A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Massachusetts
Massachusetts boasts some of the nation's top medical centers and educational institutions. Registered nurses who train or begin their careers here will find ample opportunities. The initial step is securing a nursing license. This guide covers: Obtaining a Massachusetts nursing license Licensing via reciprocity Renewing a Massachusetts nursing license Licensing costs Continuing education prerequisites Contacting the Massachusetts Board of Nursing Find local job matches and answers to your nursing queries Let's begin What's your current role? Staff nurse Manager Other Acquiring your Massachusetts nursing license through examination Step 1: Education Choose from various paths to earn your nursing degree, such as a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing, a four-year BSN, or an accelerated BSN for those with a prior bachelor's degree. Securing a solid education from an accredited institution is key to licensure and employment. - Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - Accelerated BSN for degree holders Massachusetts mandates a one-time course on managing cognitive impairments like Alzheimer's and dementia for new RN licenses. If your program includes this, via classes, conferences, or seminars, the requirement is met. Step 2: Application Eligibility for a Massachusetts RN license requires: - Graduation from a board-approved program - Good moral character (background check) - NCLEX exam completion - $230 application fee Start by registering for the NCLEX with Pearson Vue and requesting transcripts. Submit fees and a Child Protective Services Background Record Request Form, along with a 2x2” color passport photo. After applying, Pearson Vue provides test authorization. Step 3: Transcripts Request a Certification of Graduation and Official Final transcript. Out-of-state program graduates can obtain necessary forms from appropriate sources. Send documents electronically through secure servers like School, Parchment, or the National Student Clearinghouse. Step 4: Good Moral Character Licensure requires meeting the Board of Registration in Nursing's Good Moral Character standard. If you answer “yes” to questions about criminal or disciplinary history, provide documentation. Step 5: NCLEX Exam The NCLEX-RN assesses your readiness as a registered nurse, covering: - Safe and Effective Care - Management of Care - Safety and Infection Control - Health Promotion - Psychosocial and Physiological Integrity - Basic Care and Comfort - Pharmacological Therapies Once registered and your application is approved, you'll receive test authorization. Passing grants a License Letter via email from PCS. Failure results in a Candidate Performance Report and re-exam instructions. Find local job matches and answers to your nursing queries Let's begin What's your current role? Staff nurse Manager Other Reciprocity Licensing (existing RN license) Nurses licensed elsewhere can apply for a Massachusetts license by reciprocity. The process includes a $275 application fee, $30 license verification fee per license, and proof of: - Graduation from an approved program - Good moral character (background check) - NCLEX exam completion - Licensure in another state or D.C. - Valid Social Security number Begin by verifying your license through Nursys. If your state isn't in Nursys, contact your state Board for verification instructions. Request your Official Final Transcript for initial licensure and send it to the right services. Complete the application and Child Protective Services Background Record Request Form. Renewing your Massachusetts nursing license Step 1: Renewal Timing As a Massachusetts RN, renew your license biennially on your birthday. Licenses expire in even years. Renew online or by mail up to 90 days before your birthday. Step 2: Continuing Education Massachusetts requires 15 contact hours of Continuing Education within two years before renewal. No CE is needed for the first renewal, but the Board may verify course completion anytime, so keep records for recent renewal terms. Step 3: Renewal Application To renew, click here. Unregistered users must register first. Enter your User ID and Password to log in. For mail renewal, request a paper form via email. Mail the completed form to the Department of Public Health. Licensing Fees Massachusetts nursing fees for first-timers or relocators: Licensing by examination (new nurses): - NCLEX: $200 - Application: $230 Licensing by endorsement (existing license): - Application: $275 (RN/LPN); $150 (APRN) - License verification: $30 Renewal fees: - Application: $120 (RN/LPN); $180 (APRN) Massachusetts is considering becoming a nursing compact state, allowing multi-state licenses. Continuing education: - RN/LPN: 15 contact hours every 2 years - APRN: 15 contact hours every 2 years; maintain board certification Contacting the Massachusetts Board of Nursing Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing Phone: (800) 414-0168 or (617) 973-0900 Fax: (617) 973-0984 Email: nursing.admin@state.ma.us Website: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/board-of-registration-in-nursing
