What is the status of the APRN Compact?
Similar to the existing NLC for recognition of RN and LPN licenses, the separate APRN Compact offers states the mechanism for mutually recognizing APRN licenses/authority to practice. This is a significant step forward for increasing access and accessibility to qualified APRNs. A state must be an operational member of the NLC for RNs and LPNs before entering into the APRN Compact. A state must adopt both compacts to cover LPNs/RNs and APRNs for mutual recognition. The Uniform APRN Licensure/Authority to Practice Requirements, developed by NCSBN with APRN stakeholders in 2000, establishes the foundation for this APRN Compact. At this time only Utah has adopted the APRN Compact, but various legislative bills have been introduced in recent years, and several states have indicated a desire to adopt the APRN compact within the next 2-3 years.
