How to Transfer Your RN License to Virginia (2026 Guide)

Navigating the Nurse Licensure Compact in Virginia

If you are relocating to Virginia as a registered nurse, your first step is determining how your current state license interacts with Virginia law. Virginia is a long-standing member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This multistate agreement allows nurses to practice across state lines using a single multistate license, provided their primary state of residence remains in a compact jurisdiction.

If you currently hold an active, unencumbered multistate RN license in another compact state, you do not need to apply for a new license before you pack your bags. You can legally start working at a Virginia healthcare facility on day one using your home state license. However, this flexibility depends entirely on your primary state of residence (PSOR).

Once you relocate permanently to Virginia, you must change your PSOR. Under NLC rules, when you move to a new compact state and declare it as your primary home, you have a 60-day grace period from the time you establish residency to obtain a Virginia multistate license. Establishing residency includes actions like purchasing a home, signing a long-term lease, registering to vote, or obtaining a Virginia driver's license. Once that 60-day window closes, your former state's multistate license reverts to a single-state license valid only in that state, and you must have your Virginia license in hand to continue working.

If you are moving to Virginia from a non-compact state, the rules are simpler: you must apply for a Virginia RN license by endorsement before you can legally practice nursing inside the state borders.

Virginia Board of Nursing Requirements for Endorsement

The state entity responsible for issuing and regulating nursing credentials is the Virginia Board of Nursing, which operates under the umbrella of the Virginia Department of Health Professions. To qualify for a Virginia RN license by endorsement, you must satisfy several specific statutory criteria set by the Board.

The Board requires that you hold a current, active RN license in another US state or territory and that you have passed the NCLEX-RN examination. Your initial nursing education must meet state standards, meaning you must have completed an approved professional nursing program leading to an associate degree, diploma, or baccalaureate degree in nursing.

Virginia law requires a mandatory criminal background check for all initial endorsement applicants. This involves submitting a full set of fingerprints for state and federal background checks through the state's contracted vendor. Additionally, you must be prepared to submit proof of your primary state of residence if you are applying for a multistate license under the compact guidelines.

• State Regulatory Body: Virginia Board of Nursing (Department of Health Professions)
• Primary Application Method: Application for Licensure by Endorsement (online portal)
• Key Requirement: Verification of original license via NURSYS or paper form
• Background Check: Mandatory fingerprint-based FBI and state criminal history check
• Primary Residence Verification: Declaration of PSOR with supporting documentation

Step-by-Step Application Process and Documentation

To transfer your license efficiently, follow this exact sequence to ensure the Virginia Board of Nursing receives your documents in the proper order and without delay.

First, access the Virginia Department of Health Professions Online Licensing portal. Create your user account and select the application for Registered Nurse by Endorsement. Fill out all personal, educational, and background information accurately. Pay the non-refundable application fee at the time of submission.

Second, request verification of your original license. If your original state of licensure participates in NURSYS, visit the NURSYS website and request a verification report sent directly to Virginia. If your original state does not participate in NURSYS, you must download the official verification form from the Virginia Board of Nursing website, mail it to your original state board, and have them send the verified record directly to Virginia.

Third, complete your fingerprints. After you submit your online application, the Board will provide instructions and a specific code for scheduling a fingerprint appointment with Fieldprint, the state's approved fingerprinting vendor. If you are completing this process from outside Virginia prior to your move, Fieldprint has participating locations nationwide where you can complete the digital live scan.

Fourth, submit proof of your primary state of residence. To receive a Virginia multistate compact license, you must upload documentation showing Virginia as your primary residence. Acceptable proof includes a current Virginia driver's license, a voter registration card, a state income tax return listing Virginia as the primary residence, or military Form DD-2058.

Fees, Processing Timelines, and Temporary Permits

Budgeting for your license transfer involves a few distinct costs paid to different organizations. The application fee paid directly to the Virginia Board of Nursing for an endorsement application is $190. You must also pay NURSYS a standard verification fee, which is currently $30 per state board reported.

The criminal background check involves a fee paid directly to Fieldprint, which typically ranges from $45 to $55 depending on state vendor fees. Always confirm exact costs on the Virginia Board of Nursing site prior to submission, as administrative fees can be updated periodically.

Under normal operating conditions, the Virginia Board of Nursing processes complete endorsement applications within 3 to 6 weeks after receiving all required documents, including fingerprint results and official verifications. Peak moving seasons in late spring and summer can extend processing times slightly.

If you need to start working before your permanent license is issued, Virginia offers a temporary authorization permit. You can request a temporary permit during the online application process. To qualify for a 90-day temporary permit, the Board must receive your completed application, the $190 fee, and proof that you hold an active, unencumbered license in another jurisdiction. A temporary permit allows you to practice while your national background check and official primary license verifications are pending.

What People Get Wrong When Moving to Virginia as an RN

Avoid these common, costly missteps when completing your transfer:

• Assuming compact status lasts indefinitely: Relying on your prior state's compact license without declaring your new residency in Virginia after the 60-day window expires, leading to an lapsed right to practice.
• Delaying fingerprint registration: Waiting weeks after submitting your application to schedule a Fieldprint appointment, which freezes your application file in pending status.
• Submitting unofficial transcripts: Sending personal copies of educational diplomas or transcripts directly, rather than having official credentials issued by your nursing school if requested by the Board.
• Failing to report previous administrative actions: Neglecting to disclose minor disciplinary warnings, consent orders, or expired license holds from other states, which triggers automatic fraud investigations and lengthy delays.
• Ignoring local state income tax changes: Forgetting that Virginia imposes a progressive state income tax with a top rate of 5.75%, which can impact net pay expectations compared to states without income tax.

Navigating Your Career Transition in Virginia

Moving your professional practice requires clear planning around both licensure logistics and cost of living. Unlike some rural states, Virginia offers no statewide public programs that pay individuals directly to move to the state. Any relocation incentives, sign-on bonuses, or moving assistance must come directly from individual hospital systems, private healthcare providers, or regional health networks.

When planning your budget for your new nursing role, take into account state taxes. Virginia collects a progressive state income tax, with brackets climbing to a top rate of 5.75%. Factor this tax structure into your overall compensation analysis when comparing job offers in different Virginia metropolitan regions, such as Northern Virginia, Richmond, or Hampton Roads.

Next Steps for Your Nursing Move to Virginia

Getting your endorsement paperwork started early is the best way to prevent gap periods in your employment. Before you start your application, check the Virginia page to access the nurse aide registry details, review the progressive tax table, and browse live openings across major health systems statewide. Building your free profile on Workmerica puts your credentials in front of top Virginia healthcare employers who are actively looking to hire qualified nurses moving from out of state.