Registered Nurse / Massachusetts
2026 data Massachusetts board official source

Massachusetts Registered Nurse License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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Provides patient care, administers medications, and coordinates with physicians. Requires NCLEX-RN exam.

What the Massachusetts data shows for Registered Nurses

To practice as a registered nurse in Massachusetts, the state licensing board requires 2,635 documented education or training hours, a passing score on NCLEX-RN. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Massachusetts's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing".

Budget $150 to get started, plus $80 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle; processing typically runs about 5 weeks once your application is complete. The license also carries an ongoing 15-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice.

Licensing Requirements in Massachusetts

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing
2,635 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-RN
Required
Initial License Fee
$186
Renewal Fee
$129
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$150
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$80
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
5 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
15 hrs
Compare fees across all states for Registered Nurse →

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Compare all states for Registered Nurse All Massachusetts licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Massachusetts licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Registered Nurse in Massachusetts? ▼
Massachusetts requires 2635 education/training hours, passing an exam (NCLEX-RN), and an initial fee of $186. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Registered Nurse in Massachusetts? ▼
To become a licensed registered nurse in Massachusetts, you must meet the state's requirements including 2635 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Massachusetts licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Massachusetts from another state? ▼
Registered Nurse licenses generally reciprocate as follows: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Massachusetts licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Massachusetts require a background check for Registered Nurse licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the registered nurse licensing process in Massachusetts. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Registered Nurse in Massachusetts? ▼
To stay licensed as a registered nurse in Massachusetts, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $129.
How much does it cost to get a Registered Nurse license in Massachusetts? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Massachusetts is $150. The renewal fee is $80 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 5 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Registered Nurse license processing take in Massachusetts? ▼
In Massachusetts, license processing for registered nurses typically takes approximately 5 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.