How to get your RN license in Mississippi

Getting licensed in Mississippi at a glance

Steps to get licensed in Mississippi

1. 1Graduate from a state-approved RN nursing program (ADN or BSN).
2. 2Apply for licensure by examination through the Mississippi Board of Nursing and pay the $100 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 Mississippi Board of Nursing issues your RN license once the exam and background check clear.

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

Mississippi RN licensing FAQ

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

Yes. Mississippi requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check to get an initial RN license. Mississippi Board of Nursing requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check (CBC) performed by the Board (in-office appointment or mailed fingerprint card), submitted to the Mississippi central criminal database and the FBI.

How much does the Mississippi RN license application cost?

The initial Mississippi RN license-by-examination application fee is $100. 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 Mississippi Board of Nursing portal before you pay.

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

Mississippi issues a temporary/graduate-nurse permit so you can work under supervision while your license is pending. The Board may issue a temporary (Graduate Nurse, "G.N.") permit to a graduate of an approved nursing program pending the results of the first licensing examination, valid for 90 days from issuance. Confirm the exact conditions with the Mississippi Board of Nursing.

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

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