How To Renew Your LPN License in Arkansas

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in Arkansas must adhere to specific guidelines and requirements to maintain their licenses. Understanding these details is crucial for avoiding lapses in licensure and ensuring a smooth renewal process. 

Understanding the renewal cycle 

In Arkansas, nursing licenses for LPNs are renewed every two years. The expiration date falls on the last day of the nurse's birth month, making it essential to plan ahead. The Arkansas State Board of Nursing (ASBN) sends out reminders before the expiration date, but it’s ultimately the responsibility of each nurse to ensure they renew on time. 

Renewal requirements 

To successfully renew an LPN license in Arkansas, you must meet the following criteria: 

• Complete 15 contact hours of continuing education (CE) within the two-year renewal period.
• Alternatively, LPNs can satisfy the requirement by achieving a national certification or recertification during the renewal period. 

All continuing education must be approved by the ASBN or accredited by a nationally recognized organization like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). It's essential that LPNs ensure their CE activities are recognized by these approved providers. 

Continuing education requirements 

Continuing education helps nurses stay current with evolving healthcare practices and regulations. Arkansas requires that LPNs complete their CE hours through accredited courses, workshops, seminars, or online modules. You should focus on content that is directly relevant to nursing practice, such as patient care, ethics, infection control, or new healthcare technologies. 

You may also earn CE credits through the following options: 

• Professional conferences: Many healthcare-related conferences offer CE credits for attending.
• Academic courses: College-level courses related to healthcare and nursing also count toward CE requirements.
• Online learning modules: There are many flexible, ASBN-approved online platforms that offer CE courses for busy nurses. 

Timelines and important dates 

LPNs in Arkansas should begin preparing for license renewal several months in advance of their expiration date to avoid any last-minute issues. Since the expiration date is linked to your birth month, planning early is key. 

For example, if your birthday is in September, your license will expire on September 30 of the renewal year. The renewal window typically opens months before the expiration date, giving you plenty of time to complete the required steps. 

Submitting the renewal application 

The renewal process in Arkansas is managed entirely online via the Arkansas Nurse Portal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to completing your renewal: 

1. Log in: Access your account through the Arkansas Nurse Portal.
2. Update personal information: Ensure your contact details and work information are current.
3. Complete the renewal application: Answer questions about your practice and verify the completion of your continuing education.
4. Submit CE documentation: If audited, you'll need to provide proof of completed CE activities or national certification.
5. Pay the renewal fee: The current fee for renewing an LPN license in Arkansas is $100. 

Once your renewal is submitted, you will receive confirmation via email, and your updated license information will be available online. 

Renewal fees 

The standard renewal fee for an LPN license in Arkansas is $100. Payment is made through the Arkansas Nurse Portal during the online renewal process. Be sure to check the ASBN website for any changes to the fee structure, as it can occasionally be adjusted. 

Late renewal and reinstatement 

If you miss your license renewal deadline, Arkansas allows a late renewal period. However, practicing with an expired license is illegal and can result in disciplinary actions. If your license lapses, you will need to apply for reinstatement. The reinstatement process typically involves: 

• Submitting a reinstatement application.
• Paying a higher fee (which includes both the renewal fee and a reinstatement penalty).
• Providing proof of completed CE hours. 

LPNs should make every effort to renew on time to avoid the complications and costs associated with reinstatement. 

Verification of license status 

After submitting your renewal, it’s important to verify that your license has been successfully renewed. You can do this by checking the Arkansas Nurse Portal or using Nursys, a national verification system. This ensures that your license is current and prevents any unexpected lapses that could affect your ability to practice. 

Keeping track of CE records 

It is vital to keep all documentation related to your continuing education for at least four years. The ASBN may conduct random audits to verify compliance, and you will be required to submit certificates or proof of national certification. Most CE providers offer digital certificates that are easy to store and organize. 

Tips for a smooth renewal process 

• Start early: Give yourself enough time to complete the renewal steps, including finishing your CE requirements.
• Organize your CE records: Maintain digital or physical copies of your CE certificates for easy access.
• Double-check your application: Ensure all personal and professional information is up to date before submitting your renewal.
• Set reminders: Use a calendar or digital reminders to alert you of upcoming deadlines related to CE activities and license renewal. 

By following these steps and staying on top of your CE requirements, Arkansas LPNs can ensure a seamless and stress-free license renewal process.