USRN License Endorsement

A dedicated team of NEAC processing experts in a professional office, focused on managing USRN License Endorsement application documents for international nurses.

You've passed the NCLEX and earned your US Registered Nurse (USRN) license—a remarkable achievement. But what if your career goals or immigration plans require you to be licensed in a different US state? The solution is not to take the NCLEX again, but to transfer your existing license to a new state through a process called Licensure by Endorsement.


For nurses living outside the United States, this process involves more than just filling out a form. It requires navigating specific state requirements, verification systems, and potential challenges like the Social Security Number (SSN) issue. This definitive guide provides a clear, step-by-step roadmap to successfully endorsing your USRN license from anywhere in the world.

What is License Endorsement and Why Do International Nurses Need It?

License endorsement is the process by which a Board of Nursing (BON) in one US state issues a license to a nurse who is already licensed in another US state. The new board recognizes the validity of your original license and NCLEX pass result, provided you meet all of their specific requirements.

International nurses often endorse their license to:

  • Apply to a state with better job prospects.
  • Meet the requirements of a specific visa sponsor or employer.
  • Move their license from an "SSN-required" state to one that does not require an SSN for licensure.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Endorsing Your USRN License from Overseas

The exact process can vary by state, but it generally follows this essential pathway.

Step 1: Choose Your Target State & Verify Its Requirements

Before you begin, thoroughly research the requirements of the new State Board of Nursing. Visit their official website to check their specific rules for endorsement, including any fees, jurisprudence exams, or fingerprinting requirements. This initial research is critical to a smooth process.

Step 2: The Nursys® Verification Request

Most State Boards of Nursing use Nursys®, the national nurse licensure database, to verify your existing license. Your first official action will be to log into Nursys® and submit a request to have verification of your original license sent directly to your target state's Board of Nursing.

Step 3: Complete the Endorsement Application for the New State

Fill out the "Licensure by Endorsement" application on the new state's BON website. This is where you will provide your personal details, educational background, and information about your original USRN license. Pay the required application fee, typically with a credit card.

Step 4: Fulfill Additional State Requirements

This is the most variable step. The new state will require you to complete additional tasks, which may include:

  • Fingerprint-Based Criminal Background Check: Many states require this. You will need to obtain the correct fingerprint cards, have your prints taken, and submit them to the specified state and federal agencies.
  • Jurisprudence Exam: States like Texas require you to pass an online exam covering their specific state laws and nursing rules.
  • Credential Evaluation (CGFNS): Some states may require nurses educated outside the US to have a CGFNS report, even for endorsement.

Step 5: Receive Your New State License

Once all requirements have been met, all documents have been received, and your background check is clear, the new State Board of Nursing will issue your license. You are then officially a registered nurse in that state.

The Social Security Number (SSN) Challenge

For international nurses without a US Social Security Number, endorsement can be challenging as many states require an SSN. However, several states are known to not require an SSN for license endorsement, making them popular choices. It is vital to confirm a state's current SSN policy before beginning the application process.

Navigating Endorsement Complexities: How We Can Help

The endorsement process for an international nurse is far more complex than for a US resident. Managing fingerprinting from abroad, navigating jurisprudence exams, and dealing with the SSN issue can be overwhelming.

NEAC Medical Exams Center is an expert in managing the USRN license endorsement process for nurses around the globe. We help you choose the right state for your situation, manage the Nursys verification, and guide you through every specific state requirement, from fingerprinting to fee payments. We ensure your application is seamless, so you can achieve your professional goals without unnecessary stress.


Let our experts handle the process, so you can focus on your success.

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For other inquiries, you can email our team at inquiry@medexamcenter.com.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


What is the difference between license renewal and endorsement?

Renewal is the process of keeping your existing license active with the same State Board of Nursing, typically every two years. Endorsement is the process of using your existing license in one state to obtain a new license in a different state.

What is Nursys® and do I have to use it?

Nursys® is the national database for nurse licensure verification, used by the majority of US states. If your original and target states are part of the Nursys® system (most are), you must use it to send verification of your license.

Can I endorse my license to any US state?

Yes, provided you meet all of that specific state's requirements for licensure by endorsement, which can include background checks, specific coursework, or jurisprudence exams.

What is a jurisprudence exam?

A jurisprudence exam is a test on the specific laws, rules, and regulations that govern nursing practice within a particular state. States like Texas require this to ensure you understand their local practice standards.

How do I complete a fingerprint background check from outside the US?

Boards of Nursing provide specific instructions. Typically, you must use an official FBI FD-258 fingerprint card, have your prints taken by a law enforcement agency in your country, and mail the physical card to the designated vendor or state agency in the US.

Will my original USRN license still be active after I endorse it to a new state?

Yes. Endorsement grants you a new license in a second state. It does not cancel your original license. You can hold active licenses in multiple states simultaneously, but you must complete the renewal requirements for each one to keep them active.

How long does the license endorsement process typically take?

The timeline varies greatly by state but can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the board's processing times and the complexity of their requirements (especially background checks).

What is the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)?

The NLC is an agreement between many US states that allows a nurse to have one multistate license and practice in any of the other participating "compact" states. However, to obtain a multistate license, you must legally reside in a compact state. This rule means most international nurses will receive single-state licenses upon endorsement.

Can I endorse my license without a Social Security Number (SSN)?

It depends on the state. Some states absolutely require an SSN for endorsement, while others do not. It is critical to choose a state that does not require an SSN if you do not have one.

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Why is an agency helpful for the endorsement process?

An expert agency like NEAC understands the intricate and varied rules of all 50+ State Boards of Nursing. We can identify the best state for your specific situation (e.g., no SSN required), manage the complex logistics of fingerprinting from abroad, and ensure your application is submitted correctly to avoid costly delays.