Nursing CE
Requirements
by State

State:
ALABAMA

RNs:
24 contact hours every 2 years

NPs:
24 contact hours including 6 in pharmacology.

LPNs:
24 contact hours every 2 years.

State:
ALASKA

RNs:
Every 2 years: 2 of the 3 are required for license renewal: 30 contact hours, OR 30 hours professional nursing activities, OR 320 hours nursing employment.

NPs:
At least 30 contact hours of continuing education, including 15 contact hours of education in advanced pharmacology and clinical management of drug therapy.

If you hold a current DEA registration,
2 hours of education in pain management and opioid use and addiction in the two-year renewal period is required.

LPNs:
Every 2 years: two of the following three are required for license renewal: 30 contact hours, OR 30 hours professional nursing activities, OR 320 hours nursing employment.

State:
ARIZONA

RNs:
No CE Required.

NPs:
If less than 960 hrs of practice over the past 5 years, 45 hrs of education in advanced pharmacology and 45 hrs in subjects related to the APRN role are required.

APRNs who hold an active DEA license, MUST have completed a minimum of three hours of opioid-related, substance use disorder-related or addiction-related continuing education.

LPNs:
No CE Required.

State:
ARKANSAS

RNs:
15 contact hours every 2 years.

NPs:
15 contact hours every 2 years. Licensees with prescriptive authority are required an additional 5 contact hours in pharmacotherapeutics related to specialty.

LPNs:
15 contact hours every 2 years.

RNs:
30 contact hours every two years.

NPs:
30 contact hours every two years. NPs with prescriptive authority must complete 3 contact hours on Schedule II controlled substances as part of the 30 hours. CNMs must complete 2 contact hours on Schedule II controlled substances including both risks of addiction and neonatal abstinence syndrome associated with opioids.

LPNs:
30 contact hours every two years.

State:
COLORADO

RNs:
No CE Required.

NPs:
Beginning with license renewals on or after October 1, 2022, advanced practice nurses with opioid prescriptive authority are required 2 hours of substance use prevention training, every renewal period.

LPNs:
No CE Required.

RNs:
Beginning with renewals after January 1, 2022, and every 6 years thereafter, 2 contact hours are required in screening for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, risk of suicide, depression and grief; and suicide prevention training.

NPs:
50 hours of continuing education related to your area of practice every two years.

LPNs:
Beginning with renewals after January 1, 2022, and every 6 years thereafter, 2 contact hours are required in screening for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, risk of suicide, depression and grief; and suicide prevention training.

RNs:
24 contact hours every 2 years, 3 of which must be in HIV/AIDS or Director's Topics* and 2 of which must be in LGBTQ or cultural awareness.

NPs:
24 contact hours every 2 years 15 of which must be in pharmacology, 3 of which must be in HIV/AIDS or Director's Topics* and 2 of which must be in LGBTQ or cultural awareness.

LPNs:
18 contact hours every two years, 3 of which must be in HIV/AIDS or Director's Topics* and 2 of which must be in LGBTQ or cultural awareness.

State:
DELAWARE

RNs:
30 contact hours every 2 years, 3 hours of which must be in substance abuse.

NPs:
APRNs with prescriptive authority are required 2 hours in controlled substances prescribing practices, treatment of chronic pain, or related topics per the Uniform Controlled Substances Act.

LPNs:
24 contact hours every 2 years, 3 hours of which must be in substance abuse.

State:
FLORIDA

RNs:
16 hours plus state mandates, including 2 hours for medical error prevention, 2 hours for nursing laws, 2 hours for human trafficking, 2 hours for workplace impairment, 1 hr for HIV/AIDS.

NPs:
16 hours plus state mandates, including 2 hours for medical error prevention, 2 hours for nursing laws, 2 hours for human trafficking, 2 hours for workplace impairment, 1 hr for HIV/AIDS. APRNs authorized to prescribe controlled substances also need 3 hours in Safe and Effective Prescription of Controlled Substances every renewal.

LPNs:
16 hours plus state mandates, including 2 hours for medical error prevention, 2 hours for nursing laws, 2 hours for human trafficking, 2 hours for workplace impairment, 1 hr for HIV/AIDS.

State:
GEORGIA

RNs:
30 contact hours of continuing education every two years.

NPs:
30 contact hours of continuing education every two years.

LPNs:
20 hours every 2 years.

State:
HAWAII

RNs:
Every 2 years, 30 CEs or 9 other options.

NPs:
30 hours of continuing education, of which at least 8 hours in pharmacology and 22 hours in your practice specialty every 2 years.

LPNs:
Every 2 years, 30 CEs or 9 other options - See State Board website.

State:
IDAHO

RNs:
15 contact hours of continuing education every 2 years.

NPs:
30 contact hours every two years, 10 of which must be in pharmacology if the nurse has prescriptive authority.

LPNs:
15 contact hours of continuing education every two years.

State:
ILLINOIS

RNs:
20 contact hours every two years.

NPs:
80 contact hours every 2 years. 50 hours must be in the area of practice, 20 hours in pharmacotherapeutics, and 10 hours must be in safe opioid prescribing. APRNs with Schedule II included in their Controlled Substances Registration must complete 3 hours annually in pharmacology.

LPNs:
20 contact hours every two years.

State:
INDIANA

RNs:
No CE Required.

NPs:
APNs with prescriptive authority must obtain 30 contact hours, 8 of which must be in pharmacology every two years.

LPNs:
No CE Required.

State:
IOWA

RNs:
36 contact hours every 3 years and mandatory Dependent Adult Abuse Mandatory Reporter Training and DS 169 Child Abuse Mandatory Reporter Training.

NPs:
36 contact hours every 3 years and maintain current certification in specialty. ARNPs who regularly examine, attend, counsel or treat dependent adults or children must also complete 2 contact hours of training related to child/dependent adult abuse. ARNPs who prescribed opioids during the renewal cycle are required to complete 2 hours every three years regarding the CDC guidelines for prescribing opioids for chronic pain.

LPNs:
36 contact hours every 3 years. LPNs who regularly examine, attend, counsel or treat dependent adults or children must complete 2 contact hours of training related to child/dependent adult abuse.

State:
KANSAS

RNs:
30 contact hours every 2 years.

