A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Maine

How to Acquire a Maine Nursing License Through Examination

Step 1: Education
Maine offers a variety of reputable nursing programs at both the associate and bachelor's levels. The Maine Board of Nursing provides a list of approved programs across the state. Whether you graduate from a program in Maine or elsewhere, completing your degree is a key milestone as you move forward with your licensing application. Available options include:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Accelerated BSN for those who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field.

Step 2: Application
You can submit your application online through the Maine State Board of Nursing’s portal. A $75 application fee is required, along with your Social Security number, a photo, and a signed application page. You will also need to register for the NCLEX exam, which requires a separate $200 fee.

Step 3: Official Transcripts
In-state graduates need their school to send a Certification of School Form directly to the Maine Board of Nursing. Out-of-state graduates should request their school to send a final transcript verifying the degree and confer date.

Step 4: Criminal Background Check
For license examination, you must complete fingerprinting through Maine Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the FBI, processed by IdentoGO. Direct mailing of fingerprint cards or results is not accepted. The fingerprinting fee is $52.

Step 5: NCLEX Examination
Once all documents are submitted, Pearson VUE will notify you of eligibility and send an Authorization to Test. The NCLEX is essential to becoming a licensed RN. The exam assesses knowledge in the following areas:

• Safe and Effective Care
• Care Management
• Infection Control
• Health Promotion
• Psychosocial and Physiological Integrity
• Basic Comfort
• Pharmacological Therapies

A passing score grants you a Maine nursing license. If you do not pass, you may retake the exam after 45 days with a new $200 fee, though your background check is only valid for 90 days.

Licensing By Endorsement

For RNs licensed in other states, applying for endorsement is the process of transferring your license to Maine. The process includes a $75 fee, a photo, a signed application page, and any explanations for disciplinary actions. Additional requirements include:

• A letter from your nursing program verifying RN licensure criteria.
• Transcripts may be requested, especially for those holding an accelerated BSN.

You will also need to undergo a fingerprint-based background check through DPS and the FBI, with a $52 fee. If your state uses NURSYS, you can request verification online for $30 per state. If not, you should contact the respective state board for verification.

Renewing Your Maine Nursing License

Step 1: Renewal Timeline
All renewals are done online. Initial licenses last one to two years. Subsequent renewals occur biennially, with a $75 fee for RN licenses.

Step 2: Continuing Competency
Maine does not require continuing education for RN license renewal. However, Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) must complete 50 hours of continuing education every two years. Additionally, those with prescriptive authority must complete 3 hours on opioid prescription.

Step 3: Submit Renewal
You can submit your renewal application and $75 fee through the Maine State Board of Nursing’s online portal.

Maine Nursing Fees

Here are the current fees for Maine nurses, whether new applicants or those relocating from other states:

• By Examination:
  • NCLEX: $200
  • Application: $75 (RN); $50 (LPN)
• By Endorsement:
  • Application: $75 (RN); $50 (LPN); $100 (APRN)
• Renewal:
  • Application: $75 (RN); $50 (LPN); $100 (APRN)

Maine is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact, which allows nurses to hold a multi-state license.

Continuing Education Requirements

• RN: No continuing education required
• LPN: No continuing education required
• APRN: 50 hours every two years
  • Prescriptive authority requires 3 hours on opioid prescriptions

For free continuing education courses, MedBridge offers a variety of ANCC-accredited courses that are accepted by the Maine Board of Nursing.

Contacting the Maine Board of Nursing

Maine State Board of Nursing
Phone: (207) 287-1133
Fax: (207) 287-1149
Website: Maine State Board of Nursing

Additional Maine Resources

Explore top hospitals, nursing schools, and average RN salaries in Maine through various resources available online, including MaineHealth and the University of New England School of Nursing.

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