Becoming a travel nurse opens the door to adventure, professional growth, competitive pay, and exploring new cities while doing what you love. If you’ve just graduated from nursing school or are considering a career as a travel nurse, this guide will walk you through each essential step to get started.
Graduate from an Accredited Nursing Program
The first step is completing your nursing education. You’ll need either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited school. While both qualify you for the NCLEX-RN, some hospitals prefer BSN-prepared nurses, especially for travel roles.
Tip: Choose a program with strong clinical rotations. This experience will build your confidence and your resume.
Pass the NCLEX-RN
After graduation, the next milestone is passing the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed Registered Nurse. It is required in all states. Learn more about the NCLEX and preparing for your nursing career.
What to Do:
- Register with Pearson VUE and your state board of nursing.
- Study using prep courses, books, and practice exams.
- Take the test as soon as you feel ready.
Gain 1-2 Years of Clinical Experience
Most hospitals require at least 12 months of bedside experience in your specialty before taking a travel assignment. This foundation is critical for success in travel nursing, where you’ll be expected to hit the ground running in unfamiliar environments.
Popular Specialties for Travel Nurses:
- Med/Surg
- ER
- Labor & Delivery
- OR
- Psych/Corrections
Tip: If unsure about your specialty, start in a float pool or Medical/surgical unit to build diverse skills. Learn more about getting started as a new grad.
Obtain Licensure in a Compact State (If Eligible)
If your home state is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), your single license will allow you to practice in over 40 states without additional licenses. If not, you must apply for licensure by endorsement in each state where you want to work.
Having compact state licensure dramatically simplifies the process of accepting assignments across the country. Discover the perks of compact nursing licenses.
Research and Choose a Travel Nurse Agency
Partnering with the right healthcare staffing agency makes all the difference in your travel nursing career. Take time to compare options.
Look for Agencies That Offer:
- Dedicated recruiters
- Competitive pay packages
- License reimbursement
- Housing assistance or stipends
- Healthcare and retirement benefits
Tip: Talk to other travel nurses or read reviews before committing to an agency. The timeline from application to placement varies, so understanding how long it takes to get a travel nursing job can help you plan accordingly.
Get Credentialed and Ready to Travel
Before your first assignment, you’ll need to submit your credentials. This will include:
- Current resume
- BLS/ACLS (or specialty-specific certifications)
- Immunization records
- Background check and drug screen
- References
The credentialing process can take several weeks, so start gathering documents early to avoid delays.
Accept Your First Assignment
Once you’re offered a position, review the contract carefully. Confirm the following details:
- Start/end dates
- Weekly hours and shift details
- Pay breakdown (base, stipends, overtime)
- Cancellation and housing policies
Never hesitate to ask questions. A clear understanding of your contract protects you, the agency, and the employer. AB Staffing Recruiters are here to help you every step of your travel nursing journey.
Pack Your Bags and Start Your Travel Nursing Journey
Once your contract is signed and you are cleared by the facility and your recruiter, it’s time to hit the road! Most travel assignments last 13 weeks, with the opportunity to extend the contract or move on to a new destination.
Don’t Forget to Pack:
- Professional gear (scrubs, stethoscope, etc.)
- Travel documents
- Comfortable clothes and personal items for your new location
Need help preparing? Check out this comprehensive travel nurse packing list to ensure you’re ready for anything.
Your Path Forward
Becoming a travel nurse after nursing school requires planning, patience, and preparation. From gaining clinical experience to choosing the right agency, each step brings you closer to an exciting and rewarding career. The journey may seem lengthy, yet the personal and professional rewards make it worthwhile. Ready to explore your options? Start building your experience, researching agencies, and taking the first steps toward your travel nursing adventure today.
