State Practice Authority
Understand NP and PA scope of practice, supervision requirements, and licensure compacts across all 50 states. Make informed decisions about where to practice.
Practice Authority Overview
State practice authority varies significantly across the United States. Some states grant full practice authority (FPA) to NPs, allowing them to evaluate, diagnose, order tests, and prescribe medications independently. Other states require varying levels of physician collaboration or supervision.
Understanding these regulations is crucial for career planning, licensing decisions, and evaluating job opportunities.
Full Practice Authority
27States where NPs can practice independently without physician oversight
Reduced Practice Authority
14States requiring physician collaboration agreements
Restricted Practice Authority
9States requiring physician supervision
Explore by State
FQHC Facility Map
Explore community health centers across the country on an interactive map. Filter by state, view open positions, and find facilities near you.
State Practice Guides
Detailed guides for all 50 states plus DC covering practice authority, licensing requirements, scope of practice, and FQHC job listings by state.
Multi-State Licensure Compacts
APRN Compact
Active in 43 states
Multi-state licensure for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses
Learn more →PA Licensure Compact
Enacted in 13 states
Interstate licensure compact for Physician Associates
Learn more →Key Considerations When Evaluating States
For Nurse Practitioners
- •Full practice authority vs. collaboration requirements
- •Prescriptive authority for controlled substances
- •APRN Compact participation status
- •Transition-to-practice requirements
For Physician Associates
- •Scope of practice and delegation agreements
- •Supervision vs. collaboration models
- •PA Licensure Compact eligibility
- •Prescribing authority and DEA registration
Authoritative Resources
For Nurse Practitioners
- AANP State Practice Environment Map →
Interactive map showing full, reduced, and restricted practice states
- NCSBN APRN Compact Information →
Official APRN Compact details and participating states
For Physician Associates
- AAPA State Laws & Practice Environment →
Comprehensive state-by-state PA practice regulations
- PA Licensure Compact →
Status updates and implementation timeline