Pennsylvania License Overview
Compact / eNLCNo — Non-Compact
Endorsement Fee$100
Typical Timing8-12 weeks
NursysYes
Temporary LicenseNo / See BON
Board Phone(717) 783-7142
How Long Does It Take?
Typical timing: 8-12 weeks.
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
ℹ Pennsylvania is a non-compact state. A separate Pennsylvania RN license is required to practice there.
Permanent License — Endorsement
- Apply online through the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing online portal and pay the $100 fee.
- Request license verification via Nursys. Pennsylvania participates in Nursys.
- Complete a background check — Pennsylvania requires a criminal history record from the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) and an FBI check through an authorized vendor.
- Processing typically takes 8–12 weeks — Pennsylvania is a high-volume state.
Temporary License
- Pennsylvania does not issue temporary licenses for endorsement applicants. Plan your assignment start around the 8–12 week processing window.
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 $100. No temporary license available. Biennial renewal is $65. Background check fees are additional.
Fees change. Always verify current amounts at the official Pennsylvania Board of Nursing website before applying.
License Renewal
Pennsylvania RN licenses renew biennially. No continuing education is required (verify current requirements). Renewal fee is $65.
Important Notes for Travel Nurses
- Pennsylvania is a non-compact state — a separate Pennsylvania license is required regardless of home state.
- No temporary license is available — do not plan a Pennsylvania start before your license is confirmed active.
- Philadelphia and Pittsburgh health systems are major travel nursing markets with close license verification.
Last reviewed by TGL MedStaff: September 2026 —
Licensing requirements change. Always verify with the
Pennsylvania Board of Nursing.