NPs:
30 contact hours every 2 years.

LPNs:
30 contact hours every 2 years.

State:
KENTUCKY

RNs:
14 contact hours every year.

NPs:
14 contact hours every year including 5 contact hours in pharmacology.

LPNs:
14 contact hours every year.

State:
LOUISIANA

RNs:
A minimum of 30 hours OR a minimum of 900 practice hours every two years.

NPs:
Every year 30 hours at the advanced level and directly related to the full  scope of the advanced practice role and population focus for APRN whose role and population focus does not provide for  certification/recertification and 6 hours in pharmacotherapeutics for APRN with prescriptive authority.

LPNs:
No continuing education required at this time.

State:
MAINE

RNs:
14 contact hours every year.

NPs:
14 contact hours every year including 5 contact hours in pharmacology.

LPNs:
14 contact hours every year.

State:
MARYLAND

RNs:
Complete one of the following for license renewal: 

1,000 hours of active nursing practice within the 5 previous years; or  

Board-approved nursing education program within the 5 previous years; or 

30 CEUs within the 2 years immediately preceding renewal.

NPs:
No CE is required, but must maintain national certification.

LPNs:
Complete one of the following for license renewal:

1,000 hours of active nursing practice within the 5 previous years; or

Board-approved nursing education program within the 5 previous years; or

30 CEUs within the 2 years immediately preceding renewal.

RNs:
15 contact hours every 2 years.

NPs:
15 contact hours every 2 years and maintain current certification through a national certifying organization.

LPNs:
15 contact hours every 2 years.

State:
MICHIGAN

RNs:
25 contact hours every 2 years including 2 hours on pain and symptom management and 1 hour on human trafficking.  

NPs:
25 contact hours every 2 years including 2 hours on pain and symptom management and one hour on human trafficking.

LPNs:
25 contact hours every 2 years including 2 hours on pain and symptom management and 1 hour on human trafficking.  

State:
MINNESOTA

RNs:
24 contact hours every 2 years.

NPs:
24 contact hours every 2 years (for RN licensure) and maintain licensure as an APRN through a national certifying body.

LPNs:
12 contact hours every 2 years.

RNs:
CE not required. 20 contact hours if out of practice for greater than five 5 years.

NPs:
5 contact hours directly related to prescribing of controlled substances and maintain national certification.

LPNs:
No CE Required. 20 contact hours if out of practice for greater than five 5 years.

State:
MISSOURI

RNs:
CE not required.

NPs:
CE not required.

LPNs:
CE not required.

State:
MONTANA

RNs:
24 contact hours every 2 years.

NPs:
24 hours of continuing education and 12 hours in the area of pharmacotherapeutics for APRN with prescriptive authority every two years.

LPNs:
24 contact hours every 2 years.

State:
NEBRASKA

RNs:
20 contact hours every 2 years

NPs:
20 contact hours every two years (to maintain RN licensure). Licensees who prescribe controlled substances shall include at least 3 hours on prescribing opiates.

LPNs:
20 contact hours every two years.

State:
NEVADA

RNs:
30 hours every two years. including the state-required bioterrorism course. Beginning with renewals on or after January 1, 2022, all licensees are also required 2 hours relating to cultural competency and diversity, equity, and inclusion. These hours count toward the 30 hours.

NPs:
45 contact hours every two years, 15 of which must be related to the area of practice and are required 2 hours of training in evidence-based suicide prevention and awareness. There is a one-time requirement of 4 contact hours in Bioterrorism.

Beginning with renewals on or after January 1, 2024, APRNs are required at least 2 hours related to substance use disorder every renewal.

LPNs:
30 contact hours every two years. including the state-required bioterrorism course. Beginning with renewals on or after January 1, 2022, all licensees are also required 2 hours relating to cultural competency and diversity, equity, and inclusion. These hours count toward the 30 hours.

RNs:
30 contact hours every 2 years.

NPs:
60 contact hours including 30 hours in specialty certification and, 30 hours to maintain RN licensure, and 5 hours of Pharmacology.

LPNs:
30 contact hours every 2 years.

RNs:
30 contact hours every 2 years, including 1 hour on prescription opioid drugs, alternatives to opioids for managing and treating pain and the risks of opioid abuse, addiction, and diversion

NPs:
30 contact hours every 2 years and 1 hour concerning prescription opioid drugs, including alternatives to opioids for managing and treating pain, and the risks and signs of opioid abuse, addiction, and diversion. The 30 hours for APN renewal must also include 2 hours related to end-of-life care. There is a one-time requirement of 1 contact hour of education on Organ and Tissue Donation and Recovery.  

LPNs:
30 contact hours every 2 years, including 1 hour on prescription opioid drugs, alternatives to opioids for managing and treating pain and the risks of opioid abuse, addiction, and diversion

RNs:
30 contact hours every 2 years.

NPs:
30 contact hours every two years plus 20 additional contact hours in the following: 5 hours in the scope of practice, 10 hours in pharmacology, and 5 hours in non-cancer pain management.

LPNs:
30 contact hours every two years.

State:
NEW YORK

RNs:
Must complete course work or training in Infection Control at initial licensure and every four years thereafter. In addition, there is a one-time requirement of 2 hours in Child Abuse Identification and Reporting..

NPs:
Must complete course work or training in Infection Control at initial licensure and every four years thereafter. In addition, there is a one-time requirement of 2 hours in Child Abuse Identification and Reporting.

LPNs:
Must complete course work or training in Infection Control at initial licensure and every four years thereafter.

RNs:
One of the following every two years: national certification or recertification, 30 contact hours of continuing education, a board-approved refresher course, 2 semester hours of post-licensure education related to nursing practice, 15 CEU contact hours and completion of a nursing project, or 15 hours on CEU education and 640 hours of active practice within the previous two years. See website for further details.

NPs:
One of the following every two years: national certification or recertification, 30 contact hours of continuing education, a board-approved refresher course, 2 semester hours of post-lecnsure education related to nursing practice, 15 CEU contact hours and completion of a nursing project, or 15 hours on CEU education and 640 hours of active practice within the previous two years.

APRN-NPs must also maintain national certification which requires 50 contact hours, and one hour in controlled substances.,

See website for further details.

