Missouri Nurse License Overview
Getting your Missouri 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 Missouri 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, Missouri 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) | $105 | $101 |
| Endorsement Application | $105 | $101 |
| Temporary Practice Permit | Included (no separate BON fee) | Included (no separate BON fee) |
| Renewal (2-year cycle) | $85 | $77 |
| Background Check | ~$41–$45 | ~$41–$45 |
Key Sections:
Missouri License Renewal
- Renewal cadence: Your first Missouri 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: Missouri Nurse Licenses (2026)
| Feature | RN (Registered Nurse) | LVN (Vocational Nurse) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Board | Missouri Board of Nursing | Missouri Board of Nursing |
| Compact Status | Yes (eNLC Member) | Yes (eNLC Member) |
| Background Check | Required (Fingerprint-based Criminal Background Check) | Required (Fingerprint-based Criminal Background Check) |
| License Verification | Via Nursys | Via Nursys |
| Education Standards | Board-approved or equivalent nursing program | Board-approved practical nursing program |
| Application Portal | Missouri Professional Registration (MOPRO) System | Missouri Professional Registration (MOPRO) System |
| Criminal History | Must be disclosed; subject to Board review | Must be disclosed; subject to Board review |
| Processing Time | Varies (typically within a few weeks after all requirements are met) | Varies (typically within a few weeks after all requirements are met) |
MO Licensure by Endorsement
Process: Permanent License
- 1.
Online Application
- Submit your application through the Missouri Board of Nursing system
- 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
- 4.
Background Check & Fingerprinting
- Complete a criminal background check with fingerprinting
- Follow instructions provided by the Board to complete fingerprinting
- 5.
Additional Requirements
- Provide evidence of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence
- Additional documentation may be required for: criminal history, disciplinary actions, international applicants (e.g., English proficiency)
Walk-Through
- 1.
Availability
- Missouri does offer a walk-through option under specific conditions
- A license may be issued the same day if you apply in person at the Board of Nursing
- 2.
Requirements
- A complete application
- All required documents submitted
- Fees paid
- Active license in good standing in another state
- No 'Yes' responses to disciplinary or criminal background questions
- Approval is not automatic; it is still subject to Board review
Temporary License
- 1.
Availability
- A temporary permit may be issued if eligibility requirements are met
- 2.
Validity & Use
- Temporary permits are typically valid for up to 6 months
- Non-renewable
- 3.
Requirements
- All application requirements must be submitted except final background check results
- Must hold an active, unencumbered license in another state
Missouri Continuing Education Requirements
Your Guide to Continuing Education Requirements in Missouri
Quick Reference Table
| License Type | Hours Required | First Renewal (0-2 Years) | Standard Renewal (2+ Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| RN | No CE hours required | No CE required | No continuing education (CE) hours required for renewal. Missouri is a no-CE state for renewal. Nurses are still expected to maintain professional competency independently. |
| LPN | No CE hours required | No CE required | Same requirements as RN. No CE hours required for renewal. Must maintain competency in practical nursing practice. |
| APRN | Varies by certification and role | Must maintain national certification | Must meet CE and practice requirements set by certifying body. |
Key Notes for Missouri
- Missouri is a no-CE state — no continuing education hours required for RN or LPN renewal
- Nurses are expected to maintain professional competency independently
- APRNs must meet CE requirements set by their certifying body
- Renewal must be submitted at least 3 business days before expiration
- No grace period — license lapses immediately if not renewed on time
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Download CerTracker for FreeFAQs About Missouri Nursing License
How much does a Missouri nursing license cost?
Endorsement application is $105 for RNs and $101 for LPNs. Renewal typically costs around $85 for RNs and $77 for LPNs.
How long does it take to get a Missouri nursing license?
Processing usually takes a few weeks, depending on application completeness and background check processing.
How many CE hours are required to renew a nursing license in Missouri?
Missouri does not require continuing education for routine license renewal.