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A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Oregon

Career Resources / Nursing Licensure / Oregon

Oregon is one of the most popular states to move to, and there’s good reason for that. The magnificent natural beauty and outdoor activities would be enough, but add to that the absence of a sales tax and the welcoming culture and it’s one of the country’s most pleasant places to live and work.

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How to get your Oregon nursing license by examination

Step 1: Education

Every nursing career starts with earning a nursing degree. The state of Oregon has published a list of approved Oregon baccalaureate and associate degree programs in the state, and has implemented a careful review and authorization process to ensure that out-of-state clinical learning experiences associated with online programs are up to the state’s high standards. Students who have graduated from out-of-state programs can find information about the state’s requirements for clinical placements here.

Step 2: Apply

Applying for an Oregon nursing license by examination begins with creating a user account on the state’s Licensing Portal. Mobile devices including tablets and cell phones are not supported and the platform functions best on a Windows desktop PC or laptop using Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

To complete the application and have it approved, you will need to meet the following requirements:

  • You must be within two years of graduation from an approved pre-nursing licensure program.
  • You must provide your Social Security number.
  • You must  have completed 2 hours of cultural competency education within the past 2 years. 
  • You must  provide documentation of the completion of the Pain Management Education through the Oregon Pain Commission.
  • After submission of your application, you must have your fingerprints collected per instructions that will be provided by the Board.  
  • You must submit the application fee of $160.

You should also register for the NCLEX-RN exam and pay the $200 registration fee.  

Step 3: Submit Transcripts

If you have graduated from an Oregon registered nursing program, your dean or director will affirm your graduation electronically through the state’s Affidavit of Graduation portal.

Those who have graduated from out-of-state nursing schools need to have official transcripts sent directly to the Oregon Board of Nursing by your nursing program. Official transcripts must include your graduation date and type of degree or diploma received.

Official transcripts can be sent electronically to [email protected] or by mail to:

Oregon State Board of Nursing
17938 SW Upper Boones Ferry Rd.
Portland, OR 97224

Step 4: Criminal Background Check (CBC)

Oregon state law requires that you submit to a criminal background check using Livescan, a digital process for fingerprint capture. Oregon has arranged for this process to be completed by Fieldprint, which has the largest network of Livescan collection sites in the country.

After you have submitted your application and payment for a license, you will receive a email containing instructions on how to get fingerprinted. The email will include a unique link that will take you to the Oregon State Board of Nursing section of Fieldprint’s website and allow you to schedule an appointment once you have registered, completed the demographic information, locate a fingerprinting location and schedule an appointment. You will be asked to pay a $70.50 fee. At the end of the process you will receive a confirmation page which you should print and take with you to your appointment, along with two forms of identification.

Fieldprint will send your fingerprints to the Oregon State Police, who will send them to the FBI. This process can take weeks, so it is important that you schedule your fingerprint appointment as soon as possible after receiving the code and link.

Step 5: Take the NCLEX

Upon completion and approval of your application, the Oregon Board of Nursing will notify Pearson VUE that you are approved and you will be emailed an Authorization to Test. You will be able to schedule a time to take the NCLEX-RN exam.

The exam is the last step to being licensed as a registered nurse. It will test your understanding of what you learned in nursing school, including:

  • Safe and Effective Care Environment
  • Management of Care  
  • Safety and Infection Control 
  • Health Promotion and Maintenance 
  • Psychosocial Integrity 
  • Physiological Integrity 
  • Basic Care and Comfort 
  • Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies 
  • Physiological Adaptation

Oregon requires applicants to pass the NCLEX exam within 2 years of their graduation from a nursing program. If you fail to pass within 2 years you will not be eligible to reapply for licensure by examination unless you graduate from an additional nursing program. A nursing re-entry program will not qualify.

If you fail the licensing examination you must meet the requirements for reexamination, including registering and paying the fee to NCLEX again. You cannot test sooner than the 46th day following your previous test date, but beyond that limitation you can re-test as many times as you wish during the two-year post-graduate time frame.

Oregon does not issue temporary practice permits to those awaiting the results of the NCLEX exam.

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Licensing by endorsement (already have RN licensure)

If you are a registered nurse licensed in another state and you wish to apply for licensure by endorsement in Oregon, you must have at least 400 hours of verifiable practice within the last two years or have graduated from your initial nursing program within two years of submitting your application.

