{"id":4723,"date":"2026-02-28T21:22:25","date_gmt":"2026-02-28T21:22:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/?p=4723"},"modified":"2026-03-20T21:11:39","modified_gmt":"2026-03-20T21:11:39","slug":"how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Keep Your Nursing License Active When Not Working"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    {\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How long does an RN license stay active?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"RN licenses are typically issued for two-year periods. Renewal requires meeting your state board's CE and practice hour requirements. California requires 30 contact hours per cycle, Massachusetts 15, and Washington State 8.\"}},\n    {\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What does an inactive nursing license mean?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"An inactive license means you've paid the renewal fee but haven't completed required CE hours. You cannot practice with an inactive license. A lapsed or expired license means you've missed the renewal deadline entirely and reinstatement is required.\"}},\n    {\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What happens if your nursing license lapses?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"A lapsed license means you cannot practice nursing until reinstated. Reinstatement requires completing outstanding CE hours, submitting documentation, paying a reinstatement fee, and in some cases undergoing additional review. In California, if expired over 8 years, you may need to retake the NCLEX.\"}},\n    {\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How do you reactivate an inactive nursing license?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Steps include: verify license status via your state board or Nursys, complete outstanding CE hours, submit a reinstatement application, pay the reinstatement fee, and wait for processing (a few days to several weeks depending on state).\"}},\n    {\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Does a compact nurse license stay active during a break?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes, your compact license stays active as long as you continue meeting your home state's renewal requirements including CE hours. The NLC has no separate renewal process \u2014 your multistate license is maintained through your home state board.\"}}\n  ]\n}\n<\/script><\/p>\n<p><!-- INTRO --><\/p>\n<p>Every year, nurses step away from the bedside for all kinds of legitimate reasons \u2014 parental leave, a medical situation, caregiver responsibilities, or simply a much-needed pause after years of demanding work.<\/p>\n<p>What often gets overlooked during that time is <strong>license maintenance<\/strong>. A lapsed or inactive license can turn a planned six-month break into a months-long administrative headache before you&#8217;re cleared to work again.<\/p>\n<p>In this guide, you&#8217;ll learn exactly how to keep your nursing license active when you&#8217;re not working: what the requirements are, what inactivity consequences look like, and how to set yourself up for a smooth return.<\/p>\n<p><!-- WARNING CALLOUT --><\/p>\n<div style=\"background:#fff8f0;border-left:4px solid #fa8340;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;padding:14px 18px;margin:20px 0;\">\n<strong style=\"color:#b85000;font-size:14px;\">&#9888; Don&#8217;t let this catch you off guard<\/strong><br \/>\n<span style=\"color:#c05800;font-size:14px;\">Renewal deadlines don&#8217;t pause when you stop working. Missing them while on leave is one of the most common \u2014 and most preventable \u2014 career setbacks nurses face.<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- SECTION 1: LICENSE DURATIONS --><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_62 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#How_Long_Does_a_Nursing_License_Stay_Active\" title=\"How Long Does a Nursing License Stay Active?\">How Long Does a Nursing License Stay Active?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#What_Does_an_Inactive_Nursing_License_Actually_Mean\" title=\"What Does an Inactive Nursing License Actually Mean?\">What Does an Inactive Nursing License Actually Mean?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#Inactive_vs_Lapsed_vs_Expired_%E2%80%94_Whats_the_Difference\" title=\"Inactive vs. Lapsed vs. Expired \u2014 What&#8217;s the Difference?\">Inactive vs. Lapsed vs. Expired \u2014 What&#8217;s the Difference?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#What_Happens_If_Your_License_Lapses\" title=\"What Happens If Your License Lapses?\">What Happens If Your License Lapses?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#How_to_Meet_Continuing_Education_Requirements_While_Not_Working\" title=\"How to Meet Continuing Education Requirements While Not Working\">How to Meet Continuing Education Requirements While Not Working<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#What_Counts_as_an_Approved_CE_Course\" title=\"What Counts as an Approved CE Course?