with a Tennessee license moves to another compact state, they are required to apply for licensure in their new primary state of residence. Their Tennessee multistate license will then convert to a single-state license valid only in Tennessee, and they must obtain a new multistate license from their new home state.
Frequently asked questions
Is nursing compact (nlc) legal in Tennessee for travelers?
For travelers visiting Tennessee, nursing compact (nlc) is currently legal. Effective January 1, 2019, Tennessee officially became a member of the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). This means that a nurse with a valid, unencumbered multistate license issued by the Tennessee Board of Nursing can practice physically or electronically in any other NLC member state. Conversely, nurses holding a multistate license from another NLC member state are authorized to practice in Tennessee under the terms of the compact, as long as their primary state of residency remains that issuing state. For nurses whose primary state of residence is Tennessee, they must apply for and maintain a multistate license through the Tennessee Board of Nursing. If a nurse with a Tennessee license moves to another compact state, they are required to apply for licensure in their new primary state of residence. Their Tennessee multistate license will then convert to a single-state license valid only in Tennessee, and they must obtain a new multistate license from their new home state.
Do I need a permit for nursing compact (nlc) in Tennessee?
Tennessee does not specifically require a permit for nursing compact (nlc), though general regulations apply.
Can I transport nursing compact (nlc) through Tennessee?
Transport laws for nursing compact (nlc) in Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
Penalties for nursing compact (nlc) violations in Tennessee vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.