LPNs:
One of the following every two years: national certification or recertification, 30 contact hours of continuing education, a board-approved refresher course, 2 semester hours of post-lecnsure education related to nursing practice, 15 CEU contact hours and completion of a nursing project, or 15 hours on CEU education and 640 hours of active practice within the previous two years. See website for further details.

RNs:
12 contact hours every two years.

NPs:
12 contact hours every two years. APRNs authorized to prescribe are required an additional 15 contact hours in pharmacology.

LPNs:
12 contact hours every two years.

State:
OHIO

RNs:
24 contact hours every two years, 1 of which must be directly related to the laws and rules of the Ohio Nurse Practice Act..

NPs:
24 hours of continuing education every two years for each APRN license held including at least 12 of the 24 contact hours must include CE in advanced pharmacology for APRN-CNP, APRN-CNS, or APRN-CNM.  

LPNs:
24 contact hours every two years, 1 of which must be directly related to the laws and rules of the Ohio Nurse Practice Act.

State:
OKLAHOMA

RNs:
RNs are required one of the following every two years: verify 520 hours of employment a year, complete 24 hours of continuing education, verify or complete current certification in a nursing specialty area, or complete 6 academic semester credits hours of coursework.

NPs:
Every two years 15 hours of continuing education in pharmacotherapeutics, clinical application, and use of pharmacological agents in the prevention of illness, and in the restoration and maintenance of health, for those with prescriptive authority including 2 hours of education in pain management or 2 hours of education in opioid use or addiction, unless the APRN does not currently hold a valid federal DEA registration number.

LPNs:
RNs are required one of the following every two years: verify 520 hours of employment a year, complete 24 hours of continuing education, verify or complete current certification in a nursing specialty area, or complete 6 academic semester credits hours of coursework.

State:
OREGON

RNs:
2 hours of cultural competency education, a one-time requirement of 6 hours in pain management and/or treatment of the terminally ill and dying patients, plus an additional one-hour course specific to Oregon provided by the Pain Management Commission of the Department of Human Services.

NPs:
Active certification required. APRN-NPs licensed prior to January 1, 2011, are required 45 contact hours of CE in population foci instead of national certification.

LPNs:
2 hours of cultural competency education, a one-time requirement of 6 hours in pain management and/or treatment of the terminally ill and dying patients, plus an additional one-hour course specific to Oregon provided by the Pain Management Commission of the Department of Human Services.

RNs:
30 contact hours every two years, including 2 hours of approved child abuse recognition and reporting training.

NPs:
Non-prescribing NPs are required 30 CE hours related to specialty every two years, including 2 hours of approved child abuse recognition and reporting training.

NPs with prescriptive or dispensing authority are required 30 hours related to specialty every two years, 16 of which must be in advanced pharmacology, including 2 hours of child abuse recognition and reporting training and a minimum of 2 hours in pain management, identification of addiction, or the practices of prescribing or dispensing opioids.

LPNs:
2 hours of approved child abuse recognition and reporting training every two years.*

RNs:
10 contact hours every 2 years including 2 hours of substance abuse CE.

NPs:
10 contact hours every 2 years including 2 hours of substance abuse CE. Licensees authorized to prescribe are required to submit evidence of 30 hours in pharmacology every 6 years.

LPNs:
10 contact hours every 2 years including 2 hours of substance abuse CE.

RNs:
30 contact hours every 2 years. May also show proof of competence by maintenance of certification by a national certifying body, completion of an academic program, or employer certification.

NPs:
30 contact hours every 2 years. A minimum of 20 of the required 30 contact hours to be in pharmacotherapeutics related to specialty, including 2 hours specific to prescribing controlled substances if authorized to prescribe controlled substances.  

LPNs:
30 contact hours every 2 years. May also show proof of competence by maintenance of certification by a national certifying body, completion of an academic program, or employer certification.

RNs:
CE not required.

NPs:
Required to maintain national certification. No CE Required.

LPNs:
No CE Required.

State:
TENNESSEE

RNs:
5 contact hours every year for practicing nurses. Must be accompanied by two documents verifying competence or 10 contact hours annually for those not practicing and one additional document verifying competence. See website for more details.

NPs:
Every two years - 5 hours of continuing education (10 hours if not currently practicing) and 2 hours of continuing education to address controlled substance prescribing practices, including the Tennessee Chronic Pain Guidelines, for APRN with Certificate of Fitness.

LPNs:
5 contact hours for practicing nurses accompanied by two documents verifying competence or 10 contact hours for those not practicing and one additional document verifying competence. See website for more details.

State:
TEXAS

RNs:
20 contact hours every 2 years. Mandatory CE requirements including Forensic Evidence Collection for Nurses and Nursing Jurisprudence and Ethics for Texas Nurses.

NPs:
20 contact hours every 2 years. APRNs with prescriptive authority must complete an additional 5 contact hours of pharmacotherapeutics every two years.

LPNs:
20 contact hours every 2 years. Several mandatory CE requirements such as Nursing Jurisprudence, Ethics, Geriatric Care, and Forensic Collection.

State:
UTAH

RNs:
One of the following every 2 years: 30 contact hours, OR 200 practice hours and 15 contact hours, OR 400 practice hours.

NPs:
APRNs are required the following every two years: Must maintain national certification, and be currently certified in specialty area, or complete 30 hours of CE (if licensed prior to 7/1/92) and 400 hours of practice each year.

LPNs:
One of the following every 2 years: 30 contact hours, OR 200 practice hours and 15 contact hours, OR 400 practice hours.

State:
VERMONT

RNs:
No CE Required.

NPs:
Required to maintain national certification. APRNs who prescribe or dispense controlled substances must complete 2 hours on controlled substances every two years..

LPNs:
No CE Required.

State:
VIRGINIA

RNs:
15 contact hours of continuing education and 640 hours of active practice within the previous two 2 years, or one of nine other options. See website for more details.

NPs:
APRNs are required to maintain national certification, or 40 contact hours in specialty areas approved by certifying agency every two years. Licensees authorized to prescribe are required an additional 8 hours in pharmacology.

LPNs:
15 contact hours of continuing education and 640 hours of active practice within the previous two 2 years, or one of nine other options. See website for more details.

RNs:
8 contact hours every year. There is a one-time requirement of 6 hours of suicide prevention training at initial licensure.