\">What Counts as an Approved CE Course?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#How_Many_CE_Hours_Do_You_Need\" title=\"How Many CE Hours Do You Need?\">How Many CE Hours Do You Need?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#Online_CE_Options_for_Nurses_on_Leave\" title=\"Online CE Options for Nurses on Leave\">Online CE Options for Nurses on Leave<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#How_Do_You_Reactivate_an_Inactive_Nursing_License\" title=\"How Do You Reactivate an Inactive Nursing License?\">How Do You Reactivate an Inactive Nursing License?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#Steps_to_Reinstate_Your_License\" title=\"Steps to Reinstate Your License\">Steps to Reinstate Your License<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#How_Long_Does_Reactivation_Take\" title=\"How Long Does Reactivation Take?\">How Long Does Reactivation Take?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#The_Nurse_Licensure_Compact_and_Time_Off\" title=\"The Nurse Licensure Compact and Time Off\">The Nurse Licensure Compact and Time Off<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#Does_the_Compact_License_Stay_Active_During_a_Break\" title=\"Does the Compact License Stay Active During a Break?\">Does the Compact License Stay Active During a Break?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#Moving_States_While_on_Leave\" title=\"Moving States While on Leave\">Moving States While on Leave<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-keep-your-nursing-license-active-when-not-working\/#What_to_Do_When_Youre_Ready_to_Return\" title=\"What to Do When You&#8217;re Ready to Return\">What to Do When You&#8217;re Ready to Return<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Long_Does_a_Nursing_License_Stay_Active\"><\/span>How Long Does a Nursing License Stay Active?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Nursing licenses don&#8217;t last forever \u2014 and each license type has its own renewal timeline. Understanding your specific expiration date is the first step to staying compliant during a break.<\/p>\n<details style=\"border:1px solid #e8e8e8;border-radius:8px;margin-bottom:10px;overflow:hidden;\">\n<summary style=\"padding:16px 20px;font-weight:600;font-size:15px;cursor:pointer;background:#fafafa;list-style:none;display:flex;align-items:center;gap:12px;\">CNA Certification \u2014 how long is it valid? <span style=\"font-size:20px;color:#fa8340;margin-right:0;\">+<\/span><\/summary>\n<div style=\"padding:16px 20px;border-top:1px solid #e8e8e8;\">\n<p>CNA certification is typically valid for <strong>two years<\/strong> in most states. Renewal requires completing continuing education (CE) hours \u2014 usually 12 to 24 \u2014 plus a renewal application and fee.<\/p>\n<p>CE requirements don&#8217;t disappear during a break. Completing those hours online is straightforward and keeps your certification current without needing to be actively employed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<details style=\"border:1px solid #e8e8e8;border-radius:8px;margin-bottom:10px;overflow:hidden;\">\n<summary style=\"padding:16px 20px;font-weight:600;font-size:15px;cursor:pointer;background:#fafafa;list-style:none;display:flex;align-items:center;gap:12px;\">LPN License \u2014 how long is it valid? <span style=\"font-size:20px;color:#fa8340;margin-right:0;\">+<\/span><\/summary>\n<div style=\"padding:16px 20px;border-top:1px solid #e8e8e8;\">\n<p>LPN licenses are generally valid for <strong>two years<\/strong>. Renewal involves meeting your state&#8217;s CE requirements and practice hour minimums, plus a renewal fee.<\/p>\n<div style=\"background:#fff8f0;border-left:4px solid #fa8340;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;padding:10px 14px;margin-top:10px;\">\n<strong style=\"color:#b85000;\">Watch out:<\/strong> <span style=\"color:#c05800;\">Some states have different rules for LPN licenses vs. LPN certifications \u2014 their expiration dates may not align. Check both carefully.<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<details style=\"border:1px solid #e8e8e8;border-radius:8px;margin-bottom:10px;overflow:hidden;\">\n<summary style=\"padding:16px 20px;font-weight:600;font-size:15px;cursor:pointer;background:#fafafa;list-style:none;display:flex;align-items:center;gap:12px;\">RN License \u2014 how long is it valid? <span style=\"font-size:20px;color:#fa8340;margin-right:0;\">+<\/span><\/summary>\n<div style=\"padding:16px 20px;border-top:1px solid #e8e8e8;\">\n<p>RN licenses are typically issued for <strong>two-year periods<\/strong>. CE minimums vary considerably by state:<\/p>\n<table style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:collapse;font-size:14px;margin-top:8px;\">\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background:#f7c152;\">\n<th style=\"padding:8px 