Pursuing a career in nursing and looking to get your nursing license in Minnesota? This comprehensive guide provides all the key details, requirements, timelines, and fees associated with obtaining and maintaining a nursing license in the state of Minnesota.
Minnesota Nursing Schools
- Number of nursing schools in Minnesota: 53
- Average NCLEX passing rate for Minnesota ADN programs: 83.03%.
- Average NCLEX passing rate for Minnesota BSN programs: 82.52%.
- Find the best ranked Minnesota nursing schools:
- Best Nursing Schools
- Best RN to BSN programs
- Nurse Practitioner programs
Nursing Licenses in Minnesota at A Glance
| Type | Status |
|---|---|
| eNLC | No |
| Walk-Through | No |
| Temp License | Yes |
| Nursys | Yes |
| BON Website | Minnesota Board of Nursing |
| Contact Phone | (612) 317-3000 |
Steps, Timelines, and Cost for a Nursing License in Minnesota
Table Overview
| Step in Licensure Process | Timeframe | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Complete Nursing Program (ADN/BSN) | 2-4 years (ADN), 4 years (BSN) | $10,000 – $60,000+ |
| Register for NCLEX Exam | Varies | $200 – $500 |
| Fingerprinting/Background Check | Depends on state | $50 – $100 |
| Take NCLEX Exam | Once registered | Included in registration |
| Await NCLEX Results | Up to 6 weeks typically | N/A |
| Apply for State Licensure | After passing NCLEX | $105 (Endorsement Application) |
| Temporary License Issued (if applicable) | Varies | No extra charge |
| Obtain Official Nursing License | The BON does not commit to a timeframe | Included in application fee |
| Renewal of License | Every 2 years during your birth month | $85 |
| Continuing Education | Every 2 years | Varies |
For more information about the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), you can visit Nurse Compact.
Key Highlights for Minnesota Nursing Licenses
- NCLEX Exam Authorization: To take the NCLEX, which is a critical step in becoming a licensed nurse, visit the NCLEX information page for details on registration and preparation.
- State Licensure Application: The application process includes checking your application status through Nursys, where you can also verify your license once issued.
- Nursing Program Duration and Cost: The typical duration for ADN programs is 2-4 years and for BSN programs is 4 years. Costs range from $10,000 to over $60,000.
- NCLEX Exam Authorization: Steps for obtaining authorization include registering for the NCLEX exam, with varying costs and processing times.
- NCLEX Registration and Additional Fees: Registration costs $200-$500, with additional fees for fingerprinting or background checks around $50-$100.
- NCLEX Results Waiting Time: Nurses in Minnesota typically wait up to 6 weeks to receive their NCLEX results.
- State Licensure Application: The application process includes fees ($105 for Endorsement Application) and varies in timeframe as the BON does not commit to a specific duration.
- Temporary Licenses: Temporary permits are issued at no extra charge, valid for a limited period, and their issuance timeframe varies.
- Official Nursing License Timeframe and Fees: The BON does not commit to a timeframe for issuing official licenses; the cost is included in the application fee.
- License Renewal Process: Licenses are renewed every 2 years during the nurse’s birth month, with a renewal fee of $85. RNs need 24 contact hours and LPNs need 12 contact hours of continuing education during the 2-year renewal period.
Minnesota Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Licenses
Summary and Key Takeaways: Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) licenses in Minnesota are essential for nurses aiming for specialized roles such as Certified Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Anesthetists, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Nurse-Midwives, or Clinical Nurse Leaders. These licenses require additional education, certification, and adherence to state-specific regulations. Understanding the steps to obtain and maintain an APRN license is crucial for nursing professionals in Minnesota.
APRN License Highlights
- Education Requirements: APRNs must complete a graduate-level program in one of the four recognized APRN roles. For more details on the pathway to becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP), visit the guide on how to become a nurse practitioner.
- Certification: National certification in the chosen role is required. For specific information about the role of a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), explore the CRNA career path. Additionally, Clinical Nurse Specialists can find tailored information at Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS).
- State Licensure: Each APRN role, including the Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) and the Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL), requires an application to the Minnesota Board of Nursing, inclusive of fees and proof of education and certification.
- Prescriptive Authority: This varies by state. In some states, APRNs, including those in nurse practitioner and nurse-midwife roles, require a collaborative agreement with a physician or additional certification.
- Renewal and Continuing Education: APRN licenses must be renewed periodically, complying with requirements for continuing education or practice hours.
- Practice Authority: The full practice authority in Minnesota allows APRNs to perform a wide range of patient care services, as detailed in the Minnesota Nurse Practice Act.
- eNLC Participation: APRNs in Minnesota can practice in other Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC) states, further detailed at Nurse Compact.
- Scope of Practice: Defined by state law, including comprehensive patient care activities.
- Role-Specific Requirements: Each APRN role has additional requirements related to education, clinical hours, or specialized skills.
- Transition to Practice: New APRNs in Minnesota may be required to complete supervised practice hours before gaining full practice authority.
- Insurance and Liability: It’s important for APRNs to understand malpractice insurance requirements and secure appropriate policies based on their employment situation and state regulations.