NPs:
Every two years - 30 hours of continuing education in specialty area and 15 hours of continuing education in pharmacology for ARNP with prescriptive authority.

LPNs:
8 contact hours every year. There is a one-time requirement of 6 hours of suicide prevention training at initial licensure.

RNs:
12 contact hours every year. Must include best prescribing and drug diversion training if licensee prescribes, administers, or dispenses controlled substances. Also mandatory training for mental health conditions common to veterans and their families.

NPs:
24 hours every two years with 12 hours in pharmacotherapeutics and 12 hours in the clinical management of patients. 12 of these hours may count toward CE requirement for RN license.

LPNs:
24 contact hours every two years, 3 of which must be in chemical dependence/substance abuse disorders and 2 must be related to mental health conditions common to veterans and family members of veterans.

State:
WISCONSIN

RNs:
CE not required.

NPs:
Every two years - 16 hours of continuing education in clinical pharmacology or therapeutics relevant to the advanced practice nurse prescriber's area of practice, including at least 2 contact hours in responsible prescribing of controlled substances.

LPNs:
CE not required.

State:
WYOMING

RNs:
One of the following every two years: 
 
400 hours of active nursing practice, or 

200 hours of active nursing practice, and 15 hours of continuing education, or  

if less than 200 hours of active nursing practice, 30 hours of continuing education..

NPs:
One of the following: Current National Certification OR 60 contact hours every 2 years AND 400 hours of employment as an APRN in specialty of advanced practice Prescriptive Authority: 5 contact hours every 2 years in pharmacology, pharmacotherapeutics, or drug therapy.

LPNs:
One of the following every two years:
 
400 hours of active nursing practice, or

200 hours of active nursing practice, and 15 hours of continuing education, or  

if less than 200 hours of active nursing practice, 30 hours of continuing education.

State:
Guam

RNs:
Completion of 30 contact hours related to nursing or health seminars/activities.

NPs:
Completion of 30 contact hours related to nursing or health seminars/activities.

LPNs:
Completion of 30 contact hours related to nursing or health seminars/activities.

RNs:
30 contact hours every renewal period. Only 20 contact hours may be earned through distance learning.

Three (3) hours of infection control that includes HIV, Hepatitis, and TB is also required.

NPs:
30 contact hours every renewal period. Three (3) hours of infection control that includes HIV, Hepatitis, and TB is also required.

Only 20 contact hours may be earned through distance learning. The remaining 10 contact hours can not be completed online.

LPNs:
21 contact hours every renewal period. Only 15 contact hours may be earned through distance learning.

Three (3) hours of infection control that includes HIV, Hepatitis, and TB is also required.

