How to Renew Your LPN License in New Hampshire

Renewing your Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in New Hampshire is essential to maintain your professional standing and continue practicing legally. This guide outlines the renewal cycle, requirements, continuing education (CE) obligations, important timelines, application procedures, fees, and tips for ensuring a seamless renewal process. 

Understanding the renewal cycle 

In New Hampshire, LPN licenses expire every two years on the last day of the licensee's birth month. It's crucial to renew your license before this date to avoid any lapse in licensure.  

Renewal requirements 

To renew your New Hampshire LPN license, you must: 

• Submit a renewal application: Complete the online renewal process through the New Hampshire Online Licensing portal.
• Pay the renewal fee: The renewal fee for an LPN license in New Hampshire is $108.
• Meet practice requirements: You must have completed at least 400 hours of active practice in your nursing role within the four years prior to the application date.  
• Complete continuing education (CE) requirements: Fulfill the CE requirements as specified by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.  

Continuing education requirements 

New Hampshire requires LPNs to complete 24 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years. If administering medications, eight of the 24 CE hours should be related to medication administration.  

Acceptable CE activities include conferences, workshops, lectures, or other educational offerings that enhance nursing knowledge, skills, and judgment. One academic credit converts to 15 CE contact hours, and other individualized learning activities count on an hour-for-hour basis.  

There is no limit to the number of CE hours an LPN may complete through independent study, but they must have some method of verifying course completion.  

Timelines and important dates 

• Renewal notifications: You will receive an email renewal notification 60 days and another within 15 days prior to your license expiration date.
• Renewal period: Begins 60 days before your license expiration date. It's advisable to renew early to ensure all steps are completed on time.
• Expiration date: The last day of your birth month, every two years.
• Late renewal: If you miss the renewal deadline, your license will expire, and you cannot practice until it is reinstated. Practicing with an expired license may result in penalties. 

Submitting the renewal application 

To renew your license: 

1. Access the New Hampshire Online Licensing portal: Log in or register at https://www.oplc.nh.gov/renewing-your-license-online.
2. Complete the renewal application: Update personal information and answer all required questions.
3. Pay the renewal fee: Follow the online instructions to complete payment.
4. Affirm CE completion: Attest to the completion of required CE hours. Be sure to retain documentation for at least four years in case of audit. 

Detailed instructions are available on the New Hampshire Board of Nursing website.  

Renewal fees 

The renewal fee for an LPN license in New Hampshire is $108. Late renewals may incur additional fees.  

Late renewal and reinstatement 

If you miss the renewal deadline, your license will expire, and you cannot practice until it is reinstated. To reinstate your license, you must submit a reinstatement application and pay the appropriate fees. Practicing with an expired license may result in penalties.  

Verification of license status 

You can verify your license status through the New Hampshire Board of Nursing's verification service at https://www.oplc.nh.gov/new-hampshire-board-nursing. This tool confirms your license's current status and expiration date.  

Keeping track of CE records 

Maintain records of your CE activities, including certificates of completion, for at least four years after the renewal period. This documentation is essential if you're selected for a CE audit by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.  

Tips for a smooth renewal process 

• Start early: Begin the renewal process as soon as the renewal period opens to ensure all steps are completed on time.
• Stay organized: Keep personal information up to date and maintain records of all CE activities and related documentation.
• Use the online portal: The New Hampshire Online Licensing portal offers a streamlined renewal process.
• Monitor communications: Regularly check your email and the New Hampshire Board of Nursing website for updates or notifications regarding your license. 

By adhering to these guidelines and staying proactive, you can ensure a seamless renewal of your New Hampshire LPN license, allowing you to continue your nursing practice without interruption.