Do you ever find that a process that is required to be done a certain way is not seamless? It seems that you just have steps 1-4, but then you find out you have to jump through a hoop between steps 2 and 3, and walk through a fire in order to be eligible for step 4. Swapping my nursing license from Arizona to Virginia has been that process. One would think that since both states are “compact states,” wherein a license in one would allow you to practice in the other, that would make this process pretty seamless. But alas, there are holes. First of all, it is recommended by the state board of nursing that you start the process before you move to your new state…get the ball rolling because it can take some time. Here’s the problem with that. The VA state board requires you to establish residence before they will allow you to apply for a license. They require proof of residence in the form of a driver’s license. Now the DMV requires address verification in the form of a lease agreement, a utility bill, or a pay stub…along with a laundry list of other things, before they will issue said driver’s license. Ok…would not be a big deal. I could just wait to start the process until I move into a residence, so I could get the driver’s license and then get the nursing license, right? Um…no. The AZ state board also requires that you give notification of change of residence WITHIN 30 DAYS of moving, or run the risk of having your license revoked. And, when you do give notice, they inactivate your license. I followed all the rules….and here I sit waiting for my new driver’s license to get mailed to me so I can apply for a VA nursing license, while I got notice this morning that my AZ nursing license has been made inactive. *insert frustrated scream* I really really really hope I don’t have to sit the NCLEX again since I don’t have an active license apparently. I would rather walk through a swarm of bees than have to do THAT again!!