How to Apply for Travel Nursing Jobs in the US – Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re wondering how to apply for travel nursing jobs in the US, you’re not alone. Thousands of nurses across the country and abroad are exploring travel nursing as a way to earn higher pay, gain diverse clinical experience, and enjoy the freedom of choosing where they work.
But while the career path is rewarding, the application process can seem confusing at first. From selecting the right agency and preparing your credentials to interviewing with hospitals and signing your first contract, knowing each step makes the journey much smoother. This guide walks you through exactly what you need to do to land your first travel nursing job in the United States.
The process of applying for travel nursing jobs is more structured than many nurses expect. It’s not just about sending in a resume you’ll need to meet specific state licensing requirements, complete compliance paperwork, and work closely with a recruiter to find the right contract. The good news is that agencies simplify much of this process by guiding you through credentialing, license verification, housing arrangements, and even travel reimbursements. Whether you’re a new RN looking for adventure or an experienced nurse seeking flexible opportunities, following a clear, step-by-step plan ensures you’re ready to hit the ground running.
In this article, we’ll break down the exact steps you need to take, from researching and comparing travel nursing agencies to preparing your application, completing interviews, and reviewing contracts. You’ll also learn practical tips for avoiding common mistakes—like missing documentation deadlines or overlooking important contract details—that could delay your start date. By the end, you’ll know precisely how to apply for travel nursing jobs in the U.S. and position yourself for success in one of the fastest-growing areas of healthcare.
Average Nurse Salary in USA (2025) – State-by-State Guide: How Much Nurses Really Make
Step 1: Research Travel Nursing Agencies
The very first step in applying for travel nursing jobs in the U.S. is choosing the right agency to partner with. Agencies serve as the bridge between nurses and healthcare facilities, helping you secure contracts, handle paperwork, and negotiate pay packages. With hundreds of agencies out there in 2025, it’s important to take time to compare your options before committing to one.
When researching agencies, look for key factors such as:
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Reputation and Reviews: Read feedback from other travel nurses on platforms like Facebook groups, Glassdoor, or nurse forums. Agencies with consistent positive reviews are usually more reliable.
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Pay Packages: Compare weekly pay rates, bonuses, and stipends for housing and travel. Some agencies are known for higher base pay, while others stand out for offering comprehensive benefits.
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Assignment Locations: Make sure the agency has contracts in states or cities you want to work in, especially if you’re targeting high-paying states like California, New York, or Texas.
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Recruiter Support: A responsive, knowledgeable recruiter can make your experience much smoother. The best recruiters guide you through licensing, compliance, and contract details.
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Benefits and Perks: Look for agencies that offer health insurance, retirement plans, license reimbursement, and completion bonuses.
It’s also a smart move to sign up with more than one agency. This gives you the flexibility to compare offers, pay packages, and assignment availability before making a final decision. By starting with the right agency, you’ll set yourself up for a successful and stress-free travel nursing application process.
Proven Guide: Top Travel Nursing Agencies in the US Hiring in 2025
Step 2: Prepare Your Nursing Credentials and Documents
Once you’ve identified the travel nursing agencies you want to work with, the next step is gathering the credentials and documents needed to apply. Travel nursing jobs in the US require a thorough application package, since hospitals and clinics need to confirm that you meet all professional and legal requirements before they can hire you.
Here’s what you’ll typically need to prepare:
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Active Nursing License: You must hold a valid RN or LPN/LVN license. If you plan to work in multiple states, consider applying for a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) license, which allows you to practice in participating states without reapplying for individual licenses.
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Updated Resume: Highlight your recent nursing experience, clinical skills, and specialties. Agencies and hospitals often prioritize nurses with at least one year of recent acute-care experience.
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Certifications: Commonly required certifications include BLS (Basic Life Support), ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support), and specialty-specific credentials like PALS or TNCC, depending on your field.
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Health and Immunization Records: Proof of immunizations, TB testing, COVID-19 vaccination, and recent physical exams are standard requirements.
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Professional References: Many agencies request at least two to three recent supervisor references to confirm your clinical experience and reliability.
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Other Compliance Documents: This may include background checks, drug screenings, and continuing education transcripts.
Having these documents ready before you apply will save you time and help agencies place you faster. Nurses who submit complete credential packets often get priority for assignments because facilities see them as “ready-to-work” candidates.
Great opportunity: Hospitals Sponsoring Foreign Nurses After Passing the NCLEX in the US 2025
Step 3: Submit an Application with a Travel Nursing Agency
After preparing your credentials and documents, the next step is to officially apply with a travel nursing agency. This is usually a straightforward process, but taking the time to do it thoroughly can speed up your chances of being matched with assignments.
Most agencies allow you to apply online through their websites or mobile apps. Here’s what the process typically involves:
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Online Application Form
You’ll enter your personal details, nursing license information, work history, certifications, and specialty areas. Be as detailed and accurate as possible—agencies use this information to match you with the right jobs. -
Document Upload
Upload your resume, certifications, and health records. Many agencies have portals that securely store your documents so you don’t have to resubmit them for every contract. -
Skills Checklist
Agencies often ask nurses to complete skills checklists for their specialties (ICU, ER, Med-Surg, etc.). This helps recruiters and hospitals quickly assess your clinical strengths. -
Initial Interview with a Recruiter
Once your application is reviewed, a recruiter will typically schedule a phone or video interview. This is your chance to discuss your job preferences—such as desired states, shift types, pay expectations, and housing needs. -
Compliance Review
The agency’s compliance team will double-check your documents, licenses, and references. Completing this step promptly is key to being “assignment-ready.”