12px;text-align:left;color:#3d2800;border-radius:4px 0 0 0;\">State<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding:8px 12px;text-align:left;color:#3d2800;\">CE Hours Required<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding:8px 12px;text-align:left;color:#3d2800;border-radius:0 4px 0 0;\">Cycle<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"background:#fff;border-bottom:1px solid #eee;\">\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;\">California<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;font-weight:600;\">30 hours<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;\">2 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#fafafa;border-bottom:1px solid #eee;\">\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;\">Massachusetts<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;font-weight:600;\">15 hours<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;\">2 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#fff;border-bottom:1px solid #eee;\">\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;\">North Carolina<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;font-weight:600;\">15 hours + 640 practice hrs<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;\">2 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#fafafa;border-bottom:1px solid #eee;\">\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;\">Nevada<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;font-weight:600;\">30 hours<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;\">2 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#fff;\">\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;\">Washington State<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;font-weight:600;\">8 hours (incl. 2 health equity)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:8px 12px;\">2 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<div style=\"background:#e8f8fb;border-left:4px solid #23b0cf;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;padding:10px 14px;margin-top:12px;\">\n<strong style=\"color:#1a5f6e;\">State-specific guide:<\/strong> <span style=\"color:#1a6e7a;\">For a full breakdown by state, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/rn-state-license-guide\/\">Wanderly&#8217;s RN State License Guide<\/a> is a useful starting point.<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<details style=\"border:1px solid #e8e8e8;border-radius:8px;margin-bottom:10px;overflow:hidden;\">\n<summary style=\"padding:16px 20px;font-weight:600;font-size:15px;cursor:pointer;background:#fafafa;list-style:none;display:flex;align-items:center;gap:12px;\">NP \/ APRN License \u2014 how long is it valid? <span style=\"font-size:20px;color:#fa8340;margin-right:0;\">+<\/span><\/summary>\n<div style=\"padding:16px 20px;border-top:1px solid #e8e8e8;\">\n<p>NP and APRN licenses follow <strong>two-year renewal cycles<\/strong> in most states, but CE requirements are significantly higher than for RNs.<\/p>\n<p>In Illinois, for example, APRNs must complete <strong>80 hours of CE<\/strong> per renewal period, compared to 20 for RNs.<\/p>\n<div style=\"background:#fff8f0;border-left:4px solid #fa8340;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;padding:10px 14px;margin-top:10px;\">\n<strong style=\"color:#b85000;\">Two-layer requirement:<\/strong> <span style=\"color:#c05800;\">NP certifications through national credentialing bodies carry their own renewal requirements separate from your state license. Both must stay current.<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<details style=\"border:1px solid #e8e8e8;border-radius:8px;margin-bottom:10px;overflow:hidden;\">\n<summary style=\"padding:16px 20px;font-weight:600;font-size:15px;cursor:pointer;background:#fafafa;list-style:none;display:flex;align-items:center;gap:12px;\">Travel Nurses &amp; the Compact License <span style=\"font-size:20px;color:#fa8340;margin-right:0;\">+<\/span><\/summary>\n<div style=\"padding:16px 20px;border-top:1px solid #e8e8e8;\">\n<p>If you hold a compact license under the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), your renewal requirements are tied to your <strong>home state<\/strong> \u2014 where you claim primary residence.<\/p>\n<p>As of 2025, 43 jurisdictions are part of the NLC, meaning one multistate license covers practice across all of them. Taking a break doesn&#8217;t pause that clock.<\/p>\n<div style=\"background:#e8f8fb;border-left:4px solid #23b0cf;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;padding:10px 14px;margin-top:10px;\">\n<strong style=\"color:#1a5f6e;\">Learn more:<\/strong> <span style=\"color:#1a6e7a;\">See our guide on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/how-to-become-a-travel-nurse\/\">how to become a travel nurse<\/a> for more on how the compact works with travel assignments.<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n<p><!