MO · Internationally educated nurses

Missouri RN license requirements

A researched starting point for applying to Missouri State Board of Nursing, including education review, English rules, identification requirements, background checks, and the NCLEX sequence.

Compact status

Nurse Licensure Compact member

Credential evaluation

The foreign-educated RN examination packet requires a Board-accepted course-by-course evaluation/education documentation; use the packet for the currently accepted services.

English requirement

Evidence of English proficiency is required as specified in the Board’s separate English Proficiency document; exemptions and scores are document-specific.

SSN requirement

The reviewed public packet search result did not establish a safe no-SSN characterization; confirm with the Board.

Background check

Missouri requires a criminal background check/fingerprints for initial licensure as directed in the application.

Education review

Foreign education must meet Missouri requirements; foreign-language credentials require English translation. The Board determines deficiencies.

Application sequence

How to apply in Missouri

  1. 1

    Download and complete the foreign-educated RN examination packet.

  2. 2

    Have education evaluation, transcripts and any license verification submitted as directed.

  3. 3

    Submit English evidence and complete fingerprints.

  4. 4

    Register with Pearson VUE; test after Board eligibility and ATT.

Documents to prepare

  • Foreign RN examination application
  • Transcript and nursing certificate/diploma
  • Credential evaluation
  • English evidence
  • Foreign license verification
  • Certified translation where needed

Verify before paying

  • Missouri publishes pathway-specific PDF packets; use the newest packet linked by the Board.
  • A multistate license requires Missouri primary residence.

Apply through the official board

This guide helps you compare requirements; it is not the application. Check the current instructions from Missouri State Board of Nursing before ordering reports or submitting documents.

Official sources reviewed

Research checked 2026-07-22. Requirements can change.

General educational information only. The state board is the authority on licensure eligibility; immigration authorization is a separate process.