Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Montana, 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 Montana
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 Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$81,560 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#33 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Montana 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 Nursing and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Montana
With a median salary of $81,560, Registered Nurses in Montana earn 13% below the national median of $93,600. Montana ranks #33 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,173Median annual salary
$81,560Hourly estimate
$39.2113% below national median
Difference: -$12,040
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#33 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $81,560 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $78,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $69,510 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $81,790 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Idaho | $86,100 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| North Dakota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Idaho | 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 Nursing
301 South Park, 4th Floor, PO Box 200513, Helena, MT, 59620-0513
Phone: 4068412397
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $459,360 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $61,590 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $82,350 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Montana?
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 Montana?
Montana 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 Montana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Montana.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Montana is $81,560. Salaries range from $67,720 (10th percentile) to $109,450 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Montana earn 13% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of $81,560.
How many Registered Nurses work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 10,540 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Montana 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 Montana?
The licensing agency is Board of Nursing. Review agency details at http://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/nur.
How often do you renew a Registered Nurse license in Montana?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.