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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in Montana
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
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $78,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $69,510 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $81,790 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Idaho | $86,100 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Idaho | 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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $82,350 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $65,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $45,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Montana?
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 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. 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 Montana?
The licensing agency is Board of Nursing. Review agency details at http://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/nur.