NURSE License in Maryland
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in Maryland, you must graduate from an approved nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN. Maryland is an NLC compact state, which is valuable for nurses working across the DC-Maryland-Virginia region. Estimated costs are approximately $400.
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- Total Cost
- $400 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
NURSE license in Maryland
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $100
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $100
- Total Estimated Cost
- $400
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your NURSE license in Maryland. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Maryland licensing board.
NURSE Salary in Maryland
Entry Level
$75,470
Median
$96,830
Experienced
$121,150
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed NURSE in Maryland.
- 1
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$100.
- 2
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
NURSE Licensing in Maryland: What to Know
Maryland's COS data provides minimal detail for the RN listing (description is null). The Maryland Board of Nursing oversees RN licensure. Maryland is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which is particularly valuable given the state's proximity to DC and Virginia — many Maryland nurses work across state lines. Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland Medical System, and MedStar are major employers. Maryland offers competitive nursing salaries due to its proximity to the DC metro area. The state requires standard NCLEX-RN passage and nursing program graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a NURSE license cost in Maryland?
- The estimated total cost is $400, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a NURSE license in Maryland?
- The process typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a NURSE license in Maryland?
- You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). N/A
Considering another state?
Compare NURSE requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.