Application Fee
See agencyRegistered Nurse Licensing in Maryland
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Maryland, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in Maryland
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Maryland State Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene • Maryland Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$96,830 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#14 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 Maryland
With a median salary of 96,830, Registered Nurses in Maryland earn 3% above the national median of $93,600. Maryland ranks #14 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$96,830Hourly estimate
$46.55Difference: +$3,230
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $96,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $87,610 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $92,610 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $79,990 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $88,820 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | 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
Maryland State Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene • Maryland Board of Nursing
4201 Patterson Ave, Baltimore, MD, 21215
Phone: 4107641900
Related Careers in Maryland
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $101,700 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $78,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,280 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Maryland?
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 is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Maryland?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Maryland is 96,830. Salaries range from $75,470 (10th percentile) to $121,150 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Maryland compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Maryland earn 3% above the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 96,830.
How many Registered Nurses work in Maryland?
Maryland employs approximately 48,980 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Maryland 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 Maryland?
The licensing agency is Maryland State Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene / Maryland Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://mbon.maryland.gov/Pages/default.aspx.