Massachusetts RN License Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Massachusetts
1 Education Requirements
Program Requirements
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Additional Requirements
- Complete an approved pre-licensure nursing program
- Program must be approved by state board or equivalent
- Foreign-educated nurses must have GMC evaluation (minimum 8 weeks processing)
Graduate from a state-approved nursing education program
2 NCLEX-RN Examination
Exam Name
NCLEX-RN
Administered By
Pearson VUE
Exam Fee
$200
Tip: Register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE after receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT) from the state board.
Need NCLEX-RN prep? Archer Review has a affordable prep, high pass rate.
3 Background Check
4 Fees
Initial Licensure
| Application Fee | $230 |
| Examination Fee | $200 |
| Fingerprinting | $35 |
| Total | $465 |
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $120 |
Continuing Education Requirements
Required Topics
- - General Nursing CE: 15 hours
Career Advancement
Many RNs advance their careers by pursuing advanced practice roles such as Nurse Practitioner (NP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), or Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).
State Board of Nursing
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Other License Types in Massachusetts
NLC Implementation Pending
Massachusetts has enacted the Nurse Licensure Compact but implementation is pending. Once implemented, nurses will be able to obtain multistate licenses.
Learn about the NLC →Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 4 official sources • Last verified: January 2025