Are you considering becoming a travel nurse? Travel nursing is an exciting career that offers flexibility, the opportunity to explore new places, and higher earning potential than traditional nursing roles. However, it’s essential to understand the travel nurse requirements and the steps needed to start this exciting career path. Let's break down the path to becoming a travel nurse, explain what travel nurses do, and discuss the typical qualifications needed to be a travel nurse.
What Do Travel Nurses Do?
While their day-to-day responsibilities are similar to those of other registered nurses, travel nurses often take on short-term assignments in health care facilities experiencing staff shortages. This means you normally work in hospitals, clinics, or specialty care centers across the country, filling various nursing roles depending on what the facility needs.
As a travel nurse, you’ll need to adapt quickly to new environments, integrate into existing teams, and manage patient care just as any full-time nurse would. The variety of assignments can range from working in an emergency room in one city to providing critical care in another. The adaptability and versatility of travel nurses are what make them so valuable in today’s health care system.
Educational Requirements for Becoming a Travel Nurse
To become a travel nurse, you must first be a licensed registered nurse (RN). This process begins by completing a nursing program, which can be an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). While both degrees will allow you to become an RN, having a BSN may open more doors, as many staffing agencies and health care facilities prefer nurses with a four-year degree.
After graduating from an accredited nursing program, you’ll need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and apply for licensure in your home state. Meeting these travel nurse requirements is just the beginning, as you’ll also need to consider licensure in the states where you plan to work. It is also advisable to gain some hands-on experience before becoming a traveling nurse.
Travel Nurse License Requirements
Licensure is an important consideration for travel nurses. Thanks to the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), licensed RNs in participating states can practice in other compact states without applying for separate licenses. This multi-state agreement streamlines the process for travel nurses, making it easier to accept assignments across state lines.
What Are eNLC States?
The eNLC is an agreement that allows nurses to hold a multi-state license, enabling them to practice in all compact states. 39 states have adopted the eNLC, including Texas, Florida, North Carolina, and Tennessee. As long as your primary residence is part of the eNLC, you can work in any other eNLC state without obtaining an additional license.
What About Non-NLC States?
You'll need to apply for state-specific licensure to work in a state that isn’t part of the eNLC, such as California, New York, or Washington. This process typically involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and meeting unique state requirements, such as continuing education or background checks. Some non-compact states offer temporary or expedited licenses that can allow you to begin working more quickly. However, these are usually short-term solutions and require a full licensure application to continue working beyond the temporary period.
Additional Travel Nurse Qualifications
In addition to being a licensed RN, many travel nursing agencies require candidates to have at least two years of clinical experience. This experience ensures that travel nurses can handle the different demands and fast-paced environments.
While there are no specific travel nurse qualifications beyond standard RN credentials, obtaining additional certifications can significantly enhance your job prospects. Popular certifications include Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), and more specialized certifications like Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) or Certified Critical Care Nurse (CCRN).
Travel Nurse Salary and Benefits
One of the most appealing aspects of travel nursing is the potential for higher pay. On average, a travel nurse's salary is higher than a traditional RN’s salary. While salaries can vary depending on location, specialty, and staffing agency, the average annual salary for travel nurses in the U.S. is around $101,000 according to ZipRecruiter. This comes with a normal salary range between $74,000 and $123,000 a year.
Keep in mind that a travel nurse's salary may also be affected by additional expenses like temporary housing, transportation, and health insurance. Some agencies offer benefits packages that include housing stipends and health insurance, but it’s important to understand the compensation structure and any additional costs you might incur.
Steps to Becoming a Travel Nurse
Now that you understand the basics, let’s outline the steps to become a travel nurse:
- Complete a Nursing Program: Earn an ASN or BSN from an accredited institution.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN: Successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination to obtain your RN license.
- Gain Clinical Experience: Work as an RN for a minimum of two years to build the skills and expertise needed for travel nursing.
- Apply for Multi-State Licensure (if applicable): Consider obtaining licensure through the Nurse Licensure Compact to increase your flexibility in choosing assignments.
- Work with a Reputable Staffing Agency: Choose an agency that aligns with your career goals and offers support throughout your assignments.
- Obtain Additional Certifications: While not mandatory, specialized certifications can make you a more competitive candidate.
Benefits of Becoming a Travel Nurse
Becoming a travel nurse offers unique benefits that make it an attractive career choice:
- Flexibility: As a travel nurse, you have the freedom to choose where and when you want to work, allowing you to create a schedule that best fits your lifestyle and preferences.
- Travel Opportunities: Travel nursing offers the chance to explore new cities, states, or even countries while doing what you love—caring for patients in diverse health care settings.
- Career Growth: By working in different health care environments, you can gain diverse experiences that enhance your skills and qualifications, making you a well-rounded nursing professional.
- High Earning Potential: Due to the high demand for travel nurses, you have the opportunity to earn a higher salary than the average RN, making it a lucrative career path.
Ready to Start Your Journey as a Travel Nurse?
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a travel nurse, it’s time to take the next steps. Consider enrolling in a nursing program at AdventHealth University to earn your Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and get started on becoming a successful travel nurse. Contact us to learn more about our nursing programs and how we can help you achieve your career goals!