Requirements for licensure by endorsement include:

  • Official transcripts from your pre-licensure nursing program, including your graduation date and type of degree or diploma received. This should be sent directly to the Oregon Board of Nursing at [email protected] or by mail to:

Oregon State Board of Nursing
17938 SW Upper Boones Ferry Rd.
Portland, OR 97224

  • License verification from your initial state of licensure showing your passing score on the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) or have the State Board Test Pool Exam (SBTPE) sent to the Oregon Board of Nursing. Most U.S. states participate in NURSYS for verification. If your state does not participate, have your information sent directly to the Oregon State Board of Nursing.
  • Complete two hours of cultural competency education within the past two years. 
  • Provide documentation of the completion of the Pain Management Education through the Oregon Pain Commission plus six hours of continuing education units.
  • After submission of your application, have your fingerprints collected.
    • The state of Oregon contracts with Fieldprint Inc. to collect digital fingerprint images from applicants for the background check.
    • Fieldprint Inc has collection sites in every state. Applicants may have their fingerprints imaged by appointment only at any Fieldprint site across the country.

Use this link http://www.fieldprintoregon.com to register, enter the code FPORBoardNursingDAS when prompted, and schedule an appointment on Fieldprint’s website.

How to renew your Oregon nursing license

Step 1: When to submit your renewal application

Oregon registered nurse licenses are good for two years and must be renewed by 11:59 pm on the nurse’s birthday in either an odd or an even year (based on if the nurse was born on an odd or even year). If you were licensed in an odd-numbered year but born in an even-numbered year, your renewal will be due on your next birthday since licenses cannot be granted for more than two years. This may mean that your first Oregon license is only good for a few months (depending on when your birthdate falls). While this may seem unfair, this requirement is legislatively mandated.

The Board sends out reminder notices starting at 90 days prior to the expiration date of your license, but not receiving a reminder notice is not a valid reason to be late on renewal. The state must have your application and $145 fee prior to that time. There is no grace period. If you renew within 30 days following the deadline you will be charged a $100 fee. After 30 days you will be charged an additional $50 per day.

Step 2: Fulfill continuing competency requirements

You must retake the Oregon Pain Management Commission module at every renewal, as well as completing two hours of cultural competency education. The cultural competency education does not need to be accredited or provide continuing education unit hours. 

Beyond these requirements, to meet continuing competency requirements registered nurses must have fulfilled 400 nursing practice hours in the previous two years. If you have worked less than 600 hours in the prior three years, 20 hours of continuing education is required. If you have worked less than 800 hours in the prior four years, 30 hours of continuing education is required, and if you have worked less than 960 hours of practice in the prior five years, you must apply for practice re-entry.

To help you stay up-to-date on your continuing competency requirements, Incredible Health offers free Oregon CEU classes. They are easy to access and include immediate certification of completion.

Step 3: Submit your renewal application

To apply for renewal of your Oregon nursing license, begin by creating a user account on the state’s new Licensing Portal. Mobile devices including tablets and cell phones are not supported and the platform functions best on a Windows desktop PC or laptop using Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

Oregon nursing licensing fees

Below are the fees for becoming a nurse in Oregon whether you are a first-time nurse or are moving to Oregon from another state. For more information visit the Oregon licensing page.

Licensing fees by examination (first-time nurses):

  • NCLEX fee: $200
  • Application fees: $160 (RN/LPN)

Licensing fees by endorsement (already have RN licensure):

  • Application fees: $195 (RN/LPN)

License renewal fees:

  • Application fees: $145 (RN/LPN)

*Fees are subject to change.
**Most states require a background check, but prices are not always listed.

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Continuing education requirements

RN/LPN:

  • One-time requirement to complete 7 hours of Pain Management CE in order to renew a license
  • The Oregon Pain Management Commission requires that 1 of these hours be fulfilled with their Pain Management module

Also, for renewal of licensure, the applicant must submit a fully completed application established by the Board and attest to one of the following:

(1)(a) 400 hours of nursing practice, at the level of the license sought, within the two years immediately preceding renewal application. Applicants initially licensed prior to January 1, 2021, must attest to having 400 hours of practice in the previous two years by their second renewal cycle after implementation of these rules. Prior to this second renewal, the applicant may use the previously required competency hours of 960 in 5 years; or
(b) Graduation from a Board-approved Oregon, or out of state school of nursing, or international nursing program within the two years immediately preceding renewal
application; or
(c) Completing a re-entry program

APRN:

