Nurse licensing and credentials for per-diem shifts
Credentials are the first question every facility asks about per-diem staffing. Here is how licensing works for the clinicians who pick up shifts, in plain language. This is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so confirm details with your state board or a healthcare attorney.
RNs and LPNs/LVNs: the Nurse Licensure Compact
The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) lets a nurse hold one multistate license, issued by their primary state of residence, and practice in other compact states. If either state is not a compact member, the nurse needs a license for the state where the shift takes place. Membership changes, so check the current list at nursecompact.com.
CNAs: state by state
There is no compact for nurse aides. Each state keeps its own registry, and working in a new state usually means applying for reciprocity or endorsement there.
The rule that matters
The clinician needs a valid credential for the state where the patient is receiving care, not just the state where they live.
What facilities should check before every shift
- The license or certification is active and not expired.
- It is valid for the state where the shift takes place.
- There are no restrictions, encumbrances or disciplinary actions on record.
- Any other requirements your facility or state applies, such as background checks, health screening and CPR certification, are current.
Where to verify
- RNs and LPNs/LVNs: Nursys primary-source verification, or the state board of nursing.
- CNAs: the nurse aide registry in the state of the shift.
For clinicians
Keep your license details current and only accept shifts in states where you hold a valid credential. If you are not sure whether your license covers a state, check with that state's board before you accept.
Frequently asked questions
Can a nurse licensed in one state work a shift in another?
It depends on the license and the states involved. RNs and LPNs/LVNs with a multistate license issued by a Nurse Licensure Compact state may be able to practice in other compact states. Otherwise the clinician needs a license for the state where the shift takes place. Check the current compact member list at nursecompact.com.
Is there a compact for CNAs?
No. Each state keeps its own nurse aide registry, and working in another state generally means applying through that state's reciprocity or endorsement process.
Whose license counts, the state the clinician lives in or the state of the shift?
The rules of the state where the patient is receiving care apply. A multistate license is issued by the clinician's primary state of residence, and it is honored in other compact states.
Who is responsible for checking credentials?
The facility remains responsible for confirming that every clinician it uses holds a valid, active credential for the shift. Facilities can use Nursys for RN and LPN license verification and the relevant state registry for CNAs.
Does Mellendith Shift guarantee a clinician is licensed?
Mellendith Shift is software that helps facilities manage and fill per-diem shifts. Facilities should verify credentials themselves before each clinician works. See our terms for details.