NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) License in Massachusetts
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in Massachusetts, you must graduate from an approved nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN. Massachusetts is NOT an NLC compact state. Estimated costs are approximately $440. The state is home to some of the nation's most prestigious healthcare institutions.
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- Total Cost
- $440 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) registration in Massachusetts
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $120
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $120
- Total Estimated Cost
- $440
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) license in Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts licensing board.
NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) Salary in Massachusetts
Entry Level
$76,950
Median
$101,970
Experienced
$173,590
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, REGISTERED (RN) in Massachusetts.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$120.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) Licensing in Massachusetts: What to Know
Massachusetts requires graduation from a nursing program preparing for RN practice and passing the NCLEX-RN. CE is required for renewal, and there are no blanket criminal record prohibitions — the board reviews each case individually. Massachusetts is NOT a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The Board of Registration in Nursing oversees licensure. Massachusetts is home to world-class healthcare institutions including Mass General Brigham, Beth Israel Deaconess, and Boston Children's Hospital. The state's concentration of academic medical centers creates exceptional opportunities for nurses pursuing specialized practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) license cost in Massachusetts?
- The estimated total cost is $440, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) license in Massachusetts?
- 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, REGISTERED (RN) license in Massachusetts?
- You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare NURSE, REGISTERED (RN) requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.