Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MO Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Missouri
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Missouri, 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 Missouri
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
Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division Of Professional Registration • Missouri State Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$79,770 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#41 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 Missouri
With a median salary of 79,770, Registered Nurses in Missouri earn 15% below the national median of $93,600. Missouri ranks #41 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$79,770Hourly estimate
$38.3515% below national median
Difference: -$13,830
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#41 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | $79,770 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $76,960 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $86,410 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $79,910 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $79,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $77,130 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $81,160 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $78,060 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $81,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | 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. |
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 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
Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division Of Professional Registration • Missouri State Board of Nursing
3605 Missouri Boulevard, P.O. Box 656, Jefferson City, MO, 65102-0656
Phone: 5737510681ext8007352966
Related Careers in Missouri
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,840 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $61,020 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $57,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $45,220 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Missouri?
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 Missouri?
Missouri 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 Missouri?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Missouri.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Missouri?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Missouri is 79,770. Salaries range from $58,510 (10th percentile) to $103,140 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Missouri compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Missouri earn 15% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 79,770.
How many Registered Nurses work in Missouri?
Missouri employs approximately 74,270 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Missouri 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 Missouri?
The licensing agency is Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance / Division Of Professional Registration / Missouri State Board of Nursing. Review agency details at http://pr.mo.gov/nursing.asp.