Everything you need to know about becoming a licensed registered nurse (RN) in Maryland — NCLEX requirements, renewal schedule, continuing education, and compact state status.
Yes
Compact State
2 years
Renewal Cycle
None
CE Hours Required
NCLEX-RN
Exam Required
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RN License Requirements in Maryland
To practice as a registered nurse in Maryland, candidates must complete the following steps:
1. Graduate from an accredited nursing program. Complete an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a program accredited by CCNE or ACEN. BSN programs are increasingly preferred by Maryland employers.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN. Register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE and pay the $200 examination fee. The exam uses computerized adaptive testing and typically takes 1.5 to 3 hours. The national first-time pass rate for U.S.-educated candidates is approximately 87%.
3. Apply to the Maryland Board of Nursing. Submit your application, transcripts, NCLEX scores, and applicable fees to the Maryland Board of Nursing.
4. Pass a background check. Maryland requires a criminal background check and fingerprinting as part of the initial licensure process. Prior convictions do not automatically disqualify applicants, but the board reviews each case individually.
5. Renew your license every 2 years. Maryland does not require mandatory CE hours for renewal, but ongoing professional development is expected.
Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC) Status
Maryland is a member of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). Nurses who declare Maryland as their primary state of residence can apply for a multistate license that authorizes practice in all other compact member states — both in person and via telehealth — without obtaining separate licenses.
To qualify for a multistate license, you must meet the uniform licensure requirements (ULRs) established by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN): graduation from an approved nursing program, passing the NCLEX, holding an unencumbered license, and completing a federal and state criminal background check. For travel nurses and telehealth practitioners, the compact significantly reduces administrative burden and licensing costs.
Transferring Your License to Maryland (Endorsement)
If you hold a valid RN license from another state, you can obtain a Maryland license through the endorsement process — no need to retake the NCLEX. The endorsement application requires verification of your current license (via Nursys or direct verification from the issuing state board), a background check, and payment of the endorsement fee. Processing times typically range from 4 to 8 weeks.
International nurses (those educated outside the U.S.) must have their credentials evaluated by an approved credential evaluation service such as CGFNS International or Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools before applying for Maryland licensure.
To obtain a registered nurse (RN) license in Maryland, you must: (1) graduate from an accredited nursing program (ADN or BSN), (2) pass the NCLEX-RN examination, (3) submit a license application to the Maryland Board of Nursing at https://mbon.maryland.gov, (4) pass a criminal background check, and (5) pay the required application fees. Maryland is a member of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), meaning you can apply for a multistate license if Maryland is your primary state of residence.
Is Maryland a compact nursing state?
Yes, Maryland is a member of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). Nurses who declare Maryland as their primary state of residence can obtain a multistate license that allows them to practice in all other compact member states without obtaining additional licenses. This is especially beneficial for travel nurses, telehealth practitioners, and nurses who live near state borders.
How often do nurses renew their license in Maryland?
Registered nurses in Maryland must renew their license every 2 years. Maryland does not require mandatory continuing education hours for RN license renewal, though nurses are expected to maintain professional competency. You must also pay the renewal fee and attest to continued competency. Practicing with an expired license is a violation of Maryland nursing law and can result in disciplinary action.
Can I transfer my nursing license to Maryland?
Yes. If you hold a valid RN license from another state, you can obtain a Maryland license through endorsement — without retaking the NCLEX. You will need to submit an endorsement application to the Maryland Board of Nursing, provide verification of your current license from the issuing state, pass a background check, and pay the endorsement fee. If your home state is also a compact member and you relocate to Maryland as your primary state of residence, you can convert your license to a Maryland multistate license.
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