Maine License Overview
Compact / eNLCYes — Compact
Endorsement Fee$100
Typical Timing4-6 weeks
NursysYes
Temporary LicenseYes
Board Phone(207) 287-1133
How Long Does It Take?
Typical timing: 4-6 weeks.
TGL Recruiter tip: Processing estimates change with fingerprint delays, missing documents, and application volume. Confirm the current timeline with the Board before promising a start date — and always start early.
Step-by-Step Licensing Process
✓ Maine is an eNLC compact state. Nurses holding a multistate license from a compact primary state may practice in Maine without a separate license.
Permanent License — Endorsement
- Apply online through the Maine State Board of Nursing portal and pay the $100 fee.
- Request license verification via Nursys. Maine participates in Nursys.
- Submit fingerprints for a background check — Maine uses the Maine State Police and an authorized Livescan vendor. Out-of-state applicants may submit FBI fingerprint cards.
- Processing typically takes 4–6 weeks.
Temporary License
- Maine offers a temporary permit valid for 90 days while your endorsement is processed.
- Request the temporary permit with your endorsement application.
TGL Recruiter tip: Start the licensing process as early as possible — especially for non-compact states, which can take 8–12 weeks. Your TGL recruiter will track your application status and help you time your assignment start date.
Fees
Endorsement fee is $100. Temporary permit is included. Biennial renewal is $100. Background check fees are separate.
Fees change. Always verify current amounts at the official Maine Board of Nursing website before applying.
License Renewal
Maine RN licenses renew biennially. Renewal requires 24 hours of continuing education per renewal period. Renewal fee is $100.
Important Notes for Travel Nurses
- Maine is a compact (eNLC) state — nurses with a multistate license from a compact home state may practice without endorsement.
- Maine's processing can slow during peak travel nursing seasons — plan 6 weeks in advance.
- The Board uses an online license lookup; facilities verify licenses before start dates.
Last reviewed by TGL MedStaff: September 2026 —
Licensing requirements change. Always verify with the
Maine Board of Nursing.
