Massachusetts Nursing License Requirements
ADN or BSN
Registered Nurse License
License: $230 by exam; $275 by reciprocityRenewal: $120
8.2% growth from 2018-2028
Massachusetts offers a great home for professional and aspiring nurses alike. About 84,000 registered nurses (RNs) work in Massachusetts, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The Bay State also ranks among the highest-paying states for RNs, ranking third in highest mean salary.
If you are interested in becoming an MA nurse, you can find many nursing programs in Massachusetts and employment opportunities at major hospitals. Read on to learn more about how to become a registered nurse in Massachusetts.
How to Become a Nurse in Massachusetts
Becoming a nurse in Massachusetts requires candidates to complete education requirements, supervised experiences, and exams. Nurses often supplement their credentials with continuing education credits or certification, and they must renew their licenses regularly. The steps below outline how to become a registered nurse in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Board of Nursing
The Massachusetts Board of Nursing operates as the regulatory organization for nurses in the state. This is the department in charge of issuing and renewing licenses for professional nurses at every level. Nurses cannot legally practice in the state without board-issued licensure.
The board also provides resources for aspiring and professional nurses. Individuals can find application forms online, check their licenses and print license verification, and learn about renewal requirements. Accreditation information and updates on the state’s licensure compact status can be found on the site. Nurses can visit the board’s website about their professional scope of practice too.
How to Get Your Nursing License in Massachusetts
New nurses can apply by examination, which involves taking the NCLEX-RN soon after earning their nursing degrees. Nurses who move from other states but want to practice in Massachusetts can apply by reciprocity.
Massachusetts is not a part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which means that nurses who apply by reciprocity must fulfill requirements stipulated by the state.
Licensure for New Nurses
Applying for licensure for new MA nurses requires passing the NCLEX-RN exam and filling out the proper paperwork. This procedure comprises several steps, including sending documents to various departments, so make sure to carefully follow the instructions on the nursing board’s website. The following information presents the major steps in the application process.
RN Licensure Eligibility Requirements
- Earn an associate or bachelor’s degree from a board-approved nursing program.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN.
- Pay $230 application fee.
- Be of good moral character. The state requires this so that nurses practice in a “safe and competent manner and without risk to the public health, safety or welfare.” Candidates demonstrate good moral character by submitting records regarding past conduct, disciplinary action, and any criminal history.
Steps to Apply for RN License
- Register to take the NCLEX-RN through Pearson Vue.
- Send your final transcripts to Professional Credential Services, Inc.
- Make sure you meet the good moral character requirements as defined by the state of Massachusetts.
- Fill out an application through the online application portal, including the Child Protective Services background record request form.
- Pay the $230 application fee.
- Upload a passport-style color photo.
- Once you receive the authorization to test via email, take the NCLEX-RN exam within 60 days.
- If you pass the exam, confirm your license number on the Massachusetts Health Care Safety & Quality website.
Licensure for Nurses From a Different State
Nurses who relocate to Massachusetts from different states must apply for MA nurse licensure, even if they already possess licenses in their home states. While they do not need to retake the NCLEX-RN, they still must fulfill other requirements.
Steps to Apply for RN License
- Make sure you qualify for Massachusetts’ “good moral character” standing.
- Verify your nursing license using the Nursys license verification system.
- Request to have your final transcripts from your degree that led to initial RN licensure sent to Professional Credential Services, Inc.
- Pay the $275 application fee.
- Submit the online application, including the Child Protective Services background record request form. Before filling out the application, make sure you have a list of all your licenses and information about the education program that led to initial RN licensure.
- Upload a passport-style color photo.
- Confirm your license number on the Massachusetts Health Care Safety & Quality website.
How to Renew Your Nursing License in Massachusetts
RNs need to renew their licenses every two years. In Massachusetts, nurse licensure expires on individuals’ birthdays every even-numbered year. RNs should apply to renew their credentials through the Massachusetts Board of Nursing.
To renew their licenses, each RN needs to complete 15 contact hours of continuing education. They can fulfill these requirements through lectures or workshops, often hosted by professional associations or their employers. They can also enroll in college courses or participate in supervised clinical experiences. Some nurses may prefer independent study through home courses or online programs.
Additionally, RNs need to maintain standing with good moral character, as defined by Massachusetts law. Renewing RN licensure in Massachusetts costs $120.