Submitting a thorough and complete application not only speeds up the hiring process but also makes you a stronger candidate. Facilities often choose nurses who are already fully credentialed because it means less waiting time before they can start.
Easy Steps: NCLEX Requirements for Foreign Nurses in the US (2025 Guide)
Step 4: Interview and Get Matched with Assignments
Once your application is complete and your recruiter has reviewed your credentials, the next step is to interview and match with potential travel nursing assignments. This is where the process becomes more personalized, as your recruiter works closely with you to find contracts that align with your skills, preferences, and career goals.
Here’s what to expect during this stage:
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Assignment Matching
Your recruiter will present available contracts based on your specialty, location preferences, shift availability, and desired pay. Some agencies may even provide multiple options so you can compare before deciding. -
Hospital Interview
In most cases, travel nurses interview directly with the hiring manager or department supervisor at the hospital or facility. Interviews are typically conducted over the phone or video call and usually focus on your clinical experience, adaptability, and ability to handle new environments. -
Discussing Pay and Benefits
Your recruiter will walk you through the pay package for each assignment, including weekly pay, overtime policies, housing stipends, travel reimbursements, and bonuses. This is the time to ask questions and ensure you fully understand the compensation. -
Evaluating the Facility
While the hospital is assessing you, you should also assess them. Ask about orientation length, staffing ratios, scheduling flexibility, and unit culture. These details will help you determine whether the assignment is a good fit. -
Quick Decision-Making
Travel nursing jobs are highly competitive and can be filled within days. If you find a contract that fits your needs, be prepared to make a decision quickly to secure the spot.
This stage is one of the most exciting parts of the process because it’s where you start picturing yourself in a new role and location. With clear communication and preparation, you’ll feel confident moving forward to the final step: signing your contract.
Why NCLEX Applications Get Denied for International Nurses 2025 – And How to Avoid It
Step 5: Sign Your Contract and Prepare for Your Assignment
After you’ve completed the interview and accepted an offer, the last step is signing your travel nursing contract and preparing for your new assignment. This stage finalizes your commitment and sets the foundation for a smooth transition into your travel nursing role.
Here’s what happens in this step:
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Contract Review
Your recruiter will send you a detailed contract that includes your pay rate, overtime rules, housing stipend, travel reimbursement, shift schedule, and assignment length (usually 8–13 weeks). Take your time to read it carefully and don’t hesitate to ask questions if anything is unclear. -
Clarify Terms
Make sure the contract reflects everything you discussed during the interview, including guaranteed hours, cancellation policies, and any bonuses offered. Confirm whether floating between units is required and what the expectations are for holiday or weekend shifts. -
Finalize Compliance
Before starting, you may need to complete final compliance steps like a drug screen, background check, or additional facility-specific paperwork. Some facilities also require orientation modules to be done before your first day. -
Housing and Travel Arrangements
Decide whether you’ll take the agency-provided housing or use the housing stipend to find your own place. Many nurses prefer stipends for flexibility. If the assignment is far, book travel early to secure affordable flights or plan your road trip. -
Pack and Prepare
Since assignments are temporary, most nurses pack light but ensure they have essentials like uniforms, scrubs, nursing shoes, and important documents. It’s also wise to research the city you’re moving to—look into cost of living, transportation, and local attractions. -
Stay Connected with Your Recruiter
Even after your contract is signed, your recruiter remains your go-to contact for support. Whether you encounter challenges at work or need help with extensions, your recruiter ensures your travel nursing journey stays on track.
By carefully reviewing your contract and preparing in advance, you’ll enter your assignment with confidence, knowing exactly what to expect. This step not only ensures a smooth transition but also sets you up for success in your travel nursing career.
Great opportunity: Hospitals Sponsoring Foreign Nurses After Passing the NCLEX in the US 2025
Conclusion: Start Your Travel Nursing Journey with Confidence
Applying for travel nursing jobs in the U.S. may seem overwhelming at first, but breaking the process into clear steps makes it much more manageable. From researching agencies and preparing your credentials to submitting your application, interviewing with facilities, and signing your contract, each stage brings you closer to starting an exciting assignment. The demand for travel nurses in 2025 remains strong, which means there are abundant opportunities for skilled RNs and LPNs to explore new states, expand their clinical expertise, and enjoy competitive pay with flexible schedules.
The most important thing to remember is that preparation and communication are key. Having your documents ready, being transparent with your recruiter about preferences, and reviewing contracts carefully will ensure a smooth experience. Every assignment is a chance to grow professionally, build new relationships, and enjoy the adventure of nursing in different parts of the country.
Whether you’re a first-time traveler or an experienced nurse looking for your next contract, now is the perfect time to take action. With the right agency and careful planning, you’ll be ready to step into your new role with confidence and begin a rewarding chapter in your nursing career.
Resources and External Links
To make your application process smoother, here are some trusted resources for travel nursing jobs in the U.S.:
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Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) Information – http://National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
Learn which states are part of the compact and how to apply for a multistate license. -
Travel Nursing Job Boards
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http://FlexCare Medical Staffing
These are some of the largest agencies currently hiring travel nurses across the U.S. in 2025.
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Credential Verification – http://CGFNS International
For international nurses seeking U.S. licensure and certification. -
Continuing Education for Nurses – http://NursingCE.com
Keep your certifications current and meet state licensing requirements. -
Professional Association – http://American Nurses Association (ANA)
A national resource for nursing advocacy, professional growth, and career guidance.
By using these resources, you’ll have the tools you need to navigate the application process, stay compliant, and secure the best assignments available in 2025.
