NCLEX in Minnesota: $105 plus a $32 background check and a 90-day ATT
The Minnesota Board of Nursing publishes a clear fee structure: a $105 application fee and a $32 criminal background check fee. Its fingerprint packet is emailed to you the business day after you apply, and your ATT is valid for only 90 days.
Last checked October 2026. Based on the Minnesota Board of Nursing’s licensure by examination instructions and its annual licensure report. Confirm current amounts on the Board’s site.
The path for a new graduate
Apply for licensure by examination online or by paper, with the $105 fee and the $32 background check fee. Paper fees go by cashier's check or money order.
The Board's criminal background check office emails you a fingerprint packet the business day after you apply. This check is independent of any other you have done.
Register with Pearson VUE and pay the required fee.
Pearson VUE emails your ATT once the Board confirms eligibility. If you do not take the exam within 90 days, your Pearson VUE registration is no longer valid.
A guide says your license is typically issued about ten business days after you pass.
Things to know
- The application can be nullified. The Board’s instructions say that if the process is not completed in time, your application is nullified and you must apply again with a new fee.
- Disclose honestly. If you answer yes to the grounds for denial questions, the Board investigates before licensing.
- A review course. The Board’s pages refer to a review course that must be completed after applying, so check its review course page for when it applies to you.
- Border State recognition. Minnesota has a Border State License Recognition program for some nurses licensed in neighboring states. Check the Board’s page.
Common questions
What if I fail and retake?
The Board’s pages list an examination retake request application. Check the Board’s site for its fee and process, and re-register with Pearson VUE.
Is the process the same for every applicant?
The Board’s annual report says most examination applicants graduate from Minnesota programs, and describes the same steps for everyone: the application and fee, the background check, and Pearson VUE registration.