Salary and Employment for Nurses in Massachusetts
Massachusetts ranks as the third-highest state for mean RN salaries in the country. BLS data also indicates that RNs in the state take home a mean salary of $96,250.
In the Boston-Cambridge-Nashua area, RNs earn a mean salary of $99,410. In the next four highest-paying metro areas — Worcester, Leominster-Gardner, Barnstable Town, and New Bedford — RNs earn mean salaries of over $80,000.
The employment outlook for RNs in Massachusetts remains optimistic as well, with the BLS projecting a 8.2% increase in RN employment from 2018-2028.
Top-Paying Metropolitan Areas for RNs
| Metropolitan Area | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Boston — Cambridge — Nashua | $99,410 |
| Leominster — Gardner | $89,360 |
| Worcester | $88,470 |
| Barnstable Town | $88,210 |
| New Bedford | $83,020 |
Best Hospitals to Work as a Nurse in Massachusetts
The following hospitals, which each employ at least 1,500 nurses, come from U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals in Massachusetts list, which calculates factors like patient outcomes and quality of care to determine its rankings.
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Based in Boston, Mass General operates as both a medical and surgical facility. The teaching hospital, established in 1811, maintains an affiliation with Harvard University. Mass General also carries out medical research, with at least 1,200 clinical trials occurring at the hospital. -
Brigham and Womens Hospital
BWH is also a Harvard teaching hospital located in Boston. Along with a womens health center, the hospital also offers healthcare services in primary care, emergency care, oncology, and surgery. Approximately 3,500 nurses work in clinical and leadership roles at the Brigham. BWH has achieved Magnet recognition. -
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Operating as a part of Beth Israel Lahey Health, BIDMC joins the Brigham as a Boston-based Harvard teaching hospital. The medical center comprises several departments, including emergency services with a level I trauma center. About 3,000 nurses work at BIDMC, and 92% of them possess bachelors, masters, or doctoral degrees. The medical center also delivers about $130,000 in scholarship awards each year for nurses academic advancement. -
Lahey Hospital and Medical Center
As a nonprofit teaching hospital for Tufts University, Laheys Burlington location serves about 3,000 patients each day through inpatient, outpatient, and emergency care. Approximately 1,500 nurses, nursing assistants, and medical assistants work at Lahey. -
UMass Memorial Medical Center
This Worcester-based hospital maintains an affiliation with the University of Massachusetts. In addition to carrying out research and operating as a teaching hospital, the medical center offers services through its level I trauma center and level III neonatal intensive care unit. The medical center employs approximately 2,500 nurses.
Resources for Nurses in Massachusetts
-
Massachusetts Board of Nursing
As a part of the state government, the regulatory board determines who can legally practice as a nurse. Nursing candidates apply for licensure through the board. Individuals can find information about education, experience, and exam requirements on the boards website. Working nurses can also renew their licenses through the board. -
Massachusetts Nurses Association
With 23,000 members, the MNA operates as both a professional organization and a nursing union. Members can attend informative talks and access continuing education materials. Nurses can also participate in collective action, promoting the interests of the profession in the state legislature. -
American Nurses Association Massachusetts
ANAMass offers several resources, such as a career center, journal subscriptions, and continuing education webinars. Members can also join the advocacy arm of ANAMass to influence legislative and policy agendas for nursing and healthcare in the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a nursing license in Massachusetts?
Students who enroll in associate degree programs can obtain their nursing licenses in two years, while bachelor’s degree enrollees typically take four years. Many individuals enroll in school part time, which can add an extra year or two to their nursing licensure timeline.
How much does a Massachusetts nursing license cost?
Massachusetts’ nursing board sets different RN license fees, depending on how you apply for your nursing license. Candidates who apply by taking the NCLEX-RN exam must pay an application fee of $230. An out-of-state nurse applying by reciprocity pays a $275 fee.
Is MA a nursing compact state?
Massachusetts does not participate in the NLC. Nurses moving to Massachusetts from out of state must apply through reciprocity. Each out-of-state nurse must have graduated from a board-approved nursing program, passed the NCLEX, and possess licensure from another state. They must also stand in “good moral character” as defined by the Massachusetts Board of Nursing.
How do I apply for the NCLEX in MA?
You can apply to take the NCLEX exam in Massachusetts through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. First, you must apply for licensure through the Massachusetts nursing board, and then you can register for the NCLEX with Pearson Vue, either online or through a telephone call.
Top Nursing Programs in Massachusetts
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.
