The Michigan Board of Nursing (MBON) plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, competency, and professionalism of nurses across the state. Whether you’re a new nursing graduate, a licensed nurse looking to renew your credential, or a nurse interested in understanding the regulations governing the profession, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Michigan Board of Nursing in 2025.
What is the Michigan Board of Nursing?
The Michigan Board of Nursing operates under the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Its primary job is to regulate nursing practice and license nurses in Michigan, ensuring they meet professional standards and provide safe healthcare services.
The Board enforces the Michigan Public Health Code and nursing administrative rules that define the scope of practice and standards for registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) including Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Midwives, Nurse Anesthetists, and Clinical Nurse Specialists.
The board’s official website offers continuous updates and resources for nurses practicing in Michigan. Visit Michigan Board of Nursing for official documents and news.
Types of Nursing Licenses in Michigan
Michigan offers several types of nursing licenses to accommodate various nursing roles in healthcare:
| License Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Basic nursing license providing broad care responsibilities |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Provides basic nursing care under supervision |
| Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)* | APRN specializing in improving patient outcomes |
| Nurse Practitioner (NP)* | APRN providing advanced primary or specialty care |
| Nurse Midwife (NM)* | APRN specializing in midwifery care |
| Nurse Anesthetist (NA)* | APRN specializing in anesthesia |
(*Denotes Advanced Practice Registered Nurses – APRNs)
Michigan Board of Nursing Fees and Important Dates 2025
Application Fees for New Licenses
- RN or LPN by Examination or Endorsement: $212.90
- This fee covers the application plus a two-year license fee.
- Payment is made online via the MiPLUS portal using credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover).
- Temporary License Fee: Included in the application fee for those eligible for temporary permits.
- Criminal Background Check Fee: $62.75 (required for all new applicants except certain renewals).
License Renewal Fees
- RN or LPN Renewal Fee: $131
- Licenses are valid for 2 years and must be renewed biennially. This fee must be paid online.
- RN with Specialty Certification Renewal Fee: $161.40 (if applicable).
Late Renewal Fees
- There is a 60-day grace period after license expiration during which renewal is permitted.
- Late Renewal Fee: $20 if renewal is done within this 60-day period.
- If renewal is not completed within the 60-day grace period, you must apply for relicensure, which may involve additional fees and requirements.
Important Dates to Remember
- Renewal Notice: Michigan nurses receive renewal notices approximately 90 days before license expiration.
- Renewal Deadline: Licenses expire every 2 years, typically on the nurse’s birthdate. Renewal must be completed before the expiration date to avoid late fees.
- Grace Period: A 60-day grace period is allowed after expiration for renewals with the late fee.
Applying for a Nursing License in Michigan
New Applicants
Applying for your initial nursing license in Michigan is a fully online process. After completing your approved nursing education program, you will:
- Create an account on the Michigan Professional Licensing User System (MiPLUS) portal.
- Submit your application with required documents and fees.
- Wait for approval and eligibility to sit for the NCLEX examination (for RN and LPN).
- Upon passing the NCLEX, your license will be officially issued.
For detailed application steps and to start your online application, visit MiPLUS Portal.
Foreign-Educated Nurses
Foreign-educated nurses need to register with the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) and meet English proficiency requirements. Temporary licenses may be granted for up to one year to complete NCLEX testing.
For more details on the process and certification, check CGFNS Certification and Michigan’s regulations on foreign nurse licensing.
License Renewal Process and Requirements
Validity and Renewal Periods
- Initial RN and LPN licenses are valid for 2 years.
- All subsequent renewals also cover 2-year periods.
Renewal Process
- Nurses receive renewal notices approximately 90 days before license expiration.
- Renewals must be done online via MiPLUS portal Renew Your License.
- There is a 60-day grace period to renew after expiration, with a late fee of $20.
Renewal Fees
Licensing fees apply for renewals, payable online during the renewal application.
Continuing Education (CE) Requirements
Michigan requires nurses to complete 25 hours of continuing education every two years prior to license renewal. Key CE requirements include:
- At least 2 hours dedicated to pain and symptom management.
- A mandatory one-time human trafficking awareness module.
- An implicit bias training as required for all healthcare workers in the state.
CE courses must be approved by recognized organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or Michigan Nurses Association (MNA). Nurses should retain CE records for at least 4 years as audits may occur randomly.
Learn more about CE requirements and approved providers on the Michigan Nurses Association CE page.
Nurse Practice Rules and Standards
The Michigan Board of Nursing administers rules that define what constitutes ethical and safe nursing practice in Michigan. These include:
- Adhering to a standard nursing scope consistent with license type (RN, LPN, APRN).
- Compliance with the Michigan Public Health Code and administrative rules.
- Proper use and control of controlled substances in pain management.
- Reporting any unethical or unsafe behaviors as mandated by law.
Access the full set of nursing administrative rules here.
Special Considerations for Foreign-Educated Nurses
To practice in Michigan, foreign-educated nurses must:
- Obtain CGFNS certification.
- Submit proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
- Apply for a temporary license if NCLEX examination is pending.
- Complete licensing applications through the MiPLUS system.
The Michigan Board of Nursing supports internationally educated nurses transition effectively, recognizing their skills while ensuring patient safety.
How to Use MiPLUS: Michigan’s Licensing Portal
MiPLUS (Michigan Professional Licensing User System) is the online portal used by nurses in Michigan for:
- Applying for new licenses.
- Renewing existing licenses.
- Updating personal contact details.
- Checking license status and renewal dates.
Visit MiPLUS Login and create an account to access all licensing services electronically—making licensing smooth and accessible.
Conclusion
The Michigan Board of Nursing ensures the highest standards for nursing professionals through rigorous licensure, renewal, and regulatory processes. Staying informed about the licensing requirements, continuing education, and regulatory changes empowers Michigan nurses to practice safely and effectively.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official Michigan Board of Nursing site and use the MiPLUS portal for all licensing transactions.
Additional Resources
| Topic | Link |
|---|---|
| Michigan Board of Nursing | https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bpl/health/hp-lic-health-prof/nursing |
| Michigan Nurses Association (Licensure Info) | https://minurses.org/resources/licensure-renewal-info |
| Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) or TruMerit | https://www.trumerit.org/ |
| Human Trafficking CE Module | https://minurses.org/ |
FAQs
Q1. Can I renew my license early?
A: Yes, but you should only renew within 90 days of expiration to avoid overlapping fees.
Q2. What happens if I fail to renew on time?
A: A 60-day grace period is allowed, but with an additional $20 late fee. After that, relicensure is required.
Q3. Are LPNs eligible for specialty certification?
A: No, only RNs and APRNs can obtain specialty certifications.
Q4. Do I have to submit proof of CE during renewal?
A: No, but you must keep records for 4 years and submit if audited.
Q5. Is human trafficking training mandatory?
A: Yes, a one-time training is required for every Michigan nurse.
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