By Shincy George | NursingManthra
If you’re an internationally educated nurse (IEN) aiming to work as a registered nurse in Montana, USA, you’re in the right place. This blog will guide you step-by-step through the RN licensure process set by the Montana Board of Nursing, even if you’re applying from outside the U.S.
✅ Why Choose Montana?
Montana is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state. This means that once you receive your RN license in Montana and establish residency there, you can work in any of the other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses.
🧾 Step-by-Step Application Process
📌 1. Credential Evaluation for International Nurses
If you obtained your nursing education outside the U.S., you must submit a credentials evaluation through one of the following approved agencies:
- Josef Silny & Associates, Inc.
- Trümmerit (formerly CGFNS)
- International Education Evaluations, Inc. (IEE)
➡️ These agencies will evaluate whether your nursing education is equivalent to a U.S. RN program. Make sure to request a course-by-course evaluation.
⏱️ Processing Time: 6–12 weeks
💡 Tip: Start early to avoid delays in your application.
💻 2. Online Application through Montana eBiz Portal
You must submit your RN application online via the Montana Department of Labor & Industry eBiz Portal:
🔗 https://ebiz.mt.gov/POL
Choose the option “Registered Nurse by Examination.”
💳 Application Fee: $100 USD
📝 Make sure to:
- Create an account with a valid email address
- Complete all required fields
- Upload documents if available
📄 3. Submit Official Transcripts
Your nursing school must send your official transcript directly to the Montana Board of Nursing. Hand-delivered or scanned copies are not accepted.
📍Address:
mathematicaCopyEditMontana Board of Nursing
301 South Park Ave, 4th Floor
P.O. Box 200513
Helena, MT 59620-0513
USA
🧠 4. Register for NCLEX-RN Exam
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) from Pearson VUE.
🖥️ Register at: https://www.pearsonvue.com/nclex
💵 Fee: $200 USD
📚 At NursingManthra, we offer specialized NCLEX-RN coaching, practice questions, and support for IENs preparing for this exam.
🕵️ 5. Fingerprinting & Criminal Background Check
All applicants must undergo a fingerprint-based background check. You’ll receive fingerprint instructions via email after submitting your application.
📌 For candidates outside the U.S.:
- Request fingerprint cards via mail
- Get prints taken by a local police station
- Return completed cards with the Background Check Authorization Form
💵 Fee: Usually around $30–$60 USD
🔁 6. Temporary Permit (Optional)
Montana may issue a temporary permit while your license is in process. This is especially useful if you’re waiting for NCLEX results or endorsement verification.
📝 To apply, submit a separate request and pay an additional $25 fee.
🕓 7. Processing Timeline
⏳ Processing Time: Up to 30 business days
🗂️ Incomplete applications will be closed after 12 months
🏥 Already Have a U.S. RN License?
If you’re already licensed in another U.S. state and wish to work in Montana:
➡️ Apply for Licensure by Endorsement
💵 Fee: $200 USD
📌 Submit:
- License verification from the other U.S. state
- Criminal background check
- Proof of active license status
🔄 RN License Renewal in Montana
🗓️ RN licenses in Montana must be renewed every two years by December 31 of odd-numbered years.
💳 Renewal Fee: $100 USD
🧾 CE Requirements: There are no mandatory CE hours, but you must answer CE-related audit questions during renewal.
📌 Quick Recap for IENs
| Step | Task | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ | Credential Evaluation (CGFNS/Josef Silny/IEE) | ✔ |
| ✅ | eBiz Application | ✔ |
| ✅ | Official Transcripts | ✔ |
| ✅ | NCLEX-RN Registration | ✔ |
| ✅ | Fingerprints/Background Check | ✔ |
| 🚫 | SSN (Not mandatory to apply) | ❌ (But required for final license) |
📞 Need Help?
At NursingManthra, we assist internationally educated nurses with:
- Credential evaluation guidance
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- Application form submission
- Fingerprint documentation
- Exam support and U.S. relocation advice
📢 Final Words from Shincy George
“Montana is one of the most nurse-friendly states in the U.S., and the good news is that you can start your RN license application even without an SSN. If you’re ready to take your nursing career international, NursingManthra is here to guide you every step of the way.”
👉 For personal assistance, contact us at www.nursingmanthra.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
📱 YouTube: NursingManthra Channel
