How you transfer your license to another state depends very much on whether the state is a non-compact or compact state.
Transfer a license from a non-compact to a compact state. Here you must apply for licensure by endorsement in the new state of residency. Your non-compact state license will not be affected during nurse registry so long as you continue to meet the requirements for licensure - that is, completing any relevant education hours and training by the deadline.
Transfer a license from a compact to a non-compact state. Here, again, you need to apply for a new license by endorsement in the non-compact state. However, if you’re coming from a compact state, your new license will only apply to the state where you practice. When you move, you need to notify the nursing board so they can inactivate your current license.
Transfer a license from a compact to compact state. Here you need to apply for a license between one and two months before you move and pay any fees. At the end of the process, you’ll receive a new “multistate” license permitting you to work outside your home state. You’ll need to provide proof of residency and notify the board of nursing that your residency has changed. As before, the state will inactivate your old license.