Registered Nurse / Maryland
2026 data Maryland board official source

Maryland Registered Nurse License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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

What the Maryland data shows for Registered Nurses

Becoming a licensed registered nurse in Maryland means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 2,662 training hours, a passing score on NCLEX-RN, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. Maryland regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing".

The initial price tag is $100, and renewal costs $75 every 2 years. Applications usually take around 4 weeks to process once complete. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 30 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

On reciprocity, registered nurses should know: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice.

Licensing Requirements in Maryland

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing
2,662 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-RN
Required
Initial License Fee
$191
Renewal Fee
$133
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
$100
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$75
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
4 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
30 hrs
Compare fees across all states for Registered Nurse →

Compare & Explore

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Registered Nurse in Maryland? ▼
Maryland's requirements cover 2662 hours of education or training, the NCLEX-RN exam, and an initial fee of $191. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Registered Nurse in Maryland? ▼
Maryland licenses registered nurses who complete its requirements (2662 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Maryland licensing board.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Maryland from another state? ▼
For registered nurses, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Maryland licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Maryland require a background check for Registered Nurse licensing? ▼
Maryland does require a background check before issuing a registered nurse license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Registered Nurse in Maryland? ▼
Licensed registered nurses in Maryland must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $133.
How much does it cost to get a Registered Nurse license in Maryland? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Maryland is $100. The renewal fee is $75 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 4 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Registered Nurse license processing take in Maryland? ▼
In Maryland, license processing for registered nurses typically takes approximately 4 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.