How to get your RN license in Massachusetts

Getting licensed in Massachusetts at a glance

Steps to get licensed in Massachusetts

1. 1Graduate from a state-approved RN nursing program (ADN or BSN).
2. 2Apply for licensure by examination through the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing and pay the $230 application fee.
3. 3Register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 exam fee.
4. 4Complete any criminal background check the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing requires.
5. 5Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT), then schedule and pass the NCLEX-RN.
6. 6The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing issues your RN license once the exam and background check clear.

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

Massachusetts RN licensing FAQ

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

Confirm the background-check requirement directly with the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing; we have not verified it against a board source for Massachusetts.

How much does the Massachusetts RN license application cost?

The initial Massachusetts RN license-by-examination application fee is $230. 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 Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing portal before you pay.

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

Whether Massachusetts issues a temporary or graduate-nurse permit varies; confirm with the Massachusetts Board of Registration in 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 Massachusetts?

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

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