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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
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 Massachusetts eligibility requirements for Registered Nurse licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Board of Registration in Nursing and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,805Median 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 | Varies by board |
| New Hampshire | $96,830 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Vermont | $85,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New York | $105,600 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $101,590 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Rhode Island | $99,960 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Hampshire | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Vermont | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New York | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Rhode Island | 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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $135,250 | Degree required | 1-18 years |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | 2 years |
| Athletic Trainer | $63,720 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $98,620 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Massachusetts?
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 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Registered Nurse license in Massachusetts?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.