Nursing (RN)NE
Nebraska Registered Nurse (RN) License Renewal Requirements
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Nebraska Registered Nurse (RN) License Renewal Requirements
Nebraska registered nurse licenses are regulated by the Nebraska Board of Nursing, under the Department of Health and Human Services. Nebraska is a member of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC).
At a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Body | Nebraska Board of Nursing (DHHS) |
| Renewal Cycle | Every 2 years |
| RN Expiration | October 31 of even-numbered years |
| LPN Expiration | October 31 of odd-numbered years |
| CE Hours Required | 20 contact hours (plus 500 practice hours) |
| Renewal Fee | $123 |
| Compact State (NLC) | Yes (eNLC member since 2018) |
| Online Renewal | Yes — nebraska.mylicense.com |
Continuing Competency Requirements
Nebraska offers multiple pathways to demonstrate continued competency. Choose one:
- 500 practice hours + 20 CE hours: Practiced nursing at least 500 hours in the past 5 years AND completed at least 20 contact hours of approved CE within the past 2 years (all hours may be online/home study)
- Recent graduate (2–5 years): Graduated from a nursing program in more than 2 but less than 5 years AND completed 20 CE hours within the past 2 years
- Recent graduate (under 2 years): Graduated from a nursing program within the last 2 years (no CE required)
- Refresher course: Completed an approved refresher course within the last 5 years
- Specialty certification: Obtained or maintained current certification in a nursing specialty from a nationally recognized certifying organization
- Portfolio: Developed and maintained a portfolio with continuing competency goals and evidence of professional activities
Nebraska-Specific Notes
- Compact state. If Nebraska is your primary state of residence, you may hold a multistate license.
- Practice hours + CE combination. The most common pathway requires both 500 practice hours AND 20 CE hours — it's not either/or for most active nurses.
- All CE may be completed online or via home study courses.
- Processing time: Up to 1 week for renewal applications.
- Postmark does not prevent expiration. Being postmarked by October 31 does not prevent your license from expiring, but it will be renewed when processed. Postmarked after October 31 requires reinstatement.
- Penalty for practicing expired: Administrative penalty of $10 per day, up to $1,000.
- Renewal notices are mailed and emailed prior to expiration.
- APRN renewal also on October 31 of even-numbered years, with additional national certification requirements.
- Military waivers available for service members stationed where CE is unavailable.
- Retain CE records for at least 4 years.
- New licensees exempt from CE during first renewal period (licensed within past 24 months).
How to Renew
- Meet one of the continuing competency pathway requirements
- Renew online at nebraska.mylicense.com (or submit paper application)
- Attest to meeting continued competency requirements
- Pay the $123 renewal fee
- Retain CE documentation for at least 4 years
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| RN/LPN Renewal | $123 |
| Reduced Rate (May–Oct of renewal year) | $30.75 |
| Reinstatement | $35 additional |
| Endorsement Application | $123 |
Contact Information
Nebraska Board of Nursing (DHHS)
- Website: dhhs.ne.gov — Nurse Licensing Renewal
- Online Portal: nebraska.mylicense.com
- Email: dhhs.nursingrenewals@nebraska.gov
- Fax: (402) 742-2360
- Phone: (402) 471-4376
- Address: Licensure Unit, Attn: Nursing, PO Box 94986, Lincoln, NE 68509-4986
This page is for informational purposes only. Requirements may change — always verify current requirements with the Nebraska Board of Nursing before renewing. Last reviewed March 2026.
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