NP Advanced Practice

Massachusetts Nurse Practitioner License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$150

Renewal Period

2 years

Practice Authority

full

Official source: licensing in Massachusetts is administered by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Massachusetts.

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Full Practice Authority

Full practice authority. Mass. General Laws chapter 112, section 80E requires two years of supervised practice before independent practice.

Prescriptive Authority: NPs prescribe under guidelines with a supervising NP or physician until they finish 2 years of supervised practice, then prescribe independently.

1 Education Requirements

Degree Required

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Program Requirements

Complete accredited Nurse Practitioner program
Hold active RN license in the state
Clinical hours as specified by program

2 National Certification

Certification Body

ANCC, AANPCB, PNCB, NCC, or AACN

Required

Yes

American Nurses Credentialing Center, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board, Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, National Certification Corporation, or American Association of Critical-Care Nurses

3 Background Check

Fingerprint-based criminal background check

FBI and state background check required

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$150
Total	$150

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$180

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

2 hrs domestic/sexual violence required

Prerequisites

To become a Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts, you must first hold an active RN license. Massachusetts requires a state-specific RN license.

RN Requirements View Massachusetts RN Requirements

Massachusetts NP License FAQs

How much does an NP license cost in Massachusetts?

Expect about $150 in total initial NP license costs in Massachusetts, including a $150 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.

How many CE hours do NPs need to renew in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts NPs must complete 15 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $180.

How long does it take to get an NP license in Massachusetts?

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 8 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues NP licenses in Massachusetts?

The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing handles NP license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 617-973-0800.