Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Missouri

• Complete an associate or bachelor’s degree from an approved college or university. (Nurses who have a current license in another state may apply for an RN license by endorsement).
• Fill out the required licensure by examination forms with the Board of Nursing, which includes a $45 fee for RNs or $150 for advance practice recognition. Applications must be sent to the Board no later than three months before graduation.
• As a Nurse Licensure Compact state, nurses hold a compact license from the applicant’s home (primary) state. Applicants must fill out a declaration of primary state of residence form with their licensing application.
• Submit a 2” by 2” signed photograph with your notarized application
• Complete a criminal background check at least two weeks after submitting an application to the Board
• Register to take the NCLEX and pay the accompanying fee to Pearson Vue
• Once you receive an Authorization to Test, complete NCLEX registration and take the exam (three months to four weeks prior to graduation)
• Request your nursing school transcripts be sent to the Board of Nursing.
• Enroll in the e-Notify system to receive notifications about changes in your license or discipline status

Nurses in Missouri must renew their licenses every two years to continue practicing. Licenses expire on April 30 of every odd-numbered year and those with current licenses receive renewal notices about two months before the expiration date. Missouri does not require nurses to take continuing education hours to renew a nursing license; however, that doesn’t necessarily mean that RNs will not need to fulfill these credits – many health care employers mandate that nurses and other health care professionals complete some form of CE on a regular basis. For more information, it’s best to speak with your current or potential employer.

Many RNs in Missouri choose to continue their education to advance – and specialize – their careers as advance practice nurses. These specialty nurses include nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners.

Like other specialists in the health care field, advance practice nurses must obtain additional certification. In addition to typical RN licensure requirements, advance practice nurses must also:

• Hold a current Missouri or Compact Registered Nurse (RN) license
• Complete all field experience requirements for the specialty license for which you are applying
• Hold a master’s degree or higher in the nursing field for which you are applying
• Complete the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Application and pay all required non-refundable fees
• APRNs must re-certify with their certifying body at least three months before expiration. A copy of your re-certification must be sent to the Missouri Board of Nursing.

Advance practice requirements vary depending on the individual specialty. For more details on current licensing and renewal information, visit the Missouri Board of Nursing.