How To Renew Your LPN License in Illinois

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in Illinois are required to renew their licenses every two years. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) manages this process. Knowing the steps, continuing education (CE) requirements, and renewal deadlines is necessary for maintaining an active license and avoiding penalties. 

Understanding the renewal cycle 

Illinois LPN licenses must be renewed every two years. The expiration date for LPN licenses is May 31 of even-numbered years. While the IDFPR sends out reminders, it’s the nurse’s responsibility to renew their license on time. 

Renewal requirements 

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

1. Complete 20 contact hours of CE during each two-year renewal cycle.
2. Submit the renewal application online through the IDFPR portal.
3. Pay the renewal fee, which is currently set at $80. (This is subject to change.) 

CE requirements 

Illinois requires LPNs to complete 20 contact hours of CE during each renewal period. CE must be related to nursing practice and can be completed through approved providers. 

Acceptable CE topics include: 

• Patient care and safety
• Nursing ethics and law
• Infection control practices
• Healthcare technology advancements
• Nursing management and leadership skills 

Approved CE providers must be recognized by the Illinois Board of Nursing or accredited nationally, such as through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). 

Timelines and important dates 

Illinois LPN licenses expire on May 31 even-numbered years. LPNs should aim to complete their CE requirements and begin the renewal process 60 to 90 days before this date to avoid any last-minute issues. If the renewal is not completed by the deadline, the license will expire, and you’ll be unable to legally practice. 

Submitting the renewal application 

The renewal process for Illinois LPNs is completed online via the IDFPR Online Portal. Follow these steps: 

1. Log in to the IDFPR portal. Access your account with your credentials.
2. Complete the renewal application. Update any necessary personal or professional information and verify your CE completion.
3. Pay the renewal fee. The renewal fee for Illinois LPNs is $80 (subject to change).
4. Submit CE documentation if audited. While CE documentation is not required during the renewal process, LPNs must keep their records for at least five years in case of a random audit. 

Renewal fees 

The renewal fee for an Illinois LPN license is $80. If your license has expired, you may incur additional fees for late renewal. The fee must be paid online through the IDFPR portal at the time of application submission. 

Late renewal and reinstatement 

If you miss the renewal deadline, your license will expire. Illinois does not offer a grace period, meaning you cannot practice without an active license. If your license has expired, you can apply for reinstatement, which involves paying both the renewal and reinstatement fees as well as demonstrating CE compliance. Failure to renew promptly can result in fines or other disciplinary actions. 

Verification of license status 

After submitting your renewal, verify the status of your LPN license via the Illinois License Lookup tool. It is important to check that your license status is active before resuming practice, especially if the renewal was completed near the expiration date. 

Keeping track of CE records 

LPNs in Illinois must retain proof of their CE activities for five years. If selected for a random audit, you’ll be required to provide documentation, such as certificates of completion, to demonstrate compliance with the CE requirements. 

Keeping CE records organized digitally is recommended for easy access and quick submission if needed during an audit. Many accredited CE providers offer tools to help track and manage completed hours. 

Tips for a smooth renewal process 

• Start early. Plan to complete your CE hours and begin the renewal process well before your license expiration date to avoid any issues.
• Keep records organized. Maintain a digital or physical file for all CE certificates and proof of compliance with Illinois requirements.
• Set reminders. Use digital reminders or calendar notifications to track deadlines for renewal and CE completion.
• Double-check your information. Before submitting your renewal, verify that your personal information is accurate in the IDFPR portal. 

By adhering to these guidelines and staying on top of your renewal requirements, LPNs in Illinois can avoid lapses in licensure and ensure they remain in compliance with state regulations.