Maintaining an active Missouri RN license is essential for nurses who want to continue practicing without interruptions. Whether you are a new graduate applying for your first license, an out-of-state nurse seeking endorsement, or an RN renewing your license, understanding Missouri’s nursing license process is critical.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Missouri's RN licensing process, including how to apply, renew, reinstate a lapsed license, and an analysis of nursing salaries in Missouri.
Table of contents:
Applying for a nursing license in Missouri
Missouri offers multiple pathways to obtain an RN license, including:
- Licensure by examination – For new graduates.
- Licensure by endorsement – For nurses moving to Missouri.
- Multistate license (Nurse Licensure Compact – NLC) – For nurses in NLC states.
Licensure by examination (for new graduates)
New nursing graduates must take and pass the NCLEX-RN to obtain their license in Missouri.
Steps to obtain an RN license by examination:
1. Graduate from an accredited nursing program
Ensure your nursing school is approved by the Missouri Board of Nursing.
2. Apply for licensure with the Missouri Board of Nursing
- Complete the Missouri RN license application.
- Pay the $45 application fee.
- Submit proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence.
3. Register for the NCLEX-RN exam
- Sign up for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE.
- Pay the $200 NCLEX-RN exam fee.
- Wait for the Authorization to Test (ATT) from the Missouri Board of Nursing.
4. Complete fingerprint background check
- Register through the Missouri Automated Criminal History System (MACHS).
- Use the correct registration number (0001).
5. Pass the NCLEX-RN
Once you pass, the Missouri Board of Nursing will issue your RN license.
Licensure by endorsement (for nurses moving to Missouri)
If you’re an RN licensed in another state and want to practice in Missouri, you can apply for licensure by endorsement.
Steps to obtain an RN license by endorsement:
1. Complete the RN endorsement application
Submit the online Missouri RN endorsement application.
Pay the $105 application fee.
2. Provide verification of your current RN license
Use Nursys.com to verify your active RN license.
3. Submit fingerprints for a background check
Register through MACHS (Missouri Automated Criminal History System).
4. Submit official transcripts
Your nursing school must send an official transcript to the Missouri Board of Nursing.
Missouri and the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
Missouri is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to practice in other compact states without obtaining additional licenses.
- Missouri residents: If Missouri is your primary residence, you can apply for a multistate license.
- Out-of-state nurses: If you hold a multistate license from another compact state, you do not need a separate Missouri license to practice in Missouri.
Missouri RN license renewal requirements
Missouri RN licenses must be renewed every two years to remain active.
Renewal frequency and deadlines
- Missouri RN licenses expire on April 30 of odd-numbered years (e.g., 2025, 2027).
- Renewal period opens several months before expiration—early renewal is recommended.
Continuing education (CE) requirements
- Missouri does NOT require CE credits for RN license renewal.
- While CE is not required, taking professional development courses can increase job opportunities and earning potential.
Renewal fees
- RN license renewal fee: $85
- Late renewal penalty: Additional $50
How to renew your Missouri RN license
To renew your Missouri RN license, follow these steps:
1. Mark your calendar
Set a reminder for the April 30 renewal deadline (odd-numbered years).
2. Check for renewal notifications
The Missouri Board of Nursing sends email reminders a few months before the deadline.
3. Log into the online renewal portal
Visit the Missouri Division of Professional Registration's portal. Enter your license number and PIN (provided in renewal notices).
4. Complete the renewal form
Update personal information and answer the required renewal questions.
5. Pay the renewal fee
Pay $85 online.
6. Receive renewal confirmation
You will receive an email confirmation after successful renewal.
What happens if you miss the renewal deadline?
If your RN license expires, you CANNOT legally work as a nurse in Missouri until reinstated.
License reinstatement process
- Submit a reinstatement application.
- Pay the late renewal fee ($50 + standard renewal fee).
- Complete a new fingerprint background check.
How much do nurses make in Missouri?
Salaries for nurses in Missouri vary based on experience, specialty, and location.
Average RN salary in Missouri
- Missouri RN salary: $77,590 median yearly salary
- National RN salary average: $86,070 per year.
Missouri’s nursing salaries are a bit below the national average, but cost of living is also lower than many states.
Ready to obtain your MO nursing license?
Obtaining and maintaining an RN license in Missouri is a straightforward process when you follow the right steps. Whether you are a new nurse applying for your first license, an out-of-state nurse seeking endorsement, or an RN renewing your license, understanding Missouri’s regulations ensures compliance and career longevity.
With competitive salaries and strong job growth, Missouri is an excellent state for registered nurses to advance their careers.
Licensure requirements change regularly. For the most up-to-date information about nursing licensure in Missouri, visit the Missouri Board of Nursing’s website.
