Massachusetts Nurse License Overview
Getting your Massachusetts nursing license can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be.
Whether you're applying for the first time, endorsing from another state, or renewing your license, this guide covers everything you need to know—requirements, fees, timelines, and continuing education.
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How long does it take to get a Massachusetts Nursing License?
Permanent License
RN (BRN): Approximately 10–12 weeks once all materials (transcripts, fingerprints, and verification) are received.
LVN (BVNPT): Currently faster, averaging 3–4 weeks for endorsement applications as of early 2026.
Temporary License
RN (BRN): Yes. Valid for 6 months. It takes approximately 2–3 weeks to issue, but only after your fingerprints (Live Scan or Hard Card) have been processed by the DOJ and FBI.
LVN (BVNPT): No. Unlike RNs, Massachusetts does not currently offer a temporary license for LVNs/LPNs coming from out of state. However, they do offer an Interim Permit ($50) for new graduates waiting to take the NCLEX-PN.
Board of Nursing
FEES
Fees Breakdown
Detailed overview of applicable fees and charges
| Item | RN (Registered Nurse) | LVN (Vocational Nurse) |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Application (Examination) | $230 | $230 |
| Endorsement Application | $275 | $275 |
| License Verification (Nursys) | $30 (per license) | $30 |
| Renewal (2-year cycle) | $120 | $120 |
| Background Check (CORI) | Required (No fingerprint fee listed) | Required (No fingerprint fee listed) |
Key Sections:
Massachusetts License Renewal
- Renewal cadence: Your first Massachusetts RN or LPN license is issued for two birthdays, not two years. It will expire on the last day of the month following your birth date. From that date forward, the license expires every two years if renewed timely.
- RN Renewal fee: $190.00 Note: If you have prescriptive authority, an additional $30.00 CURES fee is assessed, bringing the total to $220.00.
- LPN Renewal fee: $305.00
- Late fee: If renewed after the expiration date, a delinquent fee is added (+$90 for RNs / +$150 for LPNs).
Required contact hours:
- Standard Requirement: 30 contact hours every two years.
- First-Time Renewal: While the 30-hour requirement is generally waived for your very first renewal, you are now required to complete 1 hour of Implicit Bias training within the first two years of licensure per California AB 1407.
Renewal Process:
- Renewal of your license is done exclusively online through the BreEZesystem. It is highly recommended to renew at least 4–8 weeks before your expiration date to ensure your "Active" status updates in the system.
Working Status:
- You may work while your license renewal is pending, provided that the renewal fee and all requirements (including the mandatory implicit bias hour for first-timers) were submitted on or before the expiration date.
- Important Note:Most employers verify status via the online DCA search. If your license reaches its expiration date without the Board processing the renewal, your status will show as "Delinquent," which may prevent you from being scheduled for shifts.
Important Things to Know: Massachusetts Nurse Licenses (2026)
| Feature | RN (Registered Nurse) | LVN (Vocational Nurse) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Board | Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing | Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing |
| Compact Status | No (Not part of NLC) | No (Not part of NLC) |
| Background Check | Required (CORI criminal background check + additional screening) | Required (CORI criminal background check + additional screening) |
| License Verification | Via Nursys | Via Nursys |
| Education Standards | Board-approved or equivalent nursing program | Board-approved practical nursing program |
| Application Portal | Massachusetts Health Professions Licensing Portal | Massachusetts Health Professions Licensing Portal |
| Criminal History | Must be disclosed; subject to Good Moral Character review | Must be disclosed; subject to Good Moral Character review |
| Processing Time | Typically several weeks after all requirements are received | Typically several weeks after all requirements are received |
MA Licensure by Endorsement
Process: Permanent License
- 1.
Online Application
- Submit your application through the Massachusetts Health Professions Licensing Portal
- Review and attest to applicable statutes and regulations during application
- Pay the required application fee
- 2.
Verification of Licensure
- Request license verification via Nursys from your original state of licensure
- If your state does not participate in Nursys, submit manual verification
- 3.
Education & Documentation
- Provide proof of graduation from a Board-approved or equivalent nursing program
- Submit official transcripts if required
- Provide evidence of NCLEX completion (if not already verified through licensure)
- 4.
Good Moral Character (GMC) Review
- Applicants must meet Good Moral Character (GMC) requirements as defined by state law
- Disclosure of criminal or disciplinary history is required
- Supporting documentation may be requested for review
- 5.
Background Check
- Consent to a CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) check and additional screenings
- Background review is required before licensure can be issued
Massachusetts Continuing Education Requirements
Your Guide to Continuing Education Requirements in Massachusetts
Quick Reference Table
| License Type | Hours Required | First Renewal (0-2 Years) | Standard Renewal (2+ Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| RN | 15 contact hours | No CE required for first renewal | 15 contact hours every 2 years. Must include required state-mandated trainings. Must complete training on domestic/sexual violence and cognitive impairment (one-time requirements). CE must be completed within the 2 years before renewal. Records must be retained for 4 years (2 renewal cycles). CE is not submitted unless requested (audit-based). |
| LPN | 15 contact hours | First renewal exempt from CE | 15 contact hours every 2 years. Same requirements as RN. Must include required state-mandated trainings. |
| APRN | Varies by certification and role | Must maintain national certification | Must meet CE and practice requirements set by certifying body. |
Key Notes for Massachusetts
- No CE required for first renewal
- 15 contact hours required every 2 years from second renewal onward
- One-time mandatory trainings: Domestic & Sexual Violence (Chapter 260) and Cognitive Impairment/Alzheimer's
- CE is audit-based — not submitted at renewal unless requested
- CE records must be retained for 4 years (2 renewal cycles)
- APRNs must meet CE requirements set by their certifying body
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Download CerTracker for FreeFAQs About Massachusetts Nursing License
How much does a Massachusetts nursing license cost?
Endorsement costs approximately $275 for RNs, while renewal fees are typically around $120 for RNs and LPNs.
How long does it take to get a Massachusetts nursing license?
Processing times vary but generally take several weeks after all documents and background checks are completed.
How many CE hours are required to renew a nursing license in Massachusetts?
Nurses must complete 15 CE hours every two years, along with required Board-approved training topics.