Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MI Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Michigan
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Michigan, 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 Michigan
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Professional Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$85,670 median (8% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#26 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 Michigan
With a median salary of 85,670, Registered Nurses in Michigan earn 8% below the national median of $93,600. Michigan ranks #26 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$85,670Hourly estimate
$41.198% below national median
Difference: -$7,930
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#26 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | $85,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $81,250 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $80,740 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $86,070 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 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
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Professional Licensing
P.O. Box 30670, Lansing, MI, 48909
Phone: 5172410199
Related Careers in Michigan
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,530 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $78,440 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $58,610 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,030 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Michigan?
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 Michigan?
Michigan 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 Michigan?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Michigan.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Michigan?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Michigan is 85,670. Salaries range from $70,150 (10th percentile) to $106,770 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Michigan compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Michigan earn 8% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 85,670.
How many Registered Nurses work in Michigan?
Michigan employs approximately 104,210 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Michigan 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 Michigan?
The licensing agency is Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs / Bureau of Professional Licensing. Review agency details at https://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-89334_72600---,00.html.