-- SECTION 2: INACTIVE vs LAPSED --><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_an_Inactive_Nursing_License_Actually_Mean\"><\/span>What Does an Inactive Nursing License Actually Mean?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Inactive_vs_Lapsed_vs_Expired_%E2%80%94_Whats_the_Difference\"><\/span>Inactive vs. Lapsed vs. Expired \u2014 What&#8217;s the Difference?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>These terms are often used interchangeably, but they mean different things depending on your state board:<\/p>\n<div style=\"display:flex;gap:12px;flex-wrap:wrap;margin:16px 0;\">\n<div style=\"flex:1;min-width:200px;background:#fff8f0;border:1.5px solid #fa8340;border-radius:8px;padding:14px 16px;\">\n<strong style=\"color:#b85000;font-size:13px;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:.04em;\">Inactive<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size:14px;color:#555;margin:6px 0 0;\">You&#8217;ve paid your renewal fee but haven&#8217;t completed required CE hours. In California, this avoids a delinquency fee \u2014 but <strong>you cannot practice<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"flex:1;min-width:200px;background:#fef9ec;border:1.5px solid #f7c152;border-radius:8px;padding:14px 16px;\">\n<strong style=\"color:#7a5500;font-size:13px;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:.04em;\">Lapsed \/ Expired<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size:14px;color:#555;margin:6px 0 0;\">You&#8217;ve missed the renewal deadline entirely \u2014 fee unpaid or required steps not completed. Reinstatement is more involved and typically more costly.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- LAPSE WARNING --><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Happens_If_Your_License_Lapses\"><\/span>What Happens If Your License Lapses?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A lapsed license means you <strong>cannot practice nursing<\/strong> until it&#8217;s reinstated \u2014 and reinstatement isn&#8217;t always quick. Most state boards require:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Completing outstanding CE hours<\/li>\n<li>Submitting documentation<\/li>\n<li>Paying a reinstatement fee (higher than standard renewal)<\/li>\n<li>In some cases, undergoing additional review or background check<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"background:#ffeae0;border-left:4px solid #d85a30;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;padding:14px 18px;margin:16px 0;\">\n<strong style=\"color:#7a2800;\">California-specific rule:<\/strong> <span style=\"color:#903000;\">If your license has been expired for more than <strong>8 years<\/strong>, you may be required to retake the NCLEX or provide proof of active licensure in another state.<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"background:#e8f8fb;border-left:4px solid #23b0cf;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;padding:12px 16px;margin:16px 0;\">\n<strong style=\"color:#1a5f6e;\">The bottom line:<\/strong> <span style=\"color:#1a6e7a;\">Staying current while not working is far less effort than reinstating after a lapse.<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- SECTION 3: CE REQUIREMENTS --><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Meet_Continuing_Education_Requirements_While_Not_Working\"><\/span>How to Meet Continuing Education Requirements While Not Working<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Counts_as_an_Approved_CE_Course\"><\/span>What Counts as an Approved CE Course?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Most boards accept CE courses related to clinical practice, pharmacology, patient safety, health equity, and nursing specialties. Note that <strong>employer in-services typically do not count<\/strong> \u2014 only accredited, board-recognized courses qualify.<\/p>\n<div style=\"background:#fff8f0;border-left:4px solid #fa8340;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;padding:12px 16px;margin:16px 0;\">\n<strong style=\"color:#b85000;\">Recent additions to watch:<\/strong> <span style=\"color:#c05800;\">Washington State now requires 2 hours of health equity CE per cycle. Nevada requires 4 hours of cultural competency training per renewal period starting 2024. Always verify with your specific state board before selecting courses.<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Many_CE_Hours_Do_You_Need\"><\/span>How Many CE Hours Do You Need?