How to get your RN license in Minnesota

Getting licensed in Minnesota at a glance

Steps to get licensed in Minnesota

1. 1Graduate from a state-approved RN nursing program (ADN or BSN).
2. 2Apply for licensure by examination through the Minnesota Board of Nursing and pay the $105 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 Minnesota Board of Nursing issues your RN license once the exam and background check clear.

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

Minnesota RN licensing FAQ

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

Yes. Minnesota requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check to get an initial RN license. Applicants must submit fingerprints (a fingerprint packet is emailed by the Board's Criminal Background Check program office) as part of the mandatory criminal background check, which carries a separate $32 fee from the $105 application fee.

How much does the Minnesota RN license application cost?

The initial Minnesota RN license-by-examination application fee is $105. 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 Minnesota Board of Nursing portal before you pay.

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

Whether Minnesota issues a temporary or graduate-nurse permit varies; confirm with the Minnesota 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 Minnesota?

Graduate from an approved nursing program, register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE, apply for licensure by examination through the Minnesota 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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