A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in MN
Minnesota is renowned for its exceptional healthcare facilities, and nurses in the state typically receive attractive salaries alongside a positive quality of life. If you aim to be a nurse in Minnesota, the first requirement is to secure your registered nurse (RN) license.
This article will cover:
- Steps to obtain your Minnesota nursing license via examination - How to secure a license by endorsement - Renewal procedures for your Minnesota nursing license - Associated licensing fees - Continuing education obligations - Contact information for the Minnesota Board of Nursing
Let’s get started.
### How to Obtain Your Minnesota Nursing License by Examination
**Step 1: Education**
Your nursing degree is the foundation of your professional journey. Whether you have earned a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing, a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or completed an accelerated BSN program, your qualifications are critical for meeting the requirements for a Minnesota nursing license.
This information applies to nurses trained within the U.S. Minnesota also offers a licensing application for graduates of Canadian nursing programs.
**Step 2: Apply**
The state of Minnesota allows applicants for nurse licensure to apply online or download a paper application for submission to the Board of Nursing.
You can find the online application here. The total fee for application is $138.25, which includes $105 for the application itself and $33.25 for the background check.
If opting for a paper application, ensure you send it along with the same fee in the form of a cashier's check or money order.
Additionally, you must register to take the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) for an additional fee of $200, with a phone registration option available.
**Step 3: Transcript Submission**
The Board of Nursing will require a Confirmation of Program Completion from your nursing school. Graduates from Minnesota nursing programs usually receive this confirmation online through an official of the institution. Those applying by mail need to fill out the relevant confirmation form associated with their application and send it directly from the Nursing Program to the Board.
**Step 4: Criminal Background Check (CBC)**
After receiving your application, the Board of Nursing will provide you with a fingerprint packet via email. Follow the included guidelines and ensure your fingerprints are submitted promptly.
**Step 5: Take the NCLEX**
After all application materials are completed, you will obtain an email confirming your authorization to test from Pearson VUE. The NCLEX-RN exam assesses your knowledge of critical nursing concepts across topics such as Safety and Effective Care Environment, Management of Care, Safety and Infection Control, Health Promotion and Maintenance, Psychosocial Integrity, Physiological Integrity, Basic Care and Comfort, Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies, and Physiological Adaptation.
Upon passing the NCLEX, you will be issued your Minnesota nursing license. If you do not succeed, you need to file a retake request within eight months and should take the test again within a year or reapply.
### Licensing by Endorsement (For Those with RN Licensure)
If you currently hold an active RN license from another state and aspire to practice in Minnesota, you must apply for a license by endorsement. This begins by setting up an online account with the Minnesota Board of Nursing. Subsequent steps entail:
- Completing and printing the application from the Board's website or applying online. If submitting a paper application, it must be signed and mailed with the respective fee. - Providing proof of your licensure from your original state as well as any other current state, if applicable. Verification may be facilitated via the NURSYS system. If your licensing state mandates paper verification, fill out and submit the Licensing Verification form accordingly. - Registered nurses currently employed need to have their latest employer complete and send a Confirmation of Nursing Employment form found in the application packet. After submission, a fingerprint packet will again be sent via email; follow the instructions provided. Depending on how long it has been since you last practiced, the Board may ask for additional continuing education or refresher course information.
### How to Renew Your Minnesota Nursing License
**Step 1: Timing for Renewal Application**
Registered nurses in Minnesota must renew their licenses every two years, though specific licensure periods may vary based on personal circumstances. After the initial period, the license remains valid for two years. The state sends renewal reminders about three months before the expiration, and you will receive email notifications if the Board has your current email address.
Renewals can be processed online, or you can request a paper application by contacting the Board or checking a box on the reminder postcard.
**Step 2: Meeting Continuing Competency Requirements**
Minnesota requires that registered nurses complete 24 contact hours of continuing education every two years. If your initial licensure duration is shorter or longer, you are required to complete one contact hour for each month of licensure.
Although there is no requirement to submit proof of your education hours, it is advisable to retain records for two years to be prepared for any audits.
**Step 3: Submit Your Renewal Application**
You can renew your Minnesota RN license through the link provided.
### Minnesota Nursing Licensing Fees
The following fees apply for obtaining a nursing license in Minnesota, whether you are a first-time nurse or relocating from another state.
**Examination Fees (First-time Nurses):**
- NCLEX Fee: $200 - Application Fee: $105 (RN/LPN) - Background Check Fee: $33.25
**Endorsement Fees (If Already Licensed):**
- Application Fee: $105 (RN/LPN/APRN initial fee) - Background Check Fee: $33.25
**Renewal Fees:**
- Application Fee: $88 (RN/LPN/APRN)
### Continuing Education Obligations
- RN: 24 hours every two years - LPN: 12 hours every two years - APRN: 24 hours every two years