An APRN may renew their license to practice if:
(1) The APRN has also renewed their license as a registered nurse. Hours practiced as an APRN count towards RN license renewal, however, practice hours at the RN level do not count for APRN renewal. RN and APRN license renewals may be done simultaneously

(2) The APRN has one of the following qualifications:
(a) Has practiced 400 hours at the APRN level in the two years preceding the receipt of a completed renewal application. APRNs initially licensed prior to January 1, 2021, must attest to having 400 hours of practice in the previous two years by their second renewal cycle after implementation of these rules. Prior to this second renewal, the applicant may use the previously required competency hours of 960 in five years; or
(b) Is within two years of graduation of initial APRN education program, or
(c) Is within two years of completion of a Board-approved re-entry program, or
(d) Is within two years of completion a post-master’s certificate in the specialty being renewed; or
(e) Has maintained active national certification

Incredible Health offers ANCC-accredited continuing education courses for nurses in all 50 states, 100% free and online. The Oregon State Board of Nursing accepts courses that are ANCC accredited.  

How to contact the Oregon Board of Nursing

Oregon State Board of Nursing
Fax: (971) 673-0684

Use email to contact:
[email protected]
Website: https://www.oregon.gov/osbn/Pages/index.aspx

17938 SW Upper Boones Ferry Road
Portland, OR 97224

More Oregon Resources

Written by Andi Tailleart

Andi joined Incredible Health in April 2021, after earning her Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology from Arizona State University. She has written for blogs, non-profit organizations, and academic papers. Andi is responsible for editing blog content for the Incredible Health website and thoroughly enjoys helping nurses get the information they need to succeed.

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Social Media and Nursing: A Guide for Appropriate Use

Career Resources / Social Media and Nursing

Leveraging social media to one’s advantage can help healthcare workers like nurses foster professional connections. It can also help nurses receive pertinent work-related information as well as educate and inform patients.

When not used appropriately and responsibly, however, social media is a liability to both nurses and their employers. This often happens when nurses divulge too much information on the internet and violate privacy laws.

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How social media misuse can affect your nursing career

Hiring managers may use your social media to inform their hiring decision. The average turnover cost for a nurse is between $37,000 and $58,000.

Given the cost and frequency of turnover, a quick screen of a potential candidate’s social media is well worth the time. In fact, a recent study revealed that roughly 70% of employers use social media to screen candidates during the hiring process.

Candidates should be aware of unattractive pictures of college parties, drug use, illegal activities, profanity, and other unprofessional behavior that can affect them negatively. Engaging in heated debates and controversial opinions are also no-nos.

A negative social media presence could influence employers’ decision to not offer an interview or a job. 

A nurse from Salem Health was put on administrative leave due to a controversial post she made on TikTok regarding COVID health restrictions. What she thought was a harmless post ended up resulting in her taking down not only her TikTok account but her Facebook one as well. Her careless actions ultimately left a mark on her nursing career. 

Inappropriate posts can violate patient privacy. Sharing something seemingly harmless like a photo on Facebook or Instagram can give away personally identifiable and confidential information that violates HIPAA.

Violating any HIPAA regulations can result in a fine anywhere between $100 – $50,000 per violation. Additionally, worst-case scenarios can permit a $250,000 fine and even possible imprisonment for as long as 10 years. So it’s essential that as a nurse, you’re being smart and safe on social media.

For example, a ProPublica report from 2015 detailed 47 different incidents of nursing home and assisted living workers misusing social media and violating patient confidentiality laws. 

Social media guidelines for nurses

Social media is a great outlet for nurses to express their feelings and seek support from friends, family, and colleagues. However, healthcare workers must be mindful of their usage. Here’s a look at three must-follow tips and standards provided by the American Nursing Association for nurses using social media.

Posting any PHI (Protected Health Information), without patient authorization, on social media may constitute a HIPAA violation. These violations include:

  • any text, image, video, or other media identifying the individual as a patient of the practice
  • any media where patients of a practice or PHI are visible
  • posts that include enough detail that could identify the patient
  • responding to patients posting an unfavorable review of a practice or citing a disagreement with a practice

Even seemingly harmless videos of nurses doing nice things for their patients can fall under these violations. To be safe, nurses should share photos and/or videos of patients only if the patient authorizes and consents to this information being shared.

Do not transmit patient information 

You can’t use social media to transmit any form of individually identifiable patient information. You can discuss various aspects of your workday with a patient, but you can’t provide any identifiable data. 

