Frequently Asked Questions

PA Compact Basics

What does the PA Compact do?

The PA Compact provides a streamlined process (via a compact privilege) for PAs to practice in other compact member states.

Why is there a need for the PA compact?

State licensure policies and processes may vary in complexity and can result in duplicative and time-consuming efforts by a PA wishing to engage in multistate practice. These barriers to licensure may negatively impact PA mobility and health care access.

The PA Compact reduces the burdens for multistate practice by accounting for and reflecting the uniformity of PA licensure laws through a streamlined process.

Who can use the compact?

The PA Compact is an optional pathway for PAs who are seeking to practice in other compact member states. To qualify, a PA must hold a license in a compact member state and meet the requirements set forth by the compact. 

Who will administer the compact?

The PA Compact Commission will administer the compact. The compact commission is a joint public agency comprised of states participating in the compact. Each state joining the compact will designate a delegate from its licensing board or agency to participate on the commission.

Compact Privileges

What is a compact privilege?

A compact privilege is the authorization granted by a state participating in the compact for a qualifying PA to practice in that state. A compact privilege provides the same benefits as licensure.

Who qualifies for a compact privilege?

PAs may apply for a compact privilege should the state in which they hold a qualifying license join the PA compact. A compact privilege is based on the PA’s existing license and their ability to meet other requirements established by the compact. 

Does a compact privilege provide the authorization to practice in every compact member state?

A PA must apply for an individual compact privilege for each compact member state where services will be provided.

When will I be able to purchase a privilege to practice?

It is currently estimated that compact privileges will be available in early 2026.

How much will a compact privilege cost?

The cost of a compact privilege will be determined during the operationalization phase of the compact. 

PA Practice 

Can the PA Compact be used to provide telehealth services?

Yes, PAs utilizing a compact privilege will be able to provide telehealth services in accordance with the laws and regulations of the state in which the patient is located.

How does the compact address collaborative agreements, supervision requirements, or other state-specific prerequisites to practice?

The compact provides PAs the authorization to practice from a licensure aspect. PA professionals may be subject to other requirements in order to legally practice, including supervision/collaboration and prescribing authority prerequisites. As PAs would currently have to do any time they are practicing in another state, they must ensure they are following these requirements before practicing. 

As provided in the compact, PAs will need to complete jurisprudence examinations in each state where they are required.  

Will PAs need to complete continuing education requirements in each state they hold a compact privilege?

PAs are required to meet the continuing education requirements of the state in which they hold a qualifying license. PAs must also maintain current NCCPA certification which requires continuing education. They will not need to complete additional continuing education units for states where they hold compact privileges.

Legislative Process

When will compact legislation be available for states to introduce?

Model legislation is available for state introduction and may be accessed here.

What is the cost for a state to participate in the PA Compact?

There is no fee for states to join the compact.

The compact commission will have the authorization to generate revenues, including through a compact privilege fee.

Participating states also have the ability to assess fees to PAs applying for a compact privilege (including renewals).

What can I do to help?

If you are a PA and would like to advocate for the compact in your state, please contact the state chapter of your national membership organization.

If you represent an organization interested in learning more about the compact, you may reach out to csims@csg.org.

Supporting information may be found in the PA Compact Toolkit.