Is Massachusetts a compact nursing state? Is Connecticut a compact state? What other states may join in 2026? Here's what you should know about which states are currently in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) and what to expect if you're a nurse or nurse traveler living or working in Connecticut or Massachusetts.

Updated January 21, 2026

Great news for travel nurses! The list of Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) states continues to grow, with Pennsylvania and Connecticut officially implementing its membership and other states taking steps to join. Here's what the NLC map looks like in 2026, and what NLC states might be added in the months to come. 

Did you know that you can work in 40 states with just one license, including major travel nursing destinations like Colorado, Florida, Texas, and New England? Here’s everything you need to know about the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), how it can help your career, and how to apply for a compact state nursing license.