How to get your RN license in Michigan

Getting licensed in Michigan at a glance

Steps to get licensed in Michigan

1. 1Graduate from a state-approved RN nursing program (ADN or BSN).
2. 2Apply for licensure by examination through the Michigan Board of Nursing (LARA) and pay the $212.90 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. 6Apply for a temporary/graduate-nurse permit if you need to work before the permanent license issues.
7. 7The Michigan Board of Nursing (LARA) issues your RN license once the exam and background check clear.

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

Michigan RN licensing FAQ

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

Yes. Michigan requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check to get an initial RN license. Under MCL 333.16174(3) of the Public Health Code, an applicant for initial licensure must submit fingerprints to the Michigan State Police, which forwards them to the FBI for a national criminal history check.

How much does the Michigan RN license application cost?

The initial Michigan RN license-by-examination application fee is $212.90. 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 Michigan Board of Nursing (LARA) portal before you pay.

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

Michigan issues a temporary/graduate-nurse permit so you can work under supervision while your license is pending. The Board's official Nursing Licensing Guide FAQ states that a licensed Canadian RN required to take the NCLEX may apply for a temporary license, valid up to one year, to practice while awaiting NCLEX results; no general graduate-nurse permit is described for other initial (e.g., U.S.-school) applicants. Confirm the exact conditions with the Michigan Board of Nursing (LARA).

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

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

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