FAQs
Travel Nursing FAQs
Got questions about the travel nursing career? There are many that we've been asked before! Find our most commonly asked questions below and feel free to reach out if there's something we haven't covered here.
Becoming a travel nurse is an exciting and growing career that offers many opportunities for personal growth. Before you can become one, it's important to have experience in your specialty or at least two years of hospital work under your belt. Some hospitals require even more time before they hire travelers! We suggest chatting with recruiters about requirements so we can help guide you through the process from start-to-finish.
We usually see assignments that last 13 weeks but there are always hospitals out there that have different needs.
With the current climate, ER nurses are most saught after but all specialties are needed.
Once you submit your resume we will email you with jobs that match! You can always use our search filters on the website to tailor your search to what you're looking for.
Not currently.
Traveling nurses have all the credentials and certifications of a full-time permanent nurse; however, they are contracted for short-term assignments through agencies that specialize in placing traveling nurses. The agency normally supplies the traveling nurse with housing and reimbursement of travel expenses as well as assistance with licensing, health benefits, payroll services and support. Traveling nurses can work locally in their own area or they may choose to travel around the country wherever they are needed most.
You must be a graduate of an accredited health care professional program in the United States or Canada. You must also provide a valid license or certification and proof of the right to work in the United States.
You need to have a minimum of 12 consecutive months of recent experience in your specialty.
Travel nurses typically take on assignments that last four to six weeks. Upon completion of an assignment, a travel nurse can move on to a new assignment or choose to take time off between assignments. This flexibility and change of scenery and pace make travel nursing extremely appealing to many nurses. Permanent nurses stay in one location and work a set shift. While flexibility is the hallmark of travel nursing, stability is the term that most appropriately defines a permanent nursing position.
Travel nurses typically fill a gap that exists when a permanent nurse is unable to work for a set period of time. Maternity, short- and long-term disability and other prolonged absences can necessitate the need for a travel nurse. In contrast, Per Diem nurses work day to day. A Per Diem nurse can fill a gap created in one single day due to an unexpected staff shortage. Per Diem nurses can also provide extra support during especially busy shifts. Some permanent and travel nurses may choose to supplement their income with per diem work.
Travel nurse assignments can vary in length depending on the agency and the hospital or facility’s needs. A typical assignment might last for as little as 4 weeks or as long as 26 weeks. In some cases, the assignment can be extended when the hospital or facility and travel nurse agree to do so.
Each state has its own rules and regulations regarding licensure. You can check out our licensure information for all 50 states to learn more. The best travel nursing companies have specialists who will work with you to ensure that you obtain the required license for the state where your next assignment is located well before your start date.
The majority of travel assignments are 36- and 40-hour weeks. If you are working 12-hour shifts, you will be guaranteed 36 hours per week, while 8- and 10-hour shifts are guaranteed 40 hours per week.
Pay rates for travel nurses depend on the facility, location and clinical specialty, and, generally speaking, travel nurses are well compensated. The personal rewards are clear. How else can you travel, do what you love, and get paid for it? A good travel placement agency will offer excellent benefits, including bonus programs, healthcare insurance, travel reimbursement and retirement programs. Additionally, they'll work with your assigned hospital or facility to provide you with housing, or they'll provide a housing stipend if you prefer to locate housing on your own.
Choosing a travel nursing company is one of the most important steps in becoming a travel nurse. Each company is different with regards to the benefits and services it provides, so it's important to do your homework. Ask each company what it offers in terms of available assignments, pay and benefits, including health insurance and 401(k), housing, loyalty programs and clinical support. Our travel partners can answer any questions you have about which company will be best suited to your needs.
As a travel nurse, you are in charge of your career. Simply let your recruiter know what you want with regards to the location of your assignment, the facility, the clinical setting and any other details that are important to you. Your recruiter will work to make sure your requests are met.
When you travel with the best travel staffing companies, you'll have access to assignments across all 50 states and in all types of health care facilities.
Travel nurses typically share a comfortable two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment or condominium, located close to their workplace. Apartments/condos are always fully furnished, and the travel company sets up and pays for utilities
Yes. Most travel companies will provide you with a monthly housing subsidy if you arrange and pay for your own housing.
Yes! Traveling as a health care professional is a fantastic way to explore the country with your family or best friends. Let your recruiter know whom you will be traveling with to ensure that you are provided with housing that suits your travel lifestyle.
Pets are definitely welcome on travel assignments. Apartment complexes often require a separate pet deposit that you will be responsible for paying.