Idaho Registered Nurse (RN) License Renewal Requirements
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Idaho Registered Nurse (RN) License Renewal Requirements
Idaho registered nurse licenses are regulated by the Idaho Board of Nursing, under the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL). Idaho is a member of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). Important: Idaho is transitioning to biennial licensure beginning April 1, 2026.
At a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Body | Idaho Board of Nursing (DOPL) |
| Renewal Cycle | Every 2 years (transitioning from current cycle April 2026) |
| RN Expiration Date | August 31 of odd-numbered years |
| LPN Expiration Date | August 31 of even-numbered years |
| CE Hours Required | Continuing competency model (see below) |
| Renewal Fee | ~$70 (RN); ~$90 (APRN) |
| Compact State (NLC) | Yes (eNLC member since 2018) |
| Online Renewal | Yes — Nurse Portal |
Continuing Competency Requirements
Idaho uses a learning activity model rather than a fixed CE hour requirement. You must complete at least 2 learning activities from the categories below during each 2-year renewal period:
Category A: Practice
- Current nursing specialty certification
- 100 hours of nursing practice or simulation practice
Category B: Education
- 15 contact hours of continuing education
- Completion of at least 1 semester credit hour of post-licensure academic education
- Completion of a Board-recognized refresher course
- Participation in or presentation of a workshop, seminar, or conference
Category C: Professional Engagement
- Published nursing-related article (acknowledged contributor)
- Teaching or developing a nursing-related course
- Participation in related professional activities (research, volunteer work, precepting, peer review, auditing, serving on nursing/healthcare boards or committees)
Choose any 2 activities from any combination of categories.
Important: Legislative Changes
Recent legislative changes have affected Idaho's CE requirements. The Board has noted that new rules no longer require CEU/CCR's for standard renewals in the traditional sense. The continuing competency model described above is now the framework. Check the Board's website for the most current rule text, as this is an evolving area.
For APRNs, national certification is still required and maintaining that certification does require meeting the certifying body's CE requirements (including pharmacology hours and practice hours).
Idaho-Specific Notes
- Biennial licensure transition. Beginning April 1, 2026, DOPL is transitioning to biennial licensure. Check the Board News page for how and when your specific renewal cycle will be impacted.
- Compact state. If Idaho is your primary state of residence, you may hold a multistate license.
- Renewal window: May 1 through August 31. Application available in the Nurse Portal starting May 1.
- If not renewed by August 31: License lapses. You cannot practice until reinstated.
- New graduate exemption: Exempt from continuing competency requirements during first renewal cycle.
- Audit possible. If selected, you must submit documentation within 30 days.
- Board is paperless. All communication is via email. Keep your email current in the Nurse Portal.
- No specific mandatory CE topics — all CE must be relevant to nursing practice.
How to Renew
- Complete at least 2 learning activities from the categories above
- Log in to the Nurse Portal (available May 1)
- Complete the online renewal application
- Pay the renewal fee
- Retain documentation of learning activities for at least 5 years
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| RN Renewal | ~$70 |
| APRN Renewal | ~$90 |
| Application (Exam/Endorsement) | $98.25 |
| Temporary License | $25 |
Contact Information
Idaho Board of Nursing (DOPL)
- Website: dopl.idaho.gov/bon
- Email: HP-Licensing@dopl.idaho.gov
- Phone: (208) 334-3233
- Address: P.O. Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0061
This page is for informational purposes only. Requirements may change — always verify current requirements with the Idaho Board of Nursing before renewing. Last reviewed March 2026.
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