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<table style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:collapse;font-size:14px;margin:12px 0;\">\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background:#f7c152;\">\n<th style=\"padding:10px 12px;text-align:left;color:#3d2800;\">State<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding:10px 12px;text-align:left;color:#3d2800;\">License Type<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding:10px 12px;text-align:left;color:#3d2800;\">CE Hours<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding:10px 12px;text-align:left;color:#3d2800;\">Notes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"background:#fff;border-bottom:1px solid #eee;\">\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">California<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">RN<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;font-weight:600;\">30 hrs<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">Every 2 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#fafafa;border-bottom:1px solid #eee;\">\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">Massachusetts<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">RN<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;font-weight:600;\">15 hrs<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">Per 2-year cycle<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#fff;border-bottom:1px solid #eee;\">\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">North Carolina<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">RN<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;font-weight:600;\">15 hrs<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">+ 640 practice hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#fafafa;border-bottom:1px solid #eee;\">\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">Nevada<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">RN \/ LPN<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;font-weight:600;\">30 hrs<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">Per cycle<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#fff;\">\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">Washington State<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">RN \/ LPN<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;font-weight:600;\">8 hrs<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 12px;\">Incl. 2 hrs health equity<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Online_CE_Options_for_Nurses_on_Leave\"><\/span>Online CE Options for Nurses on Leave<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Most state boards accept online CE. Look for providers approved by the <strong>American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)<\/strong> or specifically recognized by your state board.<\/p>\n<div style=\"background:#e8f8fb;border-left:4px solid #23b0cf;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;padding:12px 16px;margin:16px 0;\">\n<strong style=\"color:#1a5f6e;\">Pro tip:<\/strong> <span style=\"color:#1a6e7a;\">Complete your CE hours early \u2014 don&#8217;t wait until your renewal deadline is near. It removes one more thing from your plate when you&#8217;re ready to return.<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- SECTION 4: REACTIVATION STEPS --><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Do_You_Reactivate_an_Inactive_Nursing_License\"><\/span>How Do You Reactivate an Inactive Nursing License?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Steps_to_Reinstate_Your_License\"><\/span>Steps to Reinstate Your License<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<table style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:separate;border-spacing:0 10px;margin:16px 0;\">\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width:48px;vertical-align:top;padding:14px 0 14px 16px;background:#fafafa;border:1px solid #eee;border-right:none;border-radius:8px 0 0 8px;\">\n<div style=\"width:32px;height:32px;background:#fa8340;border-radius:50%;text-align:center;line-height:32px;font-weight:700;color:#fff;font-size:14px;\">1<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"vertical-align:top;padding:14px 16px 14px 12px;background:#fafafa;border:1px solid #eee;border-left:none;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;\"><strong>Verify your license status<\/strong><br \/><span style=\"font-size:14px;color:#555;\">Check your state board&#8217;s online portal or use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nursys.com\">Nursys<\/a>, the national license verification system.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width:48px;vertical-align:top;padding:14px 0 14px 16px;background:#fafafa;border:1px solid #eee;border-right:none;border-radius:8px 0 0 8px;\">\n<div style=\"width:32px;height:32px;background:#fa8340;border-radius:50%;text-align:center;line-height:32px;font-weight:700;color:#fff;font-size:14px;\">2<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"vertical-align:top;padding:14px 16px 14px 12px;background:#fafafa;border:1px solid #eee;border-left:none;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;\"><strong>Complete outstanding CE hours<\/strong><br \/><span style=\"font-size:14px;color:#555;\">Finish any CE hours required by your state for the current renewal period.