How Do I Keep My Nursing License Active When Not Working in Arizona? | Nurse License Renewal
Registered Nurse (RN) and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) renewal of licensure is required every four years.
However, Arizona is a Nurse License Compact State. If your Primary State of Residency is in another Compact State, you should only apply for licensure in Arizona if you declare Arizona as your Primary State of Residency.
The Primary State of Residency is where you vote, pay taxes and hold a driver’s license.
Links of Interest:
Nursing Board RN/LPN Renewal Requirements
Renewal applicants must meet one of the following practice requirements:
- Practiced as a nurse for 960 hours or more in the past five years OR
- Graduated from a nursing program and obtained a degree within the past five years OR
- Completed an Arizona Board approved refresher course in the past five years OR
- Obtained an advanced nursing degree in the past five years (i.e., LPN to RN, RN to BSN, masters, or doctorate).
Can you keep your nursing license active when not working?
You can keep your nursing license active even when not working, provided you continue to renew it according to your State Board of Nursing’s requirements. Some states may necessitate a minimum number of working hours for renewal, so it’s crucial to review your state’s specific guidelines. To maintain an active license, ensure compliance with any continuing education requirements and stay informed about any changes to licensure regulations. Check your State Board of Nursing’s website for detailed information on maintaining your nursing license.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Renewal Requirements
APRNs must submit a separate application from their RN application to renew their APRN certificate. APRNs must review their RN license first.
APRN Renewal applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Practiced as an advanced practice registered nurse for 960 hours or more in the past five years
- Hold an active Arizona RN OR current RN license with multistate privileges in another compact state.
- Hold active national certification. (Your certificate will expire when your RN license expires)
- 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 (as required by Arizona Revised Statute 32-3248.02)
Guidance for Keeping Your Arizona Nursing License Active
For direct legal help, contact us today or see our Nursing License Defense Attorney page.