The 2011 Uniform Licensure Requirements for Adoption

In 1999, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) undertook a major initiative to develop minimal licensure requirements and, upon recommendation by an appointed committee and approval of the NCSBN Board of Directors, the 1999 Uniform Licensure Requirements (ULRs) were adopted by the Delegate Assembly. Enactment of these requirements by individual boards of nursing (BONs), however, varied to wide degrees and as a result many variances emerged and uniformity was not achieved. During the 10 years that followed, both intrinsic and extrinsic environmental factors affected the nursing profession and impacted health care delivery, causing major stakeholders to request uniformity among state nursing laws and regulations, especially in regard to licensure. In August 2011, NCSBN's Delegate Assembly adopted the 2011 ULRs to serve as new national standards for registered nurse and licensed practical/vocational nurse licensure across all states and territories. States are urged to adopt the new 2011 ULRs included in this article. Once adopted, they will establish uniformity across all U.S. jurisdictions and ease the portability of nurses in the United States.