How to Transfer Your RN License to Delaware (2026)

Delaware RN Licensing and the Nurse Licensure Compact

If you hold an active registered nurse license in another state and plan to relocate to Delaware, your first step is determining whether your current license carries multistate privileges. Delaware is an active member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This status simplifies the relocation process significantly if you are moving from another NLC state.

If your primary state of residence (PSOR) is currently another compact state and you possess a valid multistate RN license, you can practice in Delaware immediately upon moving. Under NLC regulations, you may practice on your existing multistate license for up to 60 days while establishing Delaware as your primary state of residence and completing the transfer process. You must apply for a Delaware multistate license once you establish residence in the state, such as by acquiring a Delaware driver's license or registering to vote.

If you are relocating from a non-compact state, or if you currently hold only a single-state license, you must apply for a Delaware RN license by endorsement through the state regulatory agency before you can practice. You cannot begin working in a Delaware facility until your endorsement application is approved or you are issued a temporary practice permit.

Applying for Licensure by Endorsement via DELPROS

The official governing body for nursing practice in the state is the Delaware Board of Nursing, which operates under the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation. All license applications, document submissions, and fee payments are handled online through the state's licensing portal, known as DELPROS (Delaware Professional Regulation Online Services).

To transfer your RN license by endorsement, you must set up an account in DELPROS and complete the online application. Gather your required documentation in advance to keep the process moving smoothly. You will need to submit several specific items to verify your credentials:

• DELPROS online account: Register on the portal, select the Board of Nursing, and start a new application for Registered Nurse by Endorsement.
• Official license verification: Submit verification of your original RN license issued by examination, as well as verification of your current active license. Most states use the electronic NURSYS system for this process. If your state does not participate in NURSYS, you must request that your state board send an official verification form directly to Delaware.
• Proof of nursing education: Provide evidence of graduation from an approved nursing education program. Your nursing school must send official transcripts directly to the Board if requested during portal registration.
• Criminal background check: Undergo state and federal criminal history background checks. This involves a fingerprinting process handled through the Delaware State Police or an authorized vendor like IdentoGO.
• Proof of primary state of residence: If you are applying for a Delaware multistate license under the NLC, you must submit proof that Delaware is your main legal residence, such as a Delaware driver's license, utility bill, or voter registration card.
• Practice hours or continuing education: You must verify recent nursing practice. Delaware requires evidence of at least 400 hours of active nursing practice in the past two years, or 1,000 hours in the past five years. If you do not meet this standard, you may need to complete a Board-approved refresher course.

Fees, Background Checks, and Processing Timelines

Budgeting for your license transfer requires accounting for board fees, verification costs, and fingerprinting expenses. State fees can change, so always confirm exact figures on the DELPROS portal before submitting your materials.

• Endorsement application fee: The initial application fee generally falls between $140 and $170. This fee is non-refundable and paid online during application submission.
• Background check costs: Fingerprinting and criminal history processing through state and federal databases typically cost between $65 and $85.
• Verification fees: If using NURSYS for license verification, expect a standard fee around $30 per state verified. Non-NURSYS states may charge separate administrative fees.
• Temporary practice permit: If you need to begin working before your permanent license is fully processed, you can request a temporary permit in DELPROS for an additional fee, usually around $40 to $60.

Processing times depend on how quickly external entities submit your background checks and license verifications. Once all documentation reaches the Board, endorsement processing usually takes between 4 and 8 weeks. If you apply for a temporary permit, it can be issued within 1 to 2 weeks provided your initial background check screening returns clear and your primary license is verified as unencumbered. A temporary permit is valid for up to 90 days.

What People Get Wrong

• Assuming a non-compact license works immediately: Moving from a non-compact state does not give you automatic reciprocity; you cannot practice until Delaware issues your permit or license.
• Delaying primary residence updates: Failing to update your driver's license or tax status to Delaware within 60 days can stall your compact multistate application.
• Submitting out-of-state background checks improperly: Sending basic local police department background checks will result in rejection; you must use the precise FBI card or IdentoGO code provided in the DELPROS portal instructions.
• Overlooking practice hour minimums: Assuming continuous licensure equals active practice can create delays if you cannot document the required 400 hours over the last two years.
• Forgetting state income tax planning: Moving from a no-tax or flat-tax state can catch nurses off guard, as Delaware enforces a progressive state income tax with a top rate of 6.6%.

Income Tax and Practical Delaware Healthcare Facts

Working as a nurse in Delaware involves navigating specific financial and regulatory landscapes unique to the state. When evaluating job offers and potential earnings, keep state-level taxes in mind. Delaware features a progressive state income tax, with rates scaling across brackets up to a top rate of 6.6%. On the positive side, Delaware has no state sales tax, which lowers everyday living expenses.

Healthcare facilities across the state range from large regional health systems like ChristianaCare and Bayhealth to specialized facilities such as Beebe Healthcare and Nemours Children's Health. Depending on your care setting, you may also interact with other state registries. For instance, if you oversee certified nursing assistants or work within long-term care management, the state's nurse aide registry is maintained by the Delaware Division of Health Care Quality, Nurse Aide Registry.

Understanding these institutional dynamics and tax structures helps you evaluate compensation packages accurately when making your transition to the First State.

Take the Next Step in Delaware

Relocating your nursing career requires accurate local information and direct access to active healthcare hiring managers. Visit the Delaware page for the registry, the tax table, and live openings. Creating a free profile puts you directly in front of Delaware employers hiring from out of state.