Kansas [KS] Nursing License Renewal Requirements 2024

The Kansas Board of Nursing (KBN) requires all registered nurses to renew their nursing licenses before the deadline to maintain active status as a nurse in the state. Nurses must complete all requirements for renewal by the stated due date or risk having their license become inactive. The following provides an overview of the requirements and processes necessary for nurses to renew their nursing license in Kansas in 2024 successfully.

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KS Nursing License Renewal Requirements

Complete Continuing Education (CE) Hours: All nurses must complete 30 contact hours of continuing education (CE) by the due date to be eligible for renewal. The CE courses are designed to help nurses stay current on best practices and new evidence-based research.

Payment of Renewal Fees: Nurses must pay any applicable fees associated with the renewal. The fees may vary depending on the license type and any additional certifications the nurse holds.

Criminal History Check: All nurses must submit fingerprints for a criminal history check before reapplying for their nursing license. This ensures nurses have not committed any offenses since obtaining their initial license or last renewal.

Submit Application: Nurses must submit a completed renewal application form to the KBN. The form can be downloaded from the website and must be signed and dated by the nurse before submission.

By following these steps and meeting the outlined requirements, nurses can successfully renew their nursing licenses in Kansas.

How to Prepare for the Renewal Process

Nurses should begin preparing for renewal several weeks before the due date. To ensure a smooth transition, nurses should:

Review CE requirements and confirm adequate completion of required hours: Nurses must ensure they have completed all CE hours necessary to meet the requirements before submitting their application.

Download and complete the renewal form: The application form is available online and should be completed before submission.

Gather any necessary documentation: Nurses may need to submit additional documents, such as proof of address or degree transcripts, depending on the requested renewal type.

Schedule a criminal background check: To ensure eligibility, nurses must submit fingerprints for a criminal history check before the due date.

Verify Active Status: Nurses must ensure their license is still active before submitting a renewal application. The KBN website has an updated list of active licenses; nurses can check to ensure their license is still valid.

Submit Renewal Application: Once all requirements have been met, the renewal application must be submitted to the KBN before the due date. Upon approval, the board will review the application and issue a new nursing license.

By following these steps, nurses will be well prepared for the renewal process and can ensure their Kansas nursing license is valid through 2024.

Understanding Kansas Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)

Nurses in Kansas may be eligible to practice under the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to obtain a multistate license and practice in other compact states. To qualify, nurses must meet all Kansas licensure requirements and the NLC’s additional eligibility criteria. For more information on the NLC and how to apply, nurses should contact the KBN.

What is the Kansas Nursing License Renewal Fee

Professional Nurses (RNs): Biennial renewal of license: $85.00
Practical Nurses (LPNs): Biennial renewal of license: $85.00
Registered Nurse Anesthetists (RNAs): Biennial renewal of license: $55.00
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs): $55.00

What Happens if I Don’t Renew License on Time?

There may be serious consequences if a nurse fails to renew their license by the due date. The following outlines some of the possible penalties for not renewing on time:

Loss of Eligibility to Practice: Nurses with inactive licenses will be eligible to practice as registered nurses in Kansas once the license is renewed.

Fines and Penalties: Nurses may be fined or penalized if they fail to renew on time. In extreme cases, nurses may even be prosecuted for practicing without a valid license.

Reinstatement Difficulties: Nurses must meet all renewal requirements to regain active status. This may require additional time and money for the nurse to meet all the requirements, making it challenging to resume practice immediately.

Nurses must understand the process and penalties for not renewing their licenses on time. By preparing for renewal, nurses can ensure their licenses remain active and avoid potential fines or penalties.

Renewal Application Checklist

A nurse’s license will expire on the last day of the month they were born, and it must be renewed every two years.

Note: Renewal Applications and requirements are NOT the same as a Conversion Application! See here for multistate licensure!

Do You Have:

An open renewal window? (90 days or less from your expiration date)
30 hours of CNEs ready to submit to KSBN if audited?

If Applicable:

Please read all the renewal questions closely and answer appropriately as they have changed since your last application.

If you have legal history to report, do you have your supporting documentation?

Benefits of Renewing Your License on Time

Nurses who renew their licenses on time will benefit from the following:

Continued practice rights in the state of Kansas
Protection from any legal action taken against them for practicing without a valid license
Maintaining active status, which may be required by employers or other licensing organizations
Access to resources and information that can help them stay up-to-date on current best practices
The ability to retain their job in the event of a change of employer or position

Renewing your nursing license on time is essential for nurses to practice safely and remain in good standing with the Kansas Board of Nursing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early can I renew my nursing license in Kansas?

Nurses can begin the renewal process up to 90 days before their current license expires.

Is Kansas a compact state?

Yes, Kansas is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to obtain a multistate license and practice in other compact states.

How many times can you take the NCLEX RN in Kansas?

The Kansas Board of Nursing allows nurses to take the NCLEX-RN exam every 45 days and up to 8 times a year.

Which state has the highest pass rate for NCLEX?

New Hampshire boasts the highest pass rate for the NCLEX, making it the top-performing state regarding nursing licensure exam success.

Final Words

Renewing your nursing license on time is essential for nurses to remain in good standing with the Kansas Board of Nursing and practice safely. Following the outlined steps and understanding the renewal process, nurses can ensure their license remains active through 2024. Understanding how to prepare for renewal and utilizing available resources will help make the process smoother. If you still have questions, kindly fill out the Contact Us form.