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width:48px;vertical-align:top;padding:14px 0 14px 16px;background:#fafafa;border:1px solid #eee;border-right:none;border-radius:8px 0 0 8px;\">\n<div style=\"width:32px;height:32px;background:#fa8340;border-radius:50%;text-align:center;line-height:32px;font-weight:700;color:#fff;font-size:14px;\">3<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"vertical-align:top;padding:14px 16px 14px 12px;background:#fafafa;border:1px solid #eee;border-left:none;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;\"><strong>Submit your reinstatement application<\/strong><br \/><span style=\"font-size:14px;color:#555;\">File with your state board along with any required documentation.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width:48px;vertical-align:top;padding:14px 0 14px 16px;background:#fafafa;border:1px solid #eee;border-right:none;border-radius:8px 0 0 8px;\">\n<div style=\"width:32px;height:32px;background:#fa8340;border-radius:50%;text-align:center;line-height:32px;font-weight:700;color:#fff;font-size:14px;\">4<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"vertical-align:top;padding:14px 16px 14px 12px;background:#fafafa;border:1px solid #eee;border-left:none;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;\"><strong>Pay the reinstatement fee<\/strong><br \/><span style=\"font-size:14px;color:#555;\">Typically higher than a standard renewal fee.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width:48px;vertical-align:top;padding:14px 0 14px 16px;background:#fafafa;border:1px solid #eee;border-right:none;border-radius:8px 0 0 8px;\">\n<div style=\"width:32px;height:32px;background:#fa8340;border-radius:50%;text-align:center;line-height:32px;font-weight:700;color:#fff;font-size:14px;\">5<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"vertical-align:top;padding:14px 16px 14px 12px;background:#fafafa;border:1px solid #eee;border-left:none;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;\"><strong>Wait for processing<\/strong><br \/><span style=\"font-size:14px;color:#555;\">A few days to several weeks depending on your state. Some states also require fingerprinting or a background check if significant time has passed.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Long_Does_Reactivation_Take\"><\/span>How Long Does Reactivation Take?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Processing times vary by state board. Some states process reinstatements within a week; others take four to eight weeks or longer during busy renewal periods.<\/p>\n<div style=\"background:#fff8f0;border-left:4px solid #fa8340;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;padding:12px 16px;margin:16px 0;\">\n<strong style=\"color:#b85000;\">Plan ahead:<\/strong> <span style=\"color:#c05800;\">If you have a return-to-work date in mind, begin the reinstatement steps well in advance and factor in processing time.<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- SECTION 5: COMPACT + TRAVEL NURSES --><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Nurse_Licensure_Compact_and_Time_Off\"><\/span>The Nurse Licensure Compact and Time Off<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_the_Compact_License_Stay_Active_During_a_Break\"><\/span>Does the Compact License Stay Active During a Break?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Yes \u2014 your compact license stays active as long as you continue meeting your <strong>home state&#8217;s renewal requirements<\/strong> including CE hours and any applicable practice hour minimums. The NLC has no separate renewal process.<\/p>\n<div style=\"background:#e8f8fb;border-left:4px solid #23b0cf;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;padding:12px 16px;margin:16px 0;\">\n<strong style=\"color:#1a5f6e;\">Why this matters for travel nurses:<\/strong> <span style=\"color:#1a6e7a;\">A valid compact license when you return means you can accept assignments across 40+ states immediately \u2014 a significant advantage in a competitive market.<\/span>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Moving_States_While_on_Leave\"><\/span>Moving States While on Leave<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If you move to a new compact state while on leave, you&#8217;ll need to apply for a license in your new home state <strong>within 60 days<\/strong>. Your previous state license will be deactivated once the new one is issued.<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re moving to a <strong>non-compact state<\/strong> (like California or New York), you&#8217;ll need to apply for a single-state license there. Factor this into your timeline, especially if you plan to return to travel nursing.<\/p>\n<p><!