Understanding Florida Licensure by Endorsement Through The Mobile Statue
For healthcare professionals looking to practice in Florida, obtaining a license can be a complex process. A new pathway is Florida mobile licensure by endorsement, which allows qualified individuals who hold an active license in another state to become licensed in Florida without retaking the full examination. This process is particularly beneficial for nurses and other healthcare providers seeking a streamlined transition to practice in the Sunshine State.
Florida licensure by endorsement applies to various healthcare fields, including nursing, medicine, and other licensed professions. It ensures that professionals who meet the state’s standards can efficiently obtain a Florida license without undue delays or redundant testing. As part of the application process, applicants must submit any necessary, supporting documentation and pay applicable fees to ensure their application is processed. This includes background checks and other application processes, which can cause problems for applicants who have had challenges with their licensing in the past.
What Is Mobile Licensure by Endorsement?
Florida Statute 456.0145, known as the Mobile Opportunity by Interstate Licensure Endorsement (MOBILE) Act, became legal in 2024 and streamlines the licensure process for healthcare professionals from other states. It allows qualified applicants with an active, unencumbered license from another U.S. jurisdiction to obtain a Florida license if they meet certain criteria, such as passing a national exam (if applicable), having recent work experience, and having no disciplinary actions.
The law also outlines ineligibility criteria, including pending complaints, past disciplinary actions, or criminal convictions related to their profession. The statute mandates a licensing decision within seven days and may require applicants to take a state-specific jurisprudence exam. Additionally, the Department of Health must submit an annual report detailing applications, approvals, denials, and disciplinary actions under this act.
Mobile Licensure by Endorsement primarily benefits traveling nurses and other healthcare providers who frequently relocate for work with:
- Faster Processing Times: Reduces administrative delays and enables professionals to start working sooner.
- Convenience for Traveling Professionals: Allows nurses and other healthcare workers to quickly secure a Florida license without returning to their home state for additional paperwork.
- Addressing Healthcare Shortages: Helps fill critical gaps in Florida’s healthcare workforce by expediting the licensing process for out-of-state professionals.
Eligibility for Nursing License Endorsement in Florida
The Mobile Endorsement pathway allows healthcare workers to practice more easily in the Sunshine State if they’re from other states with substantially equivalent licensing requirements. For nurses, the nursing license endorsement in Florida is a particularly valuable process. Whether you’re a registered nurse (RN), licensed practical nurse (LPN), or advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), licensure by endorsement allows you to practice in Florida if you hold a valid, unencumbered license from another U.S. state or jurisdiction.
To qualify, applicants must meet uniform standards, including:
- Hold an active, unencumbered license from another U.S. state, D.C., or a U.S. territory in a profession with a similar scope of healthcare practice as determined by the relevant Florida board or the Department of Health (DOH).
- Pass a national licensure examination or hold a recognized national certification. If no national exam is required, the applicant’s current licensing jurisdiction must meet Florida’s education, examination, experience, and clinical supervision requirements.
- Have at least three years of active practice within the past four years before applying.
- Have no ongoing disciplinary proceedings in any jurisdiction or with the U.S. Department of Defense.
- Have no disciplinary action within the last five years related to professional conduct.
- Submit fingerprints for background screening, if required.
- Pass a Florida-specific jurisprudence exam if mandated by the relevant professional board or the DOH.
Applicants do not qualify for licensure if they:
- Have a pending complaint, allegation, or investigation in another jurisdiction.
- Have been convicted of or pleaded nolo contendere to a felony or misdemeanor related to their profession.
- Have had a license revoked, suspended, or voluntarily surrendered in another jurisdiction due to disciplinary action.
- Have been reported to the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) unless successfully removed through an appeal.
Background Check and National Practitioner Data Bank
As part of the licensure by endorsement process, applicants must undergo a comprehensive background check and submit to a query of the NPDB. The NPDB is a web-based repository that contains information on healthcare providers who have faced disciplinary actions, including adverse actions and medical malpractice payments, as well as license suspension.
Applicants are required to disclose any disciplinary actions taken against them by a health board or other licensing authority. If you have had a license revoked or suspended, you must provide documentation of the action and any subsequent appeals or reinstatements.
In addition to the NPDB query, applicants must provide fingerprints and undergo a Level 2 background screening, as mandated by Florida Statutes. This screening verifies the applicant’s identity and checks for any criminal history.
Once the application is complete, the Florida Department of Health will review it. If the application meets all requirements, the applicant will be issued a healthcare provider license in Florida, allowing them to practice their profession in the state.
Common Challenges in the Licensure by Endorsement Process
Although the process seems straightforward, applicants often encounter challenges that can delay approval and need legal help with their licensure.
Disciplinary Actions in Other States
If a previous license has been subject to disciplinary action, additional documentation and review may be required. In some cases, an applicant successfully appealed to remove negative reports from the National Practitioner Data Bank, which can aid in the approval process.
Criminal History
Certain criminal offenses may impact eligibility, especially felonies, fraud, substance abuse or controlled substances violations, and medical malpractice and professional misconduct violations, requiring legal assistance to navigate the application process.
Incomplete or Inaccurate Documentation
Errors in application materials can result in processing delays or denials.
Delays in License Verification
Some states take longer to provide verification, which can extend the processing time.
The Role of the Florida Department of Health in Health Care Provider License Management
The Florida Department of Health (DOH) is responsible for regulating and overseeing healthcare professionals’ licensure in the state. While it plays a crucial role in the licensure process, healthcare professionals may find it challenging to navigate DOH procedures, particularly if there are concerns related to disciplinary history, background checks, or application denials.
About Lauren A. Leikam, PLLC
Lauren A. Leikam, PLLC, is a healthcare licensing attorney who leverages her background working for the Florida Department of Health to defend professionals facing DOH complaints or licensure challenges as a healthcare licensing defense attorney. Her holistic experience allows her to provide strategic guidance for individuals dealing with state laws and licensure-related concerns.
Are You Experiencing a Roadblock with Your Healthcare License? Call Lauren A. Leikam, PLLC Today
For healthcare professionals facing licensing delays, disciplinary concerns, or DOH investigations, legal guidance can be invaluable. If you have received a DOH complaint or an investigation against your license, contact Lauren A. Leikam, PLLC for experienced legal assistance and a free case evaluation. Contact our office today to discuss your situation and take the next steps toward practicing your healthcare profession in Florida.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please contact an attorney to get specific legal guidance on your case.
