How To Renew Your LPN License in North Dakota

Renewing your licensed practical nurse (LPN) license in North Dakota is essential to maintaining your professional credentials and continuing to practice legally. This guide provides detailed information on the renewal process, requirements, continuing education (CE) obligations, important timelines, application procedures, fees, and tips for a seamless renewal experience. 

Understanding the renewal cycle 

In North Dakota, LPN licenses expire biennially on December 31. The