West Virginia License Overview
Compact / eNLCYes — Compact
Endorsement Fee$100
Typical Timing30-60 days
NursysYes
Temporary LicenseYes
Board Phone(304) 558-3572
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
✓ West Virginia is an eNLC compact state. Nurses holding a multistate license from a compact primary state may practice in West Virginia without a separate license.
Permanent License — Endorsement
- Apply online through the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses portal and pay the $100 fee.
- Request license verification via Nursys. West Virginia participates in Nursys.
- Submit fingerprints for a background check — West Virginia uses the WV State Police (WVSP) or an authorized FBI provider for out-of-state applicants.
- Processing typically takes 30–60 days.
Temporary License
- West Virginia offers a temporary permit valid for 90 days.
- Request the temporary permit with your endorsement application.
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. Temporary permit is included. Biennial renewal is $100. Background check fees are separate.
Fees change. Always verify current amounts at the official West Virginia Board of Nursing website before applying.
License Renewal
West Virginia RN licenses renew biennially. No continuing education is required (verify current requirements). Renewal fee is $100.
Important Notes for Travel Nurses
- West Virginia is a compact (eNLC) state — nurses with a multistate license from a compact home state may practice without endorsement.
- West Virginia has consistent travel nurse demand, particularly in rural critical access hospitals.
- The Board's online lookup is available for facility verification.
Last reviewed by TGL MedStaff: September 2026 —
Licensing requirements change. Always verify with the
West Virginia Board of Nursing.