Directory of State
Nursing Boards

State:
ALABAMA

State Board Homepage:
Alabama Board of Nursing

Phone:
(334) 242-4060

State:
ALASKA

State Board Homepage:
Alaska Board of Nursing

Phone:
(907) 269-8160

State:
ARIZONA

State Board Homepage:
Arizona Board of Nursing

Phone:
(602) 771-7800

State:
ARKANSAS

Phone:
(501) 686-2700

State:
CALIFORNIA

Phone:
(916) 322-3350

State:
COLORADO

State Board Homepage:
Colorado Board of Nursing

Phone:
(303) 894-2430

State:
CONNECTICUT

State Board Homepage:
Connecticut Nursing Licensure

Phone:
(860) 509-7603

State:
DC

State Board Homepage:
DC Board of Nursing

Phone:
(202) 724-4900

State:
DELAWARE

State Board Homepage:
Delaware Board of Nursing

Phone:
(302) 744-4516

State:
FLORIDA

State Board Homepage:
Florida Board of Nursing

Phone:
(850) 488-0595

State:
GEORGIA

State Board Homepage:
Georgia Board of Nursing

Phone:
(478) 207-1300

State:
HAWAII

State Board Homepage:
Hawaii Board of Nursing

Phone:
(808) 586-2695

State:
IDAHO

State Board Homepage:
Idaho Board of Nursing

Phone:
(208) 334-3110

State:
ILLINOIS

State Board Homepage:
Illinois Center for Nursing

Phone:
(888) 687-7307

State:
INDIANA

State Board Homepage:
Indiana State Board of Nursing

Phone:
(317) 234-2043

State:
IOWA

State Board Homepage:
Iowa Board of Nursing

Phone:
(515) 281-3255

State:
KANSAS

State Board Homepage:
Kansas Board of Nursing

Phone:
(785) 296-4929

State:
KENTUCKY

State Board Homepage:
Kentucky Board of Nursing

Phone:
(502) 429-3300

State:
LOUISIANA

Phone:
(504) 838-5332

State:
MAINE

State Board Homepage:
Maine State Board of Nursing

Phone:
(207) 287-1133

State:
MARYLAND

State Board Homepage:
Maryland Board of Nursing

Phone:
(410) 585-1900

State:
MASSACHUSETTS

State Board Homepage:
Massachusetts Board of Nursing

Phone:
(617) 727-3074

State:
MICHIGAN

State Board Homepage:
Michigan Board of Nursing

Phone:
(517) 335-0918

State:
MINNESOTA

State Board Homepage:
Minnesota Board of Nursing

Phone:
(612) 617-2270

State:
MISSISSIPPI

State Board Homepage:
Mississippi Board of Nursing

Phone:
(601) 987-4188

State:
MISSOURI

Sate Board Homepage:
Missouri Board of Nursing

Phone:
(406) 841-2340

State:
MONTANA

State Board Homepage:
Montana Board of Nursing

Phone:
(406) 444-2071

State:
NEBRASKA

State Board Homepage:
Nebraska Board of Nursing

Phone:
(402) 471-4376

State:
NEVADA

State Board Homepage:
Nevada State Board of Nursing

Phone:
(702) 486-5800

State:
NEW HAMPSHIRE

State Board Homepage:
New Hampshire Board of Nursing

Phone:
(603) 271-2323

State:
NEW JERSEY

State Board Homepage:
New Jersey Board of Nursing

Phone:
(973) 504-6430

State:
NEW MEXICO

State Board Homepage:
New Mexico Board of Nursing

Phone:
(505) 841-8340

State:
NEW YORK

State Board Homepage:
New York Board of Nursing

Phone:
(518) 474-3817 Ext 390

State:
NORTH CAROLINA

State Board Homepage:
North Carolina Board of Nursing

Phone:
(919) 782-3211

State:
NORTH DAKOTA

State Board Homepage:
North Dakota Board of Nursing

Phone:
(701) 328-9778

State:
OHIO

State Board Homepage:
Ohio Board of Nursing

Phone:
(614) 466-3947

State:
OKLAHOMA

State Board Homepage:
Oklahoma Board of Nursing

Phone:
(405) 962-1800

State:
OREGON

State Board Homepage:
Oregon State Board of Nursing

Phone:
(971) 673-0685

State:
PENNSYLVANIA

Phone:
(717) 783-7142

State:
RHODE ISLAND

State Board Homepage:
Rhode Island Nursing Licensure

Phone:
(401) 222-5960

State:
SOUTH CAROLINA

State Board Homepage:
South Carolina Board of Nursing

Phone:
(803) 896-4550

State:
SOUTH DAKOTA

State Board Homepage:
South Dakota Board of Nursing

Phone:
(605) 362-2760

State:
TENNESSEE

State Board Homepage:
Tennessee Board of Nursing

Phone:
(615) 532-5166

State:
TEXAS

State Board Homepage:
Texas Board of Nursing

Phone:
(512) 305-7400

State:
UTAH

State Board Homepage:
Utah Nursing Licensure

Phone:
(801) 530-6628

State:
VERMONT

State Board Homepage:
Vermont Nursing Licensure

Phone:
(802) 828-2396

State:
VIRGINIA

State Board Homepage:
Virginia Board of Nursing

Phone:
(804) 662-9909

State:
WASHINGTON

State Board Homepage:
Washington Board of Nursing

Phone:
(360) 236-4700

State:
WEST VIRGINIA

State Board Homepage:
West Virginia Board of Nursing

Phone:
(304) 558-3596

State:
WISCONSIN

State Board Homepage:
Wisconsin Nursing Licensure

Phone:
(608) 266-2112

State:
WYOMING

State Board Homepage:
Wyoming State Board of Nursing

Phone:
(307) 777-7601

State:
GUAM

State Board Homepage:
Guam Nursing Licensure

Phone:

State:
PUERTO RICO

State Board Homepage:
Puerto Rico Nursing Licensure

Phone:
(215) 222-8454

Nursing CE Requirements by State

State
RNs
NPs
LPNs
24 contact hours every 2 years

24 contact hours including 6 in pharmacology.

24 contact hours every 2 years.

Every 2 years: 2 of the 3 are required for license renewal: 30 contact hours, OR 30 hours professional nursing activities, OR 320 hours nursing employment.

At least 30 contact hours of continuing education, including 15 contact hours of education in advanced pharmacology and clinical management of drug therapy.

If you hold a current DEA registration,
2 hours of education in pain management and opioid use and addiction in the two-year renewal period is required.

Every 2 years: two of the following three are required for license renewal: 30 contact hours, OR 30 hours professional nursing activities, OR 320 hours nursing employment.

No CE Required.

If less than 960 hrs of practice over the past 5 years, 45 hrs of education in advanced pharmacology and 45 hrs in subjects related to the APRN role are required.

APRNs who hold an active DEA license, MUST have completed a minimum of three hours of opioid-related, substance use disorder-related or addiction-related continuing education.

No CE Required.

15 contact hours every 2 years.

15 contact hours every 2 years. Licensees with prescriptive authority are required an additional 5 contact hours in pharmacotherapeutics related to specialty.

15 contact hours every 2 years.

30 contact hours every two years.

30 contact hours every two years. NPs with prescriptive authority must complete 3 contact hours on Schedule II controlled substances as part of the 30 hours. CNMs must complete 2 contact hours on Schedule II controlled substances including both risks of addiction and neonatal abstinence syndrome associated with opioids.

30 contact hours every two years.

No CE Required.

Beginning with license renewals on or after October 1, 2022, advanced practice nurses with opioid prescriptive authority are required 2 hours of substance use prevention training, every renewal period.

No CE Required.

Beginning with renewals after January 1, 2022, and every 6 years thereafter, 2 contact hours are required in screening for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, risk of suicide, depression and grief; and suicide prevention training.

50 hours of continuing education related to your area of practice every two years.

Beginning with renewals after January 1, 2022, and every 6 years thereafter, 2 contact hours are required in screening for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, risk of suicide, depression and grief; and suicide prevention training.

24 contact hours every 2 years, 3 of which must be in HIV/AIDS or Director's Topics* and 2 of which must be in LGBTQ or cultural awareness.

24 contact hours every 2 years 15 of which must be in pharmacology, 3 of which must be in HIV/AIDS or Director's Topics* and 2 of which must be in LGBTQ or cultural awareness.

18 contact hours every two years, 3 of which must be in HIV/AIDS or Director's Topics* and 2 of which must be in LGBTQ or cultural awareness.

30 contact hours every 2 years, 3 hours of which must be in substance abuse.

APRNs with prescriptive authority are required 2 hours in controlled substances prescribing practices, treatment of chronic pain, or related topics per the Uniform Controlled Substances Act.

24 contact hours every 2 years, 3 hours of which must be in substance abuse.

16 hours plus state mandates, including 2 hours for medical error prevention, 2 hours for nursing laws, 2 hours for human trafficking, 2 hours for workplace impairment, 1 hr for HIV/AIDS.

16 hours plus state mandates, including 2 hours for medical error prevention, 2 hours for nursing laws, 2 hours for human trafficking, 2 hours for workplace impairment, 1 hr for HIV/AIDS. APRNs authorized to prescribe controlled substances also need 3 hours in Safe and Effective Prescription of Controlled Substances every renewal.

16 hours plus state mandates, including 2 hours for medical error prevention, 2 hours for nursing laws, 2 hours for human trafficking, 2 hours for workplace impairment, 1 hr for HIV/AIDS.

30 contact hours of continuing education every two years.

30 contact hours of continuing education every two years.

20 hours every 2 years.

Every 2 years, 30 CEs or 9 other options.

30 hours of continuing education, of which at least 8 hours in pharmacology and 22 hours in your practice specialty every 2 years.

