Registered Nurse / Michigan
2026 data Michigan board official source

Michigan 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 Michigan data shows for Registered Nurses

To practice as a registered nurse in Michigan, the state licensing board requires 2,473 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 Michigan's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing".

Upfront cost is $53, with renewal running $53 on a 2-year cycle. Expect roughly 3 weeks of processing once a complete application is submitted. Maintaining the license requires 25 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

For registered nurses, the reciprocity picture is: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice.

Licensing Requirements in Michigan

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing
2,473 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-RN
Required
Initial License Fee
$158
Renewal Fee
$109
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
$53
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$53
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
3 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
25 hrs
Compare fees across all states for Registered Nurse →

Compare & Explore

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Registered Nurse in Michigan? ▼
Michigan requires 2473 education/training hours, passing an exam (NCLEX-RN), and an initial fee of $158. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Registered Nurse in Michigan? ▼
Certification as a registered nurse in Michigan means clearing the state's checklist: 2473 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Michigan licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Michigan from another state? ▼
Reciprocity for registered nurses nationally works like this: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Michigan. Verify the specifics with the Michigan licensing board.
Does Michigan require a background check for Registered Nurse licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for registered nurse licensing in Michigan. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Registered Nurse in Michigan? ▼
Michigan ties continued registered nurse licensure to 30 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $109 renewal fee.
How much does it cost to get a Registered Nurse license in Michigan? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Michigan is $53. The renewal fee is $53 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 3 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Registered Nurse license processing take in Michigan? ▼
In Michigan, license processing for registered nurses typically takes approximately 3 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.