Arizona License Overview
Compact / eNLCYes — Compact
Endorsement Fee$150
Typical Timing30 days
NursysYes
Temporary LicenseYes
Board Phone(602) 771-7800
How Long Does It Take?
Typical timing: 30 days.
TGL Recruiter tip: Processing estimates change with fingerprint delays, missing documents, and application volume. Confirm the current timeline with the Board before promising a start date — and always start early.
Step-by-Step Licensing Process
✓ Arizona is an eNLC compact state. Nurses holding a multistate license with Arizona as their primary state of residence, or traveling from another compact primary state, may practice without a separate Arizona license.
Permanent License — Endorsement
- Submit your endorsement application through the Arizona State Board of Nursing online portal and pay the $150 fee.
- Request license verification via Nursys from all states where you have held a license, active or inactive.
- Complete fingerprint-based criminal background check through the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS). Instructions are provided when your application is accepted.
- Provide proof of initial NCLEX passage if not already on file with the Board.
- Processing typically takes approximately 30 days after all materials are received.
Temporary License
- Arizona issues a temporary license valid for 90 days while your permanent license is processed.
- Apply for the temporary license simultaneously with your permanent endorsement application — no separate application is needed.
- Temporary licenses are not renewable; your permanent license must be issued before it expires.
TGL Recruiter tip: Start the licensing process as early as possible — especially for non-compact states, which can take 8–12 weeks. Your TGL recruiter will track your application status and help you time your assignment start date.
Fees
Endorsement application fee is $150. The temporary license is included at no additional cost. Renewal every two years is $150. DPS fingerprint/background fees are separate, typically $22–$25.
Fees change. Always verify current amounts at the official Arizona Board of Nursing website before applying.
License Renewal
Arizona RN licenses renew every two years on the nurse's birthday. Renewal requires no continuing education — Arizona has no CE requirement for RN renewal. Renewal fee is $150.
Important Notes for Travel Nurses
- Arizona is a compact (eNLC) state — multistate license holders from compact primary states may practice without a separate Arizona license.
- Arizona uses a real-time license lookup; facilities often verify your license online before your first shift — ensure your license is active in the system.
- Nurses with any criminal history should contact the Board in advance; Arizona has a pre-application screening process available.
Last reviewed by TGL MedStaff: September 2026 —
Licensing requirements change. Always verify with the
Arizona Board of Nursing.