-- SECTION 6: RETURNING TO WORK --><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_Do_When_Youre_Ready_to_Return\"><\/span>What to Do When You&#8217;re Ready to Return<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Keeping your license active during a break is the single most important thing you can do to protect your career. These additional steps make the transition back smoother:<\/p>\n<div style=\"background:#fafafa;border:1.5px solid #e8e8e8;border-radius:8px;padding:16px 20px;margin:16px 0;\">\n<ul style=\"margin:0;padding-left:20px;line-height:2;\">\n<li><strong>Track your expiration date<\/strong> \u2014 set a calendar reminder at least <strong>90 days before renewal<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Document your CE completions<\/strong> \u2014 keep certificates for at least 4 years (state boards conduct random audits)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Build a professional portfolio<\/strong> \u2014 capture your CE history, certifications, and practice hours; especially useful for travel nursing where documentation matters<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- CLOSING CTA --><\/p>\n<div style=\"background:#faf4e2;border-radius:10px;padding:28px 32px;margin-top:32px;text-align:center;border:1.5px solid #e8ddb8;\">\n<p style=\"color:#b8860b;font-size:12px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:.1em;text-transform:uppercase;margin:0 0 10px;\">Wanderly<\/p>\n<p style=\"color:#1a1208;font-size:20px;font-weight:700;margin:0 0 10px;line-height:1.35;\">Ready to find your next travel nurse assignment?<\/p>\n<p style=\"color:#5a4a2a;font-size:15px;margin:0 0 22px;line-height:1.6;\">Compare pay packages from top agencies side by side \u2014 transparent rates, no negotiating blind.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/nurse\/jobs\/search\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#fa8340;color:#ffffff;font-weight:700;padding:13px 32px;border-radius:6px;text-decoration:none;font-size:15px;letter-spacing:.01em;\">Browse Travel Nurse Jobs &#8594;<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<!-- AddThis Advanced Settings generic via filter on the_content --><!-- AddThis Share Buttons generic via filter on the_content -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Every year, nurses step away from the bedside for all kinds of legitimate reasons \u2014 parental leave, a medical situation, caregiver responsibilities, or simply a much-needed pause after years of demanding work. What often gets overlooked during that time is license maintenance. A lapsed or inactive license can turn a planned six-month break into a [&hellip;]<!-- AddThis Advanced Settings generic via filter on get_the_excerpt --><!-- AddThis Share Buttons generic via filter on get_the_excerpt --><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":{"author_name":"Kelley","author_description":"","author_user_level":10,"author_avatar":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/fe55d4feb1c4e681b976a3b0f3c15157?s=96&r=g"},"featured_media":4725,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":true,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_mi_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_is_tweetstorm":false,"jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","enabled":false}}},"categories":[520],"tags":[63,118,162,445,104,62,111,57,71],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IDR-Feature-1.png","author_info":{"display_name":"Kelley","author_link":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/author\/manshu\/"},"featured_image":{"size_thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IDR-Feature-1-150x150.png","size_medium":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IDR-Feature-1-300x300.png","size_large":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IDR-Feature-1.png","size_full":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IDR-Feature-1.png"},"loftocean-view-count":["1875"],"category":[{"id":520,"slug":"nurse-licensing","name":"Licensing"}],"post_tag":[{"id":63,"slug":"nurse","name":"Nurse"},{"id":118,"slug":"nursing","name":"nursing"},{"id":162,"slug":"nursing-license","name":"nursing license"},{"id":445,"slug":"nursing-licenses","name":"nursing licenses"},{"id":104,"slug":"travel","name":"travel"},{"id":62,"slug":"travel-nurse","name":"Travel nurse"},{"id":111,"slug":"travel-nursing","name":"travel nursing"},{"id":57,"slug":"wanderly","name":"wanderly"},{"id":71,"slug":"wanderly-nurse","name":"wanderly nurse"}],"views":40602,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IDR-Feature-1.png","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p92mSz-1eb","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4723"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/16637"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4723"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4723\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7610,"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4723\/revisions\/7610"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4725"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4723"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4723"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wanderly.us\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4723"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}