Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MN Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Minnesota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Minnesota, 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 Minnesota
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
Minnesota Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$100,870 median (8% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#11 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 Minnesota
With a median salary of 100,870, Registered Nurses in Minnesota earn 8% above the national median of $93,600. Minnesota ranks #11 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$100,870Hourly estimate
$48.508% above national median
Difference: +$7,270
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#11 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $100,870 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $86,070 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $76,960 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $69,510 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $78,260 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | 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
Minnesota Board of Nursing
2829 University Avenue Southeast, Suite 200, University Park Plaza, Minneapolis, MN, 55414
Phone: 6126172270
Related Careers in Minnesota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $98,410 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $91,780 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $74,840 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $64,630 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Minnesota?
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 Minnesota?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Minnesota is 100,870. Salaries range from $75,830 (10th percentile) to $128,200 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Minnesota compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Minnesota earn 8% above the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 100,870.
How many Registered Nurses work in Minnesota?
Minnesota employs approximately 64,740 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
The licensing agency is Minnesota Board of Nursing. Review agency details at http://www.nursingboard.state.mn.us/.