For example, if a patient gives you a ‘thank-you’ card for the care you’ve provided. On the inside of the card, the patient has signed their name. The front of the card, however, has absolutely no personally identifiable patient information.

So, you can make a post on social media using a picture of the front of the card, but not the inside. Also, keep in mind that you can’t say the patient’s name or the location in which they are receiving care.

Observe ethical patient-nurse boundaries

Although it is always encouraged for nurses to be warm and friendly towards patients, it’s important to maintain boundaries. In order to maintain proper conduct in patient-nurse relationships, it is inappropriate to communicate with patients outside of care. This includes not adding patients on any form of social media, no exchanging numbers, and obviously, not meeting outside of the healthcare facility.

Understand the privacy of posted content

Just because a nurse posts content on a personal social media profile doesn’t mean certain co-workers and patients won’t see it. This is especially true when nurses don’t separate their personal and professional profiles.

When nurses publish content, they never know when social media followers and friends will share the content with their own network. As a result, unintended parties may be able to see the post in question.

So, to avoid this, it’s highly recommended that nurses separate personal and professional profiles to take advantage of privacy settings. 

If you have not recently reviewed your social media privacy settings, don’t wait to check on them. You can choose to allow only certain groups of people to view your information by making your profile private. If your privacy settings are correctly set up, a hiring manager, patient, or anyone other than who you choose won’t be able to view your content. 

When in doubt, play it safe

Taking a conservative approach to what is shared with the public is the best option for nurses in most cases. Consider changing your privacy settings and always be aware of how what you’re posting may impact yourself, your patients, and your employer. In fact, it is even recommended that you do not disclose where you work or any of your colleagues.

More than half of hiring managers (57%) found inappropriate behaviors when screening candidates that lead them to not hire someone. The last thing nurses want when preparing for an interview is to hurt their chances of getting a new nursing job because of a careless post.

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Journi is dedicated to helping businesses amplify their voice and place within their markets, and has years of experience providing value to intended audiences through content writing.

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Top 5 Nursing Forums (And How to Use Them Effectively)

Career Resources / Nursing Forums

Nursing professionals have many tools at their disposal to help make them better at their jobs. From career resources to free online CEUs, there is hardly a shortage of online resources to help make you a better nurse.

Nursing forums are a great resource for connecting with other nursing professionals. Knowing how to find the most useful ones is an invaluable tool to add to your nursing toolkit. Googling “nursing forums” returns a lot of options. Since nurses are a busy bunch, we decided to compile a list of the forums with the most activity and positive reviews from users. Here are our top five picks for must-have nursing forums on your list (and tips for using them to your advantage).

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Top 5 nursing forums

1.      AllNurses.com

There is probably more information on this nursing forum than most nursing professionals ever need, but it is better to have too much than not enough. Blogs, informational articles, and current nursing headlines are featured on AllNurses. There is also an active forum where nurses can dish about the pros and cons of their jobs and ask questions relevant to nursing best practices. It even allows users to start their own “breakroom club” under the menu item “Breakroom,” found in the left-side menu on the main landing page. Discussions are categorized by nursing specialty and status. Even nursing students have a voice on this forum, making it an instrumental resource for surviving nursing school. Basic memberships on the site are free, with the option to upgrade to a Platinum membership with additional perks.

2.      Reddit.com nursing subreddit

Reddit is a wonderful forum for connecting with others who share careers and other interests. This Reddit nursing forum has more than 213,000 members who stop by to discuss the latest news and trends, plus anything that happens to be frustrating them about their chosen profession. They also share accomplishments and funny stories about their daily lives on the job. New nurses are invited to ask questions of the more seasoned nursing pros on the board, and all can share tips about new nursing gadgets and techniques they find helpful in providing the best nursing care possible to their patients. Nursing professionals must have a Reddit account to join the forum, which is moderated. When joining, we recommend not using any personally identifiable information in your username, which will be displayed for all other forum users to see every time you post. While these forums are helpful for nurses, they also can get them into hot water depending on what is being publicly discussed.

3.      Mighty Nurse

Operated by RN.com, this nursing forum bills itself as a one-stop shop for every nursing need. Visitors to the site can explore the best ways to advance their nursing careers, sign up for continuing education courses, and stay current on the latest news and nursing trends. New nursing graduates may find the temporary and permanent employment listings on the site helpful. Mighty Nurse also allows nursing candidates to upload their resumes to the site for consideration by healthcare facilities and providers actively seeking to fill nursing positions.

