Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ME Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Maine
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Maine, 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 Registered Nurse in Maine
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Tied to business
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Maine State Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$82,860 median (11% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#28 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 Maine
With a median salary of 82,860, Registered Nurses in Maine earn 11% below the national median of $93,600. Maine ranks #28 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$82,860Hourly estimate
$39.8411% below national median
Difference: -$10,740
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#28 of 50 statesfor Registered Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 140,330 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 136,320 |
| #3 | Oregon | 123,990 |
| #4 | Washington | 112,180 |
| #5 | Alaska | 110,690 |
Nearby States Comparison
Registered Nurse licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maine | $82,860 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $96,830 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maine | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| New Hampshire | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Maine State Board of Nursing
161 Capitol Street, 158 State House Station, Augusta, ME, 04333-0158
Phone: 2072871133
Related Careers in Maine
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $84,400 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $100,630 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $67,040 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $51,340 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Maine?
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 Registered Nurses in Maine?
Maine lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in Maine?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Registered Nurse licensure in Maine.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Maine?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Maine is 82,860. Salaries range from $66,330 (10th percentile) to $104,870 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Maine compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Maine earn 11% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 82,860.
How many Registered Nurses work in Maine?
Maine employs approximately 16,280 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Maine from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Registered Nurses in Maine?
The licensing agency is Maine State Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.maine.gov/boardofnursing/licensing/index.html.