State Practice Environment
It’s essential that NPs and policy makers have a clear understanding of how their state laws and regulations impact their practice. AANP’s interactive State Practice Environment map provides an overview of NP licensure for all 50 states, Washington, D.C. and U.S. territories. For details about the practice environment in a specific state, simply hover your mouse over a state on the map below.
Legend
| Full Practice |
| Reduced Practice |
| Restricted Practice |
Practice Environment Details
Full Practice
State practice and licensure laws permit all NPs to evaluate patients; diagnose, order and interpret diagnostic tests; and initiate and manage treatments, including prescribing medications and controlled substances, under the exclusive licensure authority of the state board of nursing. This is the model recommended by the National Academy of Medicine, formerly called the Institute of Medicine, and the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
Reduced Practice
State practice and licensure laws reduce the ability of NPs to engage in at least one element of NP practice. State law requires a career-long regulated collaborative agreement with another health provider in order for the NP to provide patient care, or it limits the setting of one or more elements of NP practice.
Restricted Practice
State practice and licensure laws restrict the ability of NPs to engage in at least one element of NP practice. State law requires career-long supervision, delegation or team management by another health provider in order for the NP to provide patient care.
State Practice Information
You need to know all the details about NP practice in your state—from signature authority to the number of CE hours required for licensure and beyond. With your AANP membership, you can access quick reference guides on your state to inform yourself and your patients.
DISCLAIMER: The material contained in this is offered as information only and not as practice, financial, accounting, legal or other professional advice. Correspondents must contact their own professional advisors for such advice.
Updated: 10/2023