Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse 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 Registered Nurse 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: Work experience 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
$101,970 median (9% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#9 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 101,970, Registered Nurses in Massachusetts earn 9% above the national median of $93,600. Massachusetts ranks #9 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$101,970Hourly estimate
$49.029% above national median
Difference: +$8,370
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#9 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $101,970 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $96,830 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $85,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $105,600 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $101,590 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $99,960 | 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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| 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 Registered Nurse 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 Registered Nurses in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Massachusetts is 101,970. Salaries range from $76,950 (10th percentile) to $173,590 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Massachusetts earn 9% above the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 101,970.
How many Registered Nurses work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 90,190 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse 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 Registered Nurses 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/.