4.      Travel Nursing Forums

This forum, hosted by UltimateNurse.com, focuses on the unique situations experienced by travel nurses. Travel nurses are RNs from different clinical backgrounds who work for independent nursing staffing agencies. They fill in where they are most needed temporarily. Sometimes they help fill nursing gaps and other times they may provide in-home healthcare to patients who must receive ongoing nursing care for chronic conditions. Travel nurses can use the forum to connect with recruiters, talk to other travel nurses, and explore travel nurse best practices. There is even a section for travel partner hook-up that helps pair travel nurses who desire the security that comes with traveling in pairs.

5.      Incredible Health

Nurses can find everything they need to succeed in their profession right here on Incredible Health. From free nursing CEUs that keep you updated on the latest skills and trends in healthcare, to the best nursing opportunities on the U.S. market.  Aside from being able to leverage the site to find the ideal nursing position to match your skills and qualifications, there is also a forum for nurses to offer support and advice to one another. The Nurse Community forum gives nurses who are feeling stressed, burned out, or uncertain about their nursing careers a place to find solace and support from other nurses who have been there. Nurses must register to participate in the forum.

A final word on nursing forums

Protecting your privacy while using any nursing forum is a top priority. Nursing professionals are subject to the provisions in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Calling out patients by name, especially when disclosing confidential health information, is an absolute no-no.  HIPAA violations can be costly, so be sure you are not breaching confidentiality any time you are actively venting or sharing with other nurses online. Never post while you are on the clock, especially if you are logged in online through your employer’s server. As previously mentioned, avoid using personally identifiable information in usernames or any other shared online content you post. While having forums is a great way to connect with other nursing professionals, make sure you are being responsible. 

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At Incredible Health, it's a team effort to achieve our vision: Help healthcare professionals live better lives. Many are licensed practitioners themselves; others are simply passionate writers and leaders dedicated to providing valuable resources to nurses.

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A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Missouri

Career Resources / Nursing Licensure / Missouri

Living and working in Missouri has so many advantages! Located right in the center of the country, it’s easy to get wherever you want to go, and solid wages combined with a low cost of living makes achieving your dreams a real possibility.

In this article, we will cover:

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How to get your Missouri nursing license by examination

Step 1: Education

Missouri accepts applicants for licensure by examination from nurses who’ve attended programs within the state and from those educated out of state. Whether you earned your nursing degree online or in person, at a two-year Associate’s degree program or spent four years on a college campus, your accredited nursing education is the key to a rewarding career.

Step 2: Apply

Missouri’s application for nurse licensure is a paper form that must be completed, notarized, and submitted by mail along with all required supporting documentation to:

Missouri State Board of Nursing
P.O. Box 656
Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-0656

No documents will be accepted from the applicant electronically.

There is no application fee for individuals applying for licensure for the first time.

Applications must include proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the form of copies of a U.S. birth certificate, passport, or other official documents.

You also must register to take the NCLEX exam and pay the registration fee of $200. You can do this online at Pearson VUE or by phone at 1-866-496-2539. It is recommended that you do this 3-4 weeks before your graduation date.

Graduates of nursing programs are able to practice as a graduate nurse until the results of the first licensure exam have been received, or until 90 days after graduation, whichever comes first.

Step 3: Submit Transcripts

All applicants for nurse licensure by examination need to request an official transcript from their nursing program. The transcript must show the degree awarded and completion/graduation date. They can be sent directly to the Board of Nursing via Parchment, Credentials Solution, eSCRIP-SAFE, or National Student Clearinghouse to [email protected].

Step 4: Criminal Background Check (CBC)

All applicants for a Missouri nursing license must submit to a criminal background check. For in-state applicants, this process requires going to this website and registering using the four-digit registration number 0001. The name, date of birth, and Social Security number information that you enter on this registration must match what you used to fill out your licensure application.

Out-of-state applicants can use the IdentoGO Cardscan process. This requires having your fingerprints taken by a local law enforcement agency or other entity that provides fingerprinting services using either traditional ink or LiveScan fingerprints printed on a FBI FD-258 fingerprint card. Be sure to inform the technician capturing your fingerprints that Missouri requires that fingers be placed vertically, straight up and down when capturing the four finger slaps. Each finger and thumb will also need to be rolled completely from one side of the fingernail to the other side when capturing individual fingers.

