Can u have a license in more than one state?

Hi, I'm a recent grad with a NJ license, thinking about applying to NY hospitals...... Can you be certified in more than one state? Will they let me renew my NJ license in 2 years if I haven't worked there? Do I apply for NY jobs first, or apply for NY license first? Thanks!
Yes, one can be licensed in more than one state at a time.Most states will permit you to renew your license, even you have not worked in that state, however, most require a certain number of "working" hours as a nurse to keep an active license...though, the state in which you worked them is not generally an issue.However, the BON would be the best place to investigate that issue.