Every 2 years, 30 CEs or 9 other options - See State Board website.

15 contact hours of continuing education every 2 years.

30 contact hours every two years, 10 of which must be in pharmacology if the nurse has prescriptive authority.

15 contact hours of continuing education every two years.

20 contact hours every two years.

80 contact hours every 2 years. 50 hours must be in the area of practice, 20 hours in pharmacotherapeutics, and 10 hours must be in safe opioid prescribing. APRNs with Schedule II included in their Controlled Substances Registration must complete 3 hours annually in pharmacology.

20 contact hours every two years.

No CE Required.

APNs with prescriptive authority must obtain 30 contact hours, 8 of which must be in pharmacology every two years.

No CE Required.

36 contact hours every 3 years and mandatory Dependent Adult Abuse Mandatory Reporter Training and DS 169 Child Abuse Mandatory Reporter Training.

36 contact hours every 3 years and maintain current certification in specialty. ARNPs who regularly examine, attend, counsel or treat dependent adults or children must also complete 2 contact hours of training related to child/dependent adult abuse.ARNPs who prescribed opioids during the renewal cycle are required to complete 2 hours every three years regarding the CDC guidelines for prescribing opioids for chronic pain.

36 contact hours every 3 years. LPNs who regularly examine, attend, counsel or treat dependent adults or children must complete 2 contact hours of training related to child/dependent adult abuse.

30 contact hours every 2 years.

30 contact hours every 2 years.

30 contact hours every 2 years.

14 contact hours every year.

14 contact hours every year including 5 contact hours in pharmacology.

14 contact hours every year.

A minimum of 30 hours OR a minimum of 900 practice hours every two years.

Every year 30 hours at the advanced level and directly related to the full  scope of the advanced practice role and population focus for APRN whose role and population focus does not provide for  certification/recertification and 6 hours in pharmacotherapeutics for APRN with prescriptive authority.

No continuing education required at this time.

14 contact hours every year.

14 contact hours every year including 5 contact hours in pharmacology.

14 contact hours every year.

Complete one of the following for license renewal: 

1,000 hours of active nursing practice within the 5 previous years; or  

Board-approved nursing education program within the 5 previous years; or 

30 CEUs within the 2 years immediately preceding renewal.

No CE is required, but must maintain national certification.

Complete one of the following for license renewal:

1,000 hours of active nursing practice within the 5 previous years; or

Board-approved nursing education program within the 5 previous years; or

30 CEUs within the 2 years immediately preceding renewal.

15 contact hours every 2 years.

15 contact hours every 2 years and maintain current certification through a national certifying organization.

15 contact hours every 2 years.

25 contact hours every 2 years including 2 hours on pain and symptom management and 1 hour on human trafficking.  

25 contact hours every 2 years including 2 hours on pain and symptom management and one hour on human trafficking.

25 contact hours every 2 years including 2 hours on pain and symptom management and 1 hour on human trafficking.  

24 contact hours every 2 years.

24 contact hours every 2 years (for RN licensure) and maintain licensure as an APRN through a national certifying body.

12 contact hours every 2 years.

CE not required. 20 contact hours if out of practice for greater than five 5 years.

5 contact hours directly related to prescribing of controlled substances and maintain national certification.

No CE Required. 20 contact hours if out of practice for greater than five 5 years.

CE not required.

CE not required.

CE not required.

24 contact hours every 2 years.

24 hours of continuing education and 12 hours in the area of pharmacotherapeutics for APRN with prescriptive authority every two years.

24 contact hours every 2 years.

20 contact hours every 2 years

20 contact hours every two years (to maintain RN licensure). Licensees who prescribe controlled substances shall include at least 3 hours on prescribing opiates.

20 contact hours every two years.

30 hours every two years. including the state-required bioterrorism course. Beginning with renewals on or after January 1, 2022, all licensees are also required 2 hours relating to cultural competency and diversity, equity, and inclusion. These hours count toward the 30 hours.

45 contact hours every two years, 15 of which must be related to the area of practice and are required 2 hours of training in evidence-based suicide prevention and awareness. There is a one-time requirement of 4 contact hours in Bioterrorism.

Beginning with renewals on or after January 1, 2024, APRNs are required at least 2 hours related to substance use disorder every renewal.

30 contact hours every two years. including the state-required bioterrorism course. Beginning with renewals on or after January 1, 2022, all licensees are also required 2 hours relating to cultural competency and diversity, equity, and inclusion. These hours count toward the 30 hours.

30 contact hours every 2 years.

60 contact hours including 30 hours in specialty certification and, 30 hours to maintain RN licensure, and 5 hours of Pharmacology.

30 contact hours every 2 years.

30 contact hours every 2 years, including 1 hour on prescription opioid drugs, alternatives to opioids for managing and treating pain and the risks of opioid abuse, addiction, and diversion

30 contact hours every 2 years and 1 hour concerning prescription opioid drugs, including alternatives to opioids for managing and treating pain, and the risks and signs of opioid abuse, addiction, and diversion. The 30 hours for APN renewal must also include 2 hours related to end-of-life care. There is a one-time requirement of 1 contact hour of education on Organ and Tissue Donation and Recovery.  

30 contact hours every 2 years, including 1 hour on prescription opioid drugs, alternatives to opioids for managing and treating pain and the risks of opioid abuse, addiction, and diversion

30 contact hours every 2 years.

30 contact hours every two years plus 20 additional contact hours in the following: 5 hours in the scope of practice, 10 hours in pharmacology, and 5 hours in non-cancer pain management.

30 contact hours every two years.

Must complete course work or training in Infection Control at initial licensure and every four years thereafter. In addition, there is a one-time requirement of 2 hours in Child Abuse Identification and Reporting..

Must complete course work or training in Infection Control at initial licensure and every four years thereafter. In addition, there is a one-time requirement of 2 hours in Child Abuse Identification and Reporting.

Must complete course work or training in Infection Control at initial licensure and every four years thereafter.

One of the following every two years: national certification or recertification, 30 contact hours of continuing education, a board-approved refresher course, 2 semester hours of post-licensure education related to nursing practice, 15 CEU contact hours and completion of a nursing project, or 15 hours on CEU education and 640 hours of active practice within the previous two years. See website for further details.