Once demographic data has been filled out and fingerprints have been captured on a fingerprint card, enroll on the MACHS system. You will be routed to the IdentoGO website for selection of Fingerprint Card processing. Once you have paid the processing fees you will receive a pre-enrollment confirmation page. Print and sign this page, which includes a barcode. Mail the signed pre-enrollment confirmation page and the completed fingerprint card to:

IdentoGO
Cardscan Department – Missouri Program
340 Seven Springs Way, Suite 250
Brentwood, TN 37027

Step 5: Take the NCLEX

Once your application is complete and all required materials have been received, the Missouri Board of Nursing will contact Pearson VUE and notify them that you are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam. You will receive an Authorization to Test at the email address that you provided. Follow instructions from the candidate bulletin for scheduling your exam.

The NCLEX-RN is the last step on your journey to becoming a registered nurse. It is a standardized test that confirms you have retained and understand the information taught during your nursing program. Topics covered include:

  • Safe and Effective Care Environment
  • Management of Care  
  • Safety and Infection Control 
  • Health Promotion and Maintenance 
  • Psychosocial Integrity 
  • Physiological Integrity 
  • Basic Care and Comfort 
  • Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies 
  • Physiological Adaptation

Exam results are generally received by email within three business days of taking the test. The state does not issue a licensure card.If you need information about your license, visit the Licensure QuickConfirm page at www.nursys.com. Click on Look Up a License to get started. You can print a report that will show your license number, original issue date, expiration date, whether you have a multistate or single state license and discipline status. Please direct current or future employers to www.nursys.com to verify your license.

If you fail the NCLEX exam, you must fill out this form, have it notarized, and submit it with a $40 registration fee to:

Missouri State Board of Nursing
P.O. Box 656
Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-0656

You must wait 46 days from the last time you took the NCLEX to take it again. Retaking the examination requires registering at Pearson VUE again and paying the $200 fee.

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Licensing by endorsement (already have RN licensure)

Nurses who are licensed in another state can apply for a Missouri registered nurse license by endorsement. To begin this process, enroll in the NURSYS e-Notify system at www.nursys.com/enotify. If you qualify you will receive notification that you have been approved for a temporary permit and subsequent license through this system.

Complete, sign and have this application notarized and submit the application with a $105 fee paid via check or money order made payable to Missouri State Board of Nursing. The application should be submitted to:

Missouri State Board of Nursing
P.O. Box 656
Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-0656

In order to get your license by endorsement, you must: 

  • Submit evidence of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence.
  • Submit to a criminal background check. In-state applicants can visit this website and register using the four-digit registration number 0001. The name, date of birth, and Social Security number information that you enter on this registration must match what you used to fill out your licensure application.
    • Out-of-state applicants can use the IdentoGO Cardscan process. This requires having your fingerprints taken by a local law enforcement agency or other entity that provides fingerprinting services using either traditional ink or LiveScan fingerprints printed on a FBI FD-258 fingerprint card. Be sure to inform the technician capturing your fingerprints that Missouri requires that fingers be placed vertically, straight up and down when capturing the four finger slaps. Each finger and thumb will also need to be rolled completely from one side of the fingernail to the other side when capturing individual fingers.
  • Once demographic data has been filled out and fingerprints have been captured on a fingerprint card, enroll on the MACHS system. You will be routed to the IdentoGO website for selection of Fingerprint Card processing. Once you have paid the processing fees you will receive a pre-enrollment confirmation page. Print and sign this page, which includes a barcode. Mail the signed pre-enrollment confirmation page and the completed fingerprint card to:      

IdentoGO
Cardscan Department – Missouri Program
340 Seven Springs Way, Suite 250
Brentwood, TN 37027

  • Request verification of your nursing license from the state where you were originally licensed and any other states where you held a nursing license. If these states participate with the NURSYS system, request verification through their website. If you were licensed in a non-participating state, contact the Board of Nursing and ask them to submit verification of your license to the Missouri Board of Nursing at:

Missouri State Board of Nursing
P.O. Box 656
Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-0656

  • Request an official final transcript from your nursing program. The transcript must show the degree awarded and completion/graduation date. Electronic transcripts can be sent directly from Parchment, Credentials Solutions, eSCRIP-SAFE or National Student Clearinghouse to [email protected]. 

