Louisiana License Overview
Compact / eNLCYes — Compact
Endorsement Fee$125
Typical Timing30-60 days
NursysYes
Temporary LicenseYes
Board Phone(225) 755-7500
How Long Does It Take?
Typical timing: 30-60 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
✓ Louisiana is an eNLC compact state. Nurses holding a multistate license from a compact primary state may practice in Louisiana without a separate license.
Permanent License — Endorsement
- Apply online through the Louisiana State Board of Nursing portal and pay the $125 fee.
- Request license verification via Nursys. Louisiana participates in Nursys.
- Complete a fingerprint-based background check — Louisiana uses Louisiana State Police (LSP) for in-state applicants. Out-of-state applicants may use an authorized FBI provider.
- Processing typically takes 30–60 days.
Temporary License
- Louisiana offers a temporary authorization while your endorsement is under review.
- Request the temporary authorization with your endorsement application.
- The temporary authorization is typically valid for 90 days.
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 fee is $125. Temporary authorization is included. Biennial renewal is $75. Background check fees are separate.
Fees change. Always verify current amounts at the official Louisiana Board of Nursing website before applying.
License Renewal
Louisiana RN licenses renew biennially. Renewal requires 30 hours of continuing education per renewal period. Renewal fee is $75.
Important Notes for Travel Nurses
- Louisiana is a compact (eNLC) state — nurses with a multistate license from a compact home state may practice without endorsement.
- The Board requires attestation of lawful presence in the US at time of application.
- Louisiana nurses must complete specific CE on Louisiana nursing law — verify requirements for your renewal cycle.
Last reviewed by TGL MedStaff: September 2026 —
Licensing requirements change. Always verify with the
Louisiana Board of Nursing.
