What Are the Minnesota Nursing Requirements?

Thinking about becoming a nurse in Minnesota? Here’s a clear, current walkthrough of how to qualify, whether you’re starting from scratch, moving here with an existing license, or working near the state line.

Because rules evolve, it helps to go straight to the source. The Minnesota Board of Nursing outlines the exam process for initial licensure, endorsement for already licensed nurses, and special options, including the Border State License Recognition program. The essentials are distilled below. This information is essential for aspiring nurses in Minnesota.

Meeting Nursing School Education Requirements

To be eligible for RN or LPN licensure in Minnesota, you must graduate from an approved nursing program. For most applicants, “nursing school requirements” mean completing a state-approved professional (RN) or practical (LPN) program that prepares you for the National Council Licensure Examination to obtain a nursing license.

If it has been five years since program completion, Minnesota requires a board-recognized review course before testing. Plan your academics with licensure in mind so your coursework, clinical hours, and timing align with application rules.

How to Earn a Minnesota Nursing License by Exam

If Minnesota is your first license, you’ll apply for licensure by examination. Key steps include: 

• Submit the application and fees (currently $105 plus $32 for the criminal background check)
• Complete the state fingerprinting/background check
• Have your school send confirmation of completion directly to the Board
• Register with Pearson VUE
• Receive your Authorization to Test
• Take the NCLEX within the 90-day window.

The Board notes applications expire if you don’t test within a year. When you pass, your Minnesota nursing license is typically issued about 10 business days later.

Build your personal timeline around the NCLEX ATT validity period and your program’s graduation date. This is one of the most overlooked nursing school requirements in practice.

Licensure by Endorsement

If you’re licensed in another U.S. state or by the NCLEX in Canada and want to practice here, apply for a Minnesota nursing license by endorsement. You’ll need to: 

• Create an online account
• Submit the endorsement application and fee
• Complete Minnesota’s background check
• Provide verification of your original license
• Have your most recent employer complete the Confirmation of Nursing Employment form. 

You may request a temporary permit while your application is processed. If issued, it’s valid until licensure or 60 days, whichever comes first, and cannot be extended.

Compact Status and Border-State Options

Minnesota is not an NLC (Nurse Licensure Compact) state, so a multistate compact license does not authorize practice in this state. You’ll need endorsement or another Minnesota-recognized pathway.

One such pathway is the Border State License Recognition program, which allows qualified RN/LPNs licensed in bordering states to practice in Minnesota after registering with the Board’s Border State Registry and receiving confirmation before starting work.

Fees apply, and you must refile when you change employers or renew your border-state license.

Keeping Your License Active

To renew, Minnesota requires continuing education every two years (24 contact hours for RNs; 12 for LPNs). Keep documentation of each activity. Academic credits can be converted to contact hours. 

This ongoing education pairs well with your career goals. Choose continuing education that advances clinical skills, leadership, or specialty knowledge. Staying current on continuing education is just as critical as meeting initial nursing school requirements because it keeps your Minnesota nursing license in good standing.

St. Catherine University’s Online Nursing Programs

If you’re mapping out the education piece to become a nurse, St. Catherine University offers online nursing degrees designed for different stages of a nursing career. Programs emphasize holistic, equity-minded practice and are built with the flexibility working adults need. It’s ideal if you’re balancing prerequisites, clinicals, and the timeline leading up to the NCLEX or endorsement.

Explore St. Kate’s online pathways for aspiring and advancing “Katie Nurses,” from undergraduate through graduate levels. The curriculum’s real-world focus and supportive community can help you meet nursing school requirements, prepare for licensure, and continue professional growth well beyond your first Minnesota nursing license renewal.