How to get your RN license in Maryland

Getting licensed in Maryland at a glance

Steps to get licensed in Maryland

1. 1Graduate from a state-approved RN nursing program (ADN or BSN).
2. 2Apply for licensure by examination through the Maryland Board of Nursing and pay the $187 application fee.
3. 3Register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 exam fee.
4. 4Complete the required fingerprint-based criminal background check.
5. 5Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT), then schedule and pass the NCLEX-RN.
6. 6The Maryland Board of Nursing issues your RN license once the exam and background check clear.

Start at the source: Maryland Board of Nursing. Already licensed elsewhere and moving to Maryland? See licensure by endorsement instead.

Maryland RN licensing FAQ

Does Maryland require fingerprinting or a background check for a nursing license?

Yes. Maryland requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check to get an initial RN license. Maryland requires fingerprint-based state and federal (CJIS/FBI) criminal history records checks for all new RN exam applicants; private/name-based background checks are not accepted, and no license is issued until the CHRC is reviewed.

How much does the Maryland RN license application cost?

The initial Maryland RN license-by-examination application fee is $187. This is separate from the NCLEX-RN exam fee ($200 to Pearson VUE) and any fingerprint/background-check vendor fee. Confirm the current amount on the Maryland Board of Nursing portal before you pay.

Can I work in Maryland before my RN license is issued?

Whether Maryland issues a temporary or graduate-nurse permit varies; confirm with the Maryland Board of Nursing before you accept a start date, and never practice as an RN until you are authorized.

How do I apply for my first RN license in Maryland?

Graduate from an approved nursing program, register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE, apply for licensure by examination through the Maryland Board of Nursing, complete the required background check, then pass the NCLEX-RN. The board issues your license once every requirement clears.

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