Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Healthcare
Nurse Practitioner Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nurse practitioner in Massachusetts, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Affidavit or referral required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Registration in Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$138,890 median (7% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#8 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Massachusetts
With a median salary of 138,890, Nurse Practitioners in Massachusetts earn 7% above the national median of $129,210. Massachusetts ranks #8 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,805Median annual salary
$138,890Hourly estimate
$66.777% above national median
Difference: +$9,680
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNurse Practitioner Salary Ranking
#8 of 50 statesfor Nurse Practitioner median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 166,610 |
| #2 | New Jersey | 149,620 |
| #3 | Alaska | 145,450 |
| #4 | New York | 145,390 |
| #5 | Oregon | 144,600 |
Nearby States Comparison
Nurse Practitioner licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $138,890 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $132,440 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $129,740 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $145,390 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $138,960 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $130,710 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Vermont | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 70 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. |
| Rhode Island | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Board of Registration in Nursing
239 Causeway St., Suite 500, 5th Floor, Boston, MA, 02114
Phone: 8004140168
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $98,620 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $77,760 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $69,760 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $57,960 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Nurse Practitioners in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Nurse Practitioners.
What education do you need to become a Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Degree required for Nurse Practitioner licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical Nurse Practitioner salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Nurse Practitioners in Massachusetts is 138,890. Salaries range from $102,400 (10th percentile) to $205,230 (90th percentile).
How does the Nurse Practitioner salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Nurse Practitioners in Massachusetts earn 7% above the national median of $129,210, with a state median of 138,890.
How many Nurse Practitioners work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 8,920 Nurse Practitioners according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nurse Practitioner license to Massachusetts from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Nurse Practitioners in Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Board of Registration in Nursing. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/gov/departments/dph/programs/hcq/dhpl/nursing/about/.