How to renew your Missouri nursing license

Step 1: When to submit your renewal application

Missouri’s registered nursing licenses expire on April 30th of each odd-numbered year. Nurses licensed in the state are asked to enroll in the NURSYS system’s e-Notify program at www.nursys.com/enotify. Doing so ensures that you will receive license renewal reminders, as well as notifications of any changes to your license or discipline status.

License renewal directions are emailed three months prior to the expiration date. There is no grace period to renew. If you have not renewed three days prior to the expiration date your license will lapse and you will be required to complete a reinstatement application.

Step 2: Fulfill continuing competency requirements

Missouri does not currently require nurses to fulfill any continuing competency requirements.

Step 3: Submit your renewal application

The notification that you receive through the eNotify service will provide instructions for renewal and a copy of the state’s Petition for License Renewal form. This needs to be completed, signed, and notarized, then returned with the $60 renewal fee to:

Missouri State Board of Nursing
P.O. Box 656
Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-0656

Missouri nursing licensing fees

Below are the fees for becoming a nurse in Missouri whether you are a first-time nurse or are moving to Missouri from another state. For more information visit the Missouri licensing page.

Licensing fees by examination (first-time nurses):

  • NLCEX fee: $200
  • Application fee: $0 (for first-time application)
  • Criminal background check fee: $41.75

Licensing fees by endorsement (already have RN licensure):

  • Application fee: $105 (RN); $101 (LPN); $150 (APRN)
  • Criminal background check fee: $41.75

License renewal fees:

  • Applicaiton fees: $60 (RN); $52 (LPN)

Missouri is a nursing compact state, which allows nurses to hold multi-state licenses.

*Fees are subject to change.

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Continuing education requirements

RN: None

LPN: None

APRN: None

How to contact the Missouri Board of Nursing

Missouri Board of Nursing
Phone: (573) 751-0681
Fax: (573) 751-0075

Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.pr.mo.gov/nursing.asp

Mailing address:
PO Box 656
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0656

Physical address:
3605 Missouri Boulevard
Jefferson City, MO 65109

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Written by Andi Tailleart

Andi joined Incredible Health in April 2021, after earning her Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology from Arizona State University. She has written for blogs, non-profit organizations, and academic papers. Andi is responsible for editing blog content for the Incredible Health website and thoroughly enjoys helping nurses get the information they need to succeed.

Read more from Andi

A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in New Mexico

Career Resources / Nursing Licensure / New Mexico

New Mexico is a state with endless career opportunities for nurses and a remarkable, welcoming environment. If you are interested in a nursing career in the Land of Enchantment, your first step is getting your license.

In this article, we will cover:

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How to get your New Mexico nursing license by examination

Step 1: Education

Whether you’ve prepared for a registered nursing career by pursuing a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing program or are about to graduate from a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, the road to your future starts with getting your nursing degree from an accredited nursing school.

To be considered for licensure as a registered nurse in New Mexico, you will need to provide proof that you have successfully completed one of these types of nursing programs. If you have graduated from a program within the state, your education can be verified through the Affidavit of Graduation Portal. 

Step 2: Apply

The application process begins with creating a new account through the New Mexico Nurse Portal. Once the account has been created, you can click “Apply for License,” then select the type of application and type of license for which you’re applying. Nurses will also need to request official transcripts from their out-of-state nursing programs or verify their New Mexico education through the Affidavit of Graduation Portal. A criminal background check will be required, as well as registration for the NCLEX-RN exam.

If you are interested in obtaining a Graduate Nurse Permit, you must submit your Examination Application for licensure within twelve weeks, and your prospective employer must submit a letter of verification of intent to hire, on stationary with their letterhead. This should provide the name of the institution where you will work along with your name and the license number of whoever will be responsible for ensuring that you are practicing under Direct RN Supervision. The Permit to practice is valid for six months from the date of application or until your exam results are issued. If you fail the NCLEX-RN exam, your permit will be voided. 

Step 3: Transcripts

Graduates of New Mexico-based nursing education programs can have their education verified through the Affidavit of Graduation Portal. All others must request that official transcripts be sent to the New Mexico Board of Nursing at:

New Mexico Board of Nursing
PO Box 3628
Albuquerque, NM 87190
Phone: (505) 841-8340

Electronic transcripts are accepted, preferably through either Parchment or E-Scrip Safe.

Step 4: Criminal Record Check 

A criminal background check is required for every applicant for a registered nursing license in New Mexico. The state works with Gemalto to provide both state and federal background checks. It is advised that you register online or by telephone (1-877-996-6277) no earlier than two weeks before submitting your application because the Board of Nursing can only retain the results for up to 30 days from the date the results are made available.

