A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Mississippi
Mississippi offers an affordable lifestyle, stunning coastlines, delicious cuisine, and cost-effective higher education. If pursuing a nursing career here interests you, the first step post-graduation is obtaining your registered nursing license. In this guide, we will discuss: Steps to acquire your Mississippi nursing license through examination, Obtaining your license by endorsement, License renewal process, Associated fees, Continuing education mandates, Contacting the Mississippi Board of Nursing, Local job opportunities + answers to all your nursing queries.
How to obtain your Mississippi nursing license via exam:
Step 1: Education Attainment. To qualify for a registered nurse license in Mississippi, you must acquire a degree from a program that aligns with Mississippi's educational criteria. Eligible degrees include: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Accelerated BSN for those with a bachelor's in another field.
Step 2: Application Process. Start by registering on the Mississippi Board of Nursing Gateway for licensure applications, renewals, and personal updates. A $100 fee and a valid Social Security number are required. Register for the NCLEX via Pearson VUE at www.ncsbn.org/nclex with a $200 fee. Graduates within three months can apply for a 90-day temporary permit but must pass the NCLEX in that period. Failing the NCLEX invalidates the permit.
Step 3: Transcript Submission. The Board demands official transcripts in sealed envelopes to verify educational compliance. Complete the online application and fee before submitting documents.
Step 4: Background Check. Mississippi program attendees should have scheduled fingerprinting. If missed, or if you're from out of state or a resident who studied elsewhere, arrange fingerprinting with the Board.
Step 5: NCLEX Examination. Post-document submission, receive Authorization to Test for the NCLEX-RN exam. This national exam evaluates retention from your nursing education, covering topics like: Safe and Effective Care, Management, Infection Control, Health Promotion, Psychosocial and Physiological Integrity, Basic Care, Pharmacological Therapies. Passing the NCLEX grants your RN license. Failure results in mail notification. A temporary permit becomes invalid. You can reapply, pay fees, and retake the test up to six times within two years.
Licensing by Endorsement (For existing RN license holders): If licensed elsewhere, apply for Mississippi licensure by endorsement via the Gateway portal with a $100 fee. A Social Security Number is mandatory. Send your basic nursing degree transcript in a sealed envelope to the Board. Verify your original license; if the state doesn't participate in verification services, request direct verification to the Mississippi Board. Arrange a criminal background check through the Board's office or request a fingerprint card. Contact the Board for details.
License Renewal:
Step 1: Renewal Timing. Mississippi licenses last two years, expiring on December 31 of even-numbered years. Licenses issued before August 31 in even years expire that December. Those issued September 1 or later expire December of the next even year. Renewal starts September 1.
Step 2: Continuing Competency. Mississippi removed continuing education mandates in 2020. RNs inactive over five years need 20 contact hours in the last two years. Free CE units are available that meet these requirements, offering immediate certificates.
Step 3: Renewal Application. Renew your license and pay the $100 fee via the Gateway portal.
Mississippi Nursing Fees: Fees for new or transferring nurses include: NCLEX: $200, Application: $100 (RN), Criminal check: $75. Endorsement fees: Application: $100 (RN), Multistate: $25, Temporary: $25, Criminal check: $75. Renewal: $100; $100 (APRN, first license, $50 for others). Mississippi is a compact state, allowing multi-state licenses. Fees may change.
Continuing Education Requirements: RN: 20 hours biennially, LPN: 20 hours biennially, APRN: 40 hours biennially (10 hours in controlled substances). Free ANCC-accredited courses are available online.
Mississippi Board Contact: Phone: (601) 957-6300, Fax: (601) 957-6301, Website: https://www.msbn.ms.gov/
