Gorgeous glaciers, abundant wilderness, and the adventure of a lifetime--these are just a few of the reasons why nurses choose to experience life as a travel nurse in Alaska. But the first question that may arise when thinking about a travel nursing career in Alaska is, “How do I transfer my nursing license to Alaska?”
And the answer isn’t as complicated as you might expect.
How to Apply for a Nursing License in Alaska
The Alaska Board of Nursing allows Registered Nurses to apply for an Alaska RN license by Endorsement. Registered nurses who are not already licensed in another state must apply by Examination.
According to the Alaska Board of Nursing, the application may be filed through the creation of a MyAlaska account, and is submitted directly to staff. Every application is reviewed within 15 days, and the whole process usually takes 4-5 weeks.
The general qualification for Alaska nursing licensure by endorsement is:
A nurse must hold a current license in another state to be eligible for a nursing license by endorsement in Alaska. This license must be current at the time the board issues the permanent license. Inactive status is not a current license.
If a nurse meets those criteria, they can apply for a license by following the steps outlined below:
1. Submit a completed online application, including payment of fees. The fees are: $375.00 total ($100.00 nonrefundable application fee, $200.00 license fee, and $75.00 fingerprint processing fee)
2. Submit a Notarized Signature Page.
3. Obtain Fingerprinting & Background Reports.
4.Verify the initial license from the state or Canadian province that originally issued it.
5. Verify the hours worked. Alaska nursing license verification requires at least 320 hours of employment in a nursing capacity within the two years before the date the application is received by the Board.
Renewing an Alaska Nurse License?
Renewing a nursing license in Alaska is also an easy process to get on the road to being a travel nurse. A nurse must renew their license on or before the expiration date to continue to practice nursing in Alaska.
The requirements for nursing license renewal are met by completing two of the following items:
- 30 contact hours of continuing education
- 60 hours of participation in uncompensated professional activities
- 320 hours of employment as an RN or LPN
If a nurse already has an Alaska nursing license that is expired or lapsed, then they must apply for reinstatement.
Is Alaska a Nursing Compact State?
As of right now, Alaska does not issue temporary licenses and does not take part in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The state is currently pending legislation for NLC. Visit the NCSBN site to see a full list of states participating in the NLC and for more information on the compact.
Complete the form to the right to be considered for travel nursing jobs in the great state of Alaska.
Questions?