RN Warehouse

Montana nursing license rules

Compact state

RN and LPN · Last checked October 29, 2026 · Sources

Montana is a compact state (since January 2018). If your primary state of residence is another compact state and you hold a multistate license, you can work in Montana in person or by telehealth without a new license. If you live in Montana, your multistate license is issued here.

RN renewalEvery 2 years
RN CE hours per cycleNone set
RN endorsement fee$200
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
When it expires
Expires Dec 31; online renewal opens Nov 2 (board lists even-year and odd-year groups)
Renewal fee
$100
Continuing education
No set number of CE hours. The state may require other proof of competence (such as practice hours or a certification) or specific courses; check the board's renewal page.
Required CE topics
None found on the board's pages.
Endorsement fee
$200
Fingerprints for endorsement
Yes, a criminal background check with fingerprints
Temporary permit
Available. ARM lists a $25 temporary permit; board also offers a 21-day temporary registration for out-of-state licensees in limited situations
How to apply
Apply online (ebiz.mt.gov/pol); Nursys license verification; fingerprints to Montana DOJ ($30 processing). Multistate holders moving to MT apply within 60 days.

Moving or traveling

Moving to Montana from another compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state within 60 days (rule effective 2024-01-02). May keep practicing on the old multistate license until the new one is issued; the old one is then deactivated. Can apply before moving.

Moving here from a non-compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state; a multistate license may be issued if residency and uniform requirements (incl. state and federal fingerprint background checks) are met. The old single-state license is unaffected.

Check another state

Board of nursing

Montana Board of Nursing

Licenses: RN, LPN

Board home · Renewal · Endorsement · CE rules
This page summarizes Montana's rules from the board's own pages as of October 29, 2026. Fees and rules change, so confirm with the board before you apply or renew. Spotted something out of date? Email hello@lawfrogrnesq.com.

Sources