Nursing license status glossary
Status wording is controlled by the issuing jurisdiction. This glossary explains common meanings but never overrides the definition shown by the state board.
Active
The issuing authority currently recognizes the license as active, subject to any restrictions shown in the record.
Active — multistate
The nurse holds an NLC multistate license from the primary state of residence; eligibility and remote-state practice rules still apply.
Single-state
Authority is limited to the issuing jurisdiction and is not an NLC multistate privilege.
Inactive
The credential exists but generally does not authorize active practice. Reactivation requirements vary.
Expired or lapsed
The renewal period ended without a current renewal. The nurse generally must not practice until authorized again.
Delinquent
A jurisdiction-specific status often indicating renewal is late and additional fees or steps apply.
Suspended
Practice authority has been temporarily removed by an order or legal event. Read the public order.
Revoked
The licensing authority has withdrawn the credential. Reapplication or reinstatement may be unavailable or restricted.
Probation or restricted
The license may remain active under conditions, monitoring, limits or an order. Read the complete public document.
Pending
An application or transaction has not reached final issuance. Pending is not permission to practice unless a separate permit is active.
Temporary permit
Time-limited practice authority issued under state-specific eligibility rules. Confirm the expiration and scope.
Retired
A non-practicing status created by some states; it normally does not authorize ordinary nursing practice.
Read the entire current primary-source record, including credential type, expiration, restrictions and discipline. A label alone can be misleading.