Michigan License Overview
Compact / eNLCNo — Non-Compact
Endorsement Fee$75
Typical Timing8-12 weeks
NursysYes
Temporary LicenseYes
Board Phone(517) 335-0918
How Long Does It Take?
Typical timing: 8-12 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
ℹ Michigan is a non-compact state. A separate Michigan RN license is required to practice there.
Permanent License — Endorsement
- Apply online through the Michigan Bureau of Professional Licensing (BPL) portal and pay the $75 fee.
- Request license verification via Nursys. Michigan participates in Nursys.
- Submit fingerprints for a background check through an approved Michigan State Police (MSP) Livescan vendor. Out-of-state applicants may use an authorized FBI fingerprint provider.
- Processing typically takes 8–12 weeks — Michigan can be slow during high-volume periods.
Temporary License
- Michigan offers a temporary license valid for 90 days while your endorsement is under review.
- Request the temporary license through the BPL portal when submitting 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 $75. Temporary license is included. Renewal every two years is $75. Background check fees are separate.
Fees change. Always verify current amounts at the official Michigan Board of Nursing website before applying.
License Renewal
Michigan RN licenses renew biennially. Renewal requires no continuing education (verify current requirements). Renewal fee is $75.
Important Notes for Travel Nurses
- Michigan is a non-compact state — a separate Michigan license is required regardless of home state.
- Processing can take 10–12 weeks during busy periods — plan accordingly and use the temporary license to start on time.
- The BPL online system provides application status updates.
Last reviewed by TGL MedStaff: September 2026 —
Licensing requirements change. Always verify with the
Michigan Board of Nursing.
