Missouri nursing license by endorsement
How a nurse licensed in another state gets a Missouri license by endorsement: the application fee ($105 for an RN), the steps, background check, temporary license, renewal and continuing education, with the board's own sources.
| At a glance | Missouri |
|---|---|
| Licensing board | Missouri State Board of Nursing |
| Nurse Licensure Compact | Compact state |
| RN license by endorsement, application fee | $105 |
| LPN/LVN license by endorsement, application fee | $101 |
| Fingerprint background check | Required. Fingerprint background check through MACHS after applying online; results obtained for other agencies or employers cannot be used. |
| Nursys license verification | Accepted |
| Temporary license while you wait | Temporary permit (single state). Single-state permit valid up to six months or until licensure is granted or denied, whichever comes first. |
| RN renewal cycle | Every 2 years, fee $85 |
How to get your Missouri license, step by step
- Check the compact first. If your primary state of residence is a compact state and you hold a multistate license, you can practice in Missouri without applying again. If you move your residence to Missouri, you apply for a Missouri license as your new home state.
- Start the application on the board's site. Use the board's licensure by endorsement page.
- Verify your license through Nursys. Request verification from each state where you are or were licensed. Boards that use Nursys receive it electronically.
- Complete the fingerprint background check. The board requires fingerprints for endorsement applicants. Follow its instructions for where to get them taken.
- Ask about the temporary license. The board offers a temporary permit (single state) while the application is processed. Check the conditions before you plan a start date.
- Pay the fee and send documents. The application fee is $105 for an RN. Fingerprint and vendor fees can be separate. Keep copies of everything you submit.
- Tell your recruiter your status. Employers set their own start dates around licensing, so your recruiter needs to know where your application stands.
Specific to Missouri
- RN licenses expire April 30 of odd-numbered years; LPN licenses expire May 31 of even-numbered years.
- No renewal grace period; board states renew at least 3 business days before expiration or the license may lapse.
- U.S. Social Security number (RSMo 324.024) and proof of lawful presence are required to apply.
What RNs earn in Missouri
The BLS median for registered nurses in Missouri is $38.35 per hour, about $79,770 a year. See the full RN salary guide for Missouri.
| Metro area | Median / hr | Median / year |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas City, MO-KS | $39.73 | $82,630 |
| St. Louis, MO-IL | $39.69 | $82,560 |
| Columbia, MO | $39.12 | $81,370 |
| Cape Girardeau, MO-IL | $38.22 | $79,490 |
| Jefferson City, MO | $36.50 | $75,930 |
| St. Joseph, MO-KS | $35.94 | $74,750 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS, May 2024.
RN jobs in Missouri · Missouri state guide · Nurse Licensure Compact guide · Endorsement checklist
Sources
These facts come from the Missouri State Board of Nursing web pages below. Checked 2026-10-16.
- sos.mo.gov/cmsimages/adrules/csr/current/20csr/20c2200-4.pdf (fees, renewal fee, temporary license)
- pr.mo.gov/boards/nursing/OnlineApplicationSimpleChecklist.pdf (endorsement application, Nursys verification, state notes)
- pr.mo.gov/nursing-fingerprints.asp (background check)
- pr.mo.gov/nursing-renewal.asp (renewal, state notes)
Requirements change. Always confirm with the Missouri State Board of Nursing before you apply or accept a start date. This guide is general information and not legal advice.
Common questions
How much does a Missouri nursing license by endorsement cost?
The Missouri State Board of Nursing lists an application fee of $105 for an RN and $101 for an LPN/LVN. Fingerprint and vendor fees can be charged separately.
Is Missouri a nurse licensure compact state?
Missouri is in the Nurse Licensure Compact. A nurse whose home state is also a compact state can practice here on a multistate license.
Can I work in Missouri while my license is processed?
The board offers a temporary permit (single state). Single-state permit valid up to six months or until licensure is granted or denied, whichever comes first. Confirm the conditions with the board.
How long does it take to get a Missouri license?
The Missouri State Board of Nursing does not publish a fixed time. It depends on how fast your verification and background check arrive, so apply before you accept a start date.
Does Valorem Health help with Missouri licensing?
Your recruiter tells you which license each role needs and what the facility requires. You apply to the board, and our credentialing team helps with documents for onboarding.
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Your RN pay reportMissouri · pay published by employers and employer-reported wage offers in federal filings
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- Veterans Health AdministrationKansas City, MO · 8 postings$52.14/ hr$33–$76
- Select MedicalSaint Louis, MO · 9 postings$46.00/ hr$34–$56
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- Truman Medical Centers, Inc.Kansas City, MO · 2 wage offers$32.45/ hr$32–$33
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