RN NLC Pending

Michigan RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Michigan

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Total Initial Cost

$321.55

Renewal Period

2 years

CE Hours Required

25 hours

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

Apply on Official Site

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 meet CGFNS requirements

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

Criminal background check

FBI and Michigan State Police background check

Criminal background check requirements

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$212.9
Examination Fee	$200
Fingerprinting	$65
Total	$321.55

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$131

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

Required Topics

- General Nursing CE: 25 hours
- Implicit Bias Training: 2 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).

Explore NP Licensure APRN Career Guide

Michigan RN License FAQs

How much does an RN license cost in Michigan?

Expect about $321.55 in total initial RN license costs in Michigan, including a $212.9 application fee and a $200 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Michigan Board of Nursing.

How many CE hours do RNs need to renew in Michigan?

Michigan RNs must complete 25 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $131.

Is Michigan a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state?

Not yet. Michigan has enacted NLC legislation, but implementation is still pending. Until it takes effect, nurses need a separate Michigan license.

How long does it take to get an RN license in Michigan?

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

Who issues RN licenses in Michigan?

The Michigan Board of Nursing handles RN license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (517) 335-0918.