Texas Nursing License Renewal Requirements in 2024

Renewing a nursing license in Texas typically involves completing specific steps and forms. This post provides an overview of the renewal process for nurses, including important information on prerequisites, fees, and other requirements.

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Step-by-Step Process to Renew the Texas Nursing License

1. File an application: To renew a nursing license in Texas, applicants must begin by filing an online or paper application with the state Board of Nursing.

2. Renewal Prerequisites: All nurses must meet certain license renewal criteria. These include completing the required continuing education courses and/or other requirements specified by the Board.

3. Submit fees: The renewal fee varies depending on the type of license being renewed and can be paid online or by mail.

4. Submit supporting documents: Applicants may be required to submit additional documentation such as proof of residency, fingerprinting, criminal background checks, and other paperwork as mandated by the Board.

After submitting an application, you can check it here.

5. Renewal Deadline: All nursing licenses in Texas must be renewed every two years. After the first renewal, your license renewal date will be the last date of your birth month.

Nurses who do not renew their licenses by this deadline must reapply for licensure and may face disciplinary action or fines. Keeping track of renewal dates is vital to ensure the renewal process runs smoothly.

Continue Education Requirements for Texas Nursing License Renewal

Nurses in Texas must complete at least 20 contact hours of continuing education every two years to be eligible for license renewal.

CEU should be done in the following subjects:

Geriatrics
Human Trafficking
Nursing Jurisprudence and Ethics
Forensic Evidence Collection

It is important to note that the state Board of Nursing may require additional education or training courses for certain areas of nursing practice. Nurses must meet these requirements to renew their licenses successfully.

What are the Fees to Renew a Texas Nursing License?

Registered Nurse [RN]- $68
Licensed Vocational Nurse [LVN]- $45
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse [APRN]- $54

Nurses who do not renew their license by the expiration date may be subject to a late fee of up to $60 and any other required fees.

Note: These are just the basic fee, but you may be subject to pay additional charges as per the applicable conditions.

Click here to go to the Texas Nurse Portal for all applications.

When Should I Renew My Texas Nursing License?

Every practicing nurse should be aware of their license renewal date. Texas nursing licenses are valid for two years and must be renewed by the expiration date listed on the license itself. When planning for renewal, it is important to consider additional requirements, such as continuing education hours or other documentation.

To avoid delays, nurses should begin renewal at least four weeks before the license expiration date. This will help ensure everything is complete and submitted on time for a successful revival.

What are the Benefits of Renewing Texas Nursing Licenses?

Renewing your nursing license in Texas offers many benefits, including:

Continued credibility as a nurse: Renewing your license is a way to demonstrate commitment to the field and show that you adhere to the standards of practice determined by the state Board of Nursing.

Access to employment opportunities: Many employers require nurses to maintain their licensure to continue employment.

Possibility for career advancement: Renewing your license can open up new opportunities for higher-level positions or specialized roles, such as advanced practice nurses.

Opportunity to stay updated on changes in the field: Continuing education and other requirements are a way to stay informed about new developments in nursing practice.

Ability to provide the best patient care: Renewing your license ensures you’re knowledgeable and prepared to practice safely and effectively in today’s healthcare environment.

Renewing a nursing license in Texas is an important part of maintaining licensure and keeping up with changes in the field.

Disadvantages of not Renewing License on Time

Failing to renew your nursing license on time in the state of Texas carries several disadvantages, including:

Loss of ability to practice: Nurses who do not renew their licenses by expiration can no longer practice legally in Texas.

Disciplinary action or fines: Failing to renew can result in disciplinary action or fines from the Board of Nursing.

Loss of employment: Many employers require nurses to maintain their licensure to continue employment.

Delays in the renewal process: Please renew on time to avoid delays and additional requirements for reapplication.

Lack of access to continuing education resources: Once a license has expired, nurses may lose access to continuing education resources needed for renewal.

Related FAQs

What is the validity of a Texas nursing license?

The duration of your initial Texas license will range from 6 to 29 months, depending on the month and year of your birth. Subsequent renewals are typically every two years and expire on the last day of your birth month; those born in odd-numbered years will renew in odd-numbered years, while even-number births coincide with even-year renewals.

How many times can you take NCLEX in Texas?

The majority of test-takers pass the exam on their first attempt. However, those who fail can retake it after 45 days from their original testing date. Candidates may take the exam up to 8 times in one year.

Final Words

In conclusion, staying up-to-date with the Texas Nursing License Renewal process is vital to ensure you remain compliant and continue practicing in the state. Renewing your license on time every two years shows that you are committed to providing quality healthcare services. With a simple online application, renewal fees, and completion of continuing education credits, you can renew your Texas Nursing License and remain an active part of the nursing community.