One of the following every two years: national certification or recertification, 30 contact hours of continuing education, a board-approved refresher course, 2 semester hours of post-lecnsure education related to nursing practice, 15 CEU contact hours and completion of a nursing project, or 15 hours on CEU education and 640 hours of active practice within the previous two years.

APRN-NPs must also maintain national certification which requires 50 contact hours, and one hour in controlled substances.,

See website for further details.

One of the following every two years: national certification or recertification, 30 contact hours of continuing education, a board-approved refresher course, 2 semester hours of post-lecnsure education related to nursing practice, 15 CEU contact hours and completion of a nursing project, or 15 hours on CEU education and 640 hours of active practice within the previous two years. See website for further details.

12 contact hours every two years.

12 contact hours every two years. APRNs authorized to prescribe are required an additional 15 contact hours in pharmacology.

12 contact hours every two years.

24 contact hours every two years, 1 of which must be directly related to the laws and rules of the Ohio Nurse Practice Act..

24 hours of continuing education every two years for each APRN license held including at least 12 of the 24 contact hours must include CE in advanced pharmacology for APRN-CNP, APRN-CNS, or APRN-CNM.  

24 contact hours every two years, 1 of which must be directly related to the laws and rules of the Ohio Nurse Practice Act.

RNs are required one of the following every two years: verify 520 hours of employment a year, complete 24 hours of continuing education, verify or complete current certification in a nursing specialty area, or complete 6 academic semester credits hours of coursework.

Every two years 15 hours of continuing education in pharmacotherapeutics, clinical application, and use of pharmacological agents in the prevention of illness, and in the restoration and maintenance of health, for those with prescriptive authority including 2 hours of education in pain management or 2 hours of education in opioid use or addiction, unless the APRN does not currently hold a valid federal DEA registration number.

RNs are required one of the following every two years: verify 520 hours of employment a year, complete 24 hours of continuing education, verify or complete current certification in a nursing specialty area, or complete 6 academic semester credits hours of coursework.

2 hours of cultural competency education, a one-time requirement of 6 hours in pain management and/or treatment of the terminally ill and dying patients, plus an additional one-hour course specific to Oregon provided by the Pain Management Commission of the Department of Human Services.

Active certification required. APRN-NPs licensed prior to January 1, 2011, are required 45 contact hours of CE in population foci instead of national certification.

2 hours of cultural competency education, a one-time requirement of 6 hours in pain management and/or treatment of the terminally ill and dying patients, plus an additional one-hour course specific to Oregon provided by the Pain Management Commission of the Department of Human Services.

30 contact hours every two years, including 2 hours of approved child abuse recognition and reporting training.

Non-prescribing NPs are required 30 CE hours related to specialty every two years, including 2 hours of approved child abuse recognition and reporting training.

NPs with prescriptive or dispensing authority are required 30 hours related to specialty every two years, 16 of which must be in advanced pharmacology, including 2 hours of child abuse recognition and reporting training and a minimum of 2 hours in pain management, identification of addiction, or the practices of prescribing or dispensing opioids.

2 hours of approved child abuse recognition and reporting training every two years.*

10 contact hours every 2 years including 2 hours of substance abuse CE.

10 contact hours every 2 years including 2 hours of substance abuse CE. Licensees authorized to prescribe are required to submit evidence of 30 hours in pharmacology every 6 years.

10 contact hours every 2 years including 2 hours of substance abuse CE.

30 contact hours every 2 years. May also show proof of competence by maintenance of certification by a national certifying body, completion of an academic program, or employer certification.

30 contact hours every 2 years. A minimum of 20 of the required 30 contact hours to be in pharmacotherapeutics related to specialty, including 2 hours specific to prescribing controlled substances if authorized to prescribe controlled substances.  

30 contact hours every 2 years. May also show proof of competence by maintenance of certification by a national certifying body, completion of an academic program, or employer certification.

CE not required.

Required to maintain national certification. No CE Required.

No CE Required.

5 contact hours every year for practicing nurses. Must be accompanied by two documents verifying competence or 10 contact hours annually for those not practicing and one additional document verifying competence. See website for more details.

Every two years - 5 hours of continuing education (10 hours if not currently practicing) and 2 hours of continuing education to address controlled substance prescribing practices, including the Tennessee Chronic Pain Guidelines, for APRN with Certificate of Fitness.

5 contact hours for practicing nurses accompanied by two documents verifying competence or 10 contact hours for those not practicing and one additional document verifying competence. See website for more details.

20 contact hours every 2 years. Mandatory CE requirements including Forensic Evidence Collection for Nurses and Nursing Jurisprudence and Ethics for Texas Nurses.

20 contact hours every 2 years. APRNs with prescriptive authority must complete an additional 5 contact hours of pharmacotherapeutics every two years.

20 contact hours every 2 years. Several mandatory CE requirements such as Nursing Jurisprudence, Ethics, Geriatric Care, and Forensic Collection.

One of the following every 2 years: 30 contact hours, OR 200 practice hours and 15 contact hours, OR 400 practice hours.

APRNs are required the following every two years: Must maintain national certification, and be currently certified in specialty area, or complete 30 hours of CE (if licensed prior to 7/1/92) and 400 hours of practice each year.

One of the following every 2 years: 30 contact hours, OR 200 practice hours and 15 contact hours, OR 400 practice hours.

No CE Required.

Required to maintain national certification. APRNs who prescribe or dispense controlled substances must complete 2 hours on controlled substances every two years..

No CE Required.

15 contact hours of continuing education and 640 hours of active practice within the previous two 2 years, or one of nine other options. See website for more details.

APRNs are required to maintain national certification, or 40 contact hours in specialty areas approved by certifying agency every two years. Licensees authorized to prescribe are required an additional 8 hours in pharmacology.

15 contact hours of continuing education and 640 hours of active practice within the previous two 2 years, or one of nine other options. See website for more details.

8 contact hours every year. There is a one-time requirement of 6 hours of suicide prevention training at initial licensure.

Every two years - 30 hours of continuing education in specialty area and 15 hours of continuing education in pharmacology for ARNP with prescriptive authority.

8 contact hours every year. There is a one-time requirement of 6 hours of suicide prevention training at initial licensure.

