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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in Maine
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
License Type: Tied to business.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
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 Maine eligibility requirements for Registered Nurse licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Maine State Board of Nursing and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,220Median 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 | Varies by board |
| New Hampshire | $96,830 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Hampshire | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $66,320 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $415,540 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $58,140 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $84,400 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Maine?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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. 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.
How often do you renew a Registered Nurse license in Maine?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.