Nurse Licensure Compact

South Dakota is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Nurses who hold a multi-state license (MSL) may practice in other member states without obtaining additional licenses in other NLC member states. To hold a MSL, a nurse must be a resident in a NLC state. 

When applying for a license, be prepared to provide documentation to support residence in South Dakota, examples include a state driver's license or voters registration. 

A nurse who holds a MSL and changes state residence to another NLC member state - must apply for a license in the new party state within 60 days! Review the NLC Moving Scenarios Fact Sheet for more information.

When practicing on a MSL, nurses are accountable to practice according to the laws and regulations of the state where the nurse is practicing or providing care. Practice occurs where the patient is located at the time care is provided, physically or electronically. Nursing practice is not limited to patient care, and includes all nursing practice as defined by each Compact State's practice laws.

Learn more and access free webinars on the NLC's website