12 contact hours every year. Must include best prescribing and drug diversion training if licensee prescribes, administers, or dispenses controlled substances. Also mandatory training for mental health conditions common to veterans and their families.

24 hours every two years with 12 hours in pharmacotherapeutics and 12 hours in the clinical management of patients. 12 of these hours may count toward CE requirement for RN license.

24 contact hours every two years, 3 of which must be in chemical dependence/substance abuse disorders and 2 must be related to mental health conditions common to veterans and family members of veterans.

CE not required.

Every two years - 16 hours of continuing education in clinical pharmacology or therapeutics relevant to the advanced practice nurse prescriber's area of practice, including at least 2 contact hours in responsible prescribing of controlled substances.

CE not required.

One of the following every two years: 
 
400 hours of active nursing practice, or 

200 hours of active nursing practice, and 15 hours of continuing education, or  

if less than 200 hours of active nursing practice, 30 hours of continuing education..

One of the following: Current National Certification OR 60 contact hours every 2 years AND 400 hours of employment as an APRN in specialty of advanced practice Prescriptive Authority: 5 contact hours every 2 years in pharmacology, pharmacotherapeutics, or drug therapy.

One of the following every two years:
 
400 hours of active nursing practice, or

200 hours of active nursing practice, and 15 hours of continuing education, or  

if less than 200 hours of active nursing practice, 30 hours of continuing education.

Completion of 30 contact hours related to nursing or health seminars/activities.

Completion of 30 contact hours related to nursing or health seminars/activities.

Completion of 30 contact hours related to nursing or health seminars/activities.

30 contact hours every renewal period. Only 20 contact hours may be earned through distance learning.

Three (3) hours of infection control that includes HIV, Hepatitis, and TB is also required.

30 contact hours every renewal period. Three (3) hours of infection control that includes HIV, Hepatitis, and TB is also required

Only 20 contact hours may be earned through distance learning. The remaining 10 contact hours can not be completed online

21 contact hours every renewal period. Only 15 contact hours may be earned through distance learning.

Three (3) hours of infection control that includes HIV, Hepatitis, and TB is also required. 

Directory of State Nursing Boards

State

State Board Homepage

Phone

ALABAMA

(334) 242-4060

ALASKA

(907) 269-8160

ARIZONA

(602) 771-7800

COLORADO

(303) 894-2430

CONNECTICUT

(860) 509-7603

DC

(202) 724-4900

DELAWARE

(302) 744-4516

FLORIDA

(850) 488-0595

GEORGIA

(478) 207-1300

HAWAII

(808) 586-2695

IDAHO

(208) 334-3110

ILLINOIS

(888) 687-7307

INDIANA

(317) 234-2043

IOWA

(515) 281-3255

KANSAS

(785) 296-4929

KENTUCKY

(502) 429-3300

LOUISIANA

(504) 838-5332

MAINE

(207) 287-1133

MARYLAND

(410) 585-1900

MASSACHUSETTS

(617) 727-3074

MICHIGAN

(517) 335-0918

MINNESOTA

(612) 617-2270

MISSISSIPPI

(601) 987-4188

MISSOURI

(406) 841-2340

MONTANA

(406) 444-2071

NEBRASKA

(402) 471-4376

NEVADA

(702) 486-5800

NEW HAMPSHIRE

(603) 271-2323

NEW JERSEY

(973) 504-6430

NEW MEXICO

(505) 841-8340

NEW YORK

(518) 474-3817 Ext 390

NORTH CAROLINA

(919) 782-3211

NORTH DAKOTA

(701) 328-9778

OHIO

(614) 466-3947

OKLAHOMA

(405) 962-1800

OREGON

(971) 673-0685

PENNSYLVANIA

(717) 783-7142

RHODE ISLAND

(401) 222-5960

SOUTH CAROLINA

(803) 896-4550

SOUTH DAKOTA

(605) 362-2760

TENNESSEE

(615) 532-5166

TEXAS

(512) 305-7400

UTAH

(801) 530-6628

VERMONT

(802) 828-2396

VIRGINIA

(804) 662-9909

WASHINGTON

(360) 236-4700

WEST VIRGINIA

(304) 558-3596

WISCONSIN

(608) 266-2112

WYOMING

(307) 777-7601

PUERTO RICO

(215) 222-8454

Frequently Asked Questions

CE = continuing education
CEU = continuing education unit
CME = continuing medical education
CNE = continuing nursing education

Whew! Similar terms, slightly different meanings. CE is the broad term for continuing education for healthcare professionals. A CEU is typically a specified number of CE hours. For instance 10 CE hours = 1 CEU. Read your state's requirements for this. CNE is specific to nursing, but CME can be used by advanced practice nurses if the AANP or ANCC accepts the accrediting body (this is usually found in the fine print of the course). 

Maybe and yes! As a nurse, the need for CE is dependent on your state licensure requirements as well as any specialty certifications that you hold. As an advanced practice nurse, the CE that you need is dependent on your state licensure (both RN and NP) AND your national certification renewal requirements (AANP, ANCC, etc). 

There are many options for continuing education for nurses. Some employers offer CE for completing educational activities. If your employer does not provide CE, you can utilize online or in-person courses, virtual, on-demand, or in-person conferences, and even certain cruises! The important thing is to pay attention to what your state accepts for CE content and who is an acceptable CE provider according to your state.

MedAlign Innovative Solutions is a certified continuing education provider by the Kansas State Board of Nursing. Our CE is accepted by most state boards of nursing as a state-certified CE provider. There are a handful of states that do not accept state-certified CE. 

That depends. Some employers provide CE for their employees or offer reimbursement for CE opportunities. There are also free CE courses available. Remember that CE is an investment in your career as a professional! 

There are DIY ways to track your CE credits. You can track them yourself or sometimes through your employer. Stay tuned because we are creating an awesome easy-button tool to help nurses track CE - coming soon! If you would like to get early access and help develop this product, email us at [email protected]

Typically CE credits are self-reported upon renewal of licensure or certification. It is important to keep certificates of completion for your records even if your state or certifying body doesn't require submission of these documents. 

Disclaimer: Please note that CE requirements are subject to change without notice. Please visit
your state board of nursing’s website for the most current information on license renewal. We strive to keep this page updated, but if you notice a discrepancy, please notify us by emailing [email protected]. Thank you!