Use ORI# NM920190Z when applying. The cost is $44. Out-of-state applicants can request a fingerprint card request on this page and should follow the process found here. 

Step 5: Take the NCLEX

Pearson VUE manages the process of registering to take the NCLEX. You can do so by visiting their website or calling 1-866-496-2539. The cost is $200. Once you have registered, Pearson VUE will send notification to the Board of Nursing. Once the Board has received your completed application, they will direct Pearson VUE to send you an email containing your Authorization to Test. 

The NCLEX-RN is a wide-ranging exam that covers the following topics:

  • Safe and Effective Care Environment
  • Management of Care  
  • Safety and Infection Control 
  • Health Promotion and Maintenance 
  • Psychosocial Integrity 
  • Physiological Integrity 
  • Basic Care and Comfort 
  • Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies 
  • Physiological Adaptation 

If you pass the NCLEX-RN your license will be issued. Nurses who do not pass will receive notification and will automatically be eligible for re-examination. A re-examination application and payment should be submitted to Pearson VUE. New Mexico does not permit nurses to take the NCLEX-RN more than three times.

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Licensing by endorsement (already have RN licensure)

Application for a New Mexico registered nursing license by endorsement requires submission of an online application through the Nurse Portal, completion of the criminal background check, and verification of your out-of-state nursing license via NURSYS. 

Nurses who are licensed residents of Nurse License Compact states are not eligible to apply for a New Mexico nursing license unless they are making a permanent move. If that is the case, you must first provide proof of residency with a copy of a current New Mexico driver’s license.

How to renew your New Mexico nursing license

Step 1: New Mexico’s nursing license renewal rules

Registered nurses in New Mexico must renew their licenses every two years. Renewal applications can be submitted online, but will not be accepted until sixty days before license expiration.

Step 2: Fulfill continuing competency requirements

New Mexico requires registered nurses to complete 30 continuing education units every two years in order to renew their license. 

Incredible Health offers free continuing education units for New Mexico nurses. They are easy to access, can be completed quickly, and provide instant course completion certifications. The state does require proof of continuing education units. They can be submitted via CE Broker.

Step 3: Submit your renewal application

The New Mexico Board of Nursing’s renewal application can be submitted online via the Nurse Portal. Select “Apply for Renewal” and complete the application. 

New Mexico nursing licensing fees

Below are the fees for becoming a nurse in New Mexico whether you are a first-time nurse or are moving to New Mexico from another state. For more information visit the New Mexico licensing page.

Licensing fees by examination (first-time nurses):

  • NCLEX fee: $200
  • Application fee: $150

Licensing fees by endorsement (already have RN licensure):

  • Applicaiton fee: $150 (RN/LPN); $100 (APRN initial license)
  • Temporary permit: $60

License renewal fees:

  • Application fee: $110 (RN/LPN/APRN)

Additionally, New Mexico is a nursing compact state, which allows nurses to hold multi-state licenses.

*Fees are subject to change.
**Most states require a background check, but prices are not always listed.

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Continuing education requirements

RN: 30 hours every 2 years

LPN: 30 hours every 2 years

APRN: 30 hours every 2 years, in addition to:

  • APRNs must complete an additional 20 hours for their specialty, with additional requirements according to their DEA registration:
    • With DEA registration: 5 hours related to CNP’s practice, 10 hours relating to Pharmacology, 5 hours in management of non-cancer pain
    • Without DEA registration: 10 hours related to the CNP’s practice, 10 hours relating to Pharmacology

Incredible Health offers ANCC-accredited continuing education courses for nurses in all 50 states, 100% free and online. The New Mexico Board of Nursing accepts courses that are ANCC accredited.

How to contact the New Mexico Board of Nursing

New Mexico Board of Nursing
Phone: (505) 841-8340
Fax: (505) 841-8347

Website: https://nmbon.sks.com/

6301 Indian School Road NE
Suite 710
Albuquerque, NM 87110

More New Mexico Resources

Written by Andi Tailleart

Andi joined Incredible Health in April 2021, after earning her Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology from Arizona State University. She has written for blogs, non-profit organizations, and academic papers. Andi is responsible for editing blog content for the Incredible Health website and thoroughly enjoys helping nurses get the information they need to succeed.

Read more from Andi