What licensure model allows nurses licensed in one state to practice in other states that belong to their regional agreement?

What licensure model allows nurses licensed in one state to practice in other states that belong to their regional agreement?

• A. Mutual Recognition Model for Nursing Licensure
• B. Interstate Practice Model
• C. Compact Licensure Model
• D. Reciprocal Licensure Model

Answer: (A)

The key idea is mutual recognition across a regional group of states. In this model, a nurse is licensed by one state, and that license is recognized by other member states in the regional agreement. This lets the nurse practice in those states without applying for a separate license there, as long as ongoing requirements—such as staying in good standing, meeting renewal and background check standards, and adhering to each state’s scope of practice—are maintained. This arrangement is the framework behind regional nurse licensure compacts, designed to improve mobility and access to care while preserving state-board oversight and patient safety.

The key idea is mutual recognition across a regional group of states. In this model, a nurse is licensed by one state, and that license is recognized by other member states in the regional agreement. This lets the nurse practice in those states without applying for a separate license there, as long as ongoing requirements—such as staying in good standing, meeting renewal and background check standards, and adhering to each state’s scope of practice—are maintained. This arrangement is the framework behind regional nurse licensure compacts, designed to improve mobility and access to care while preserving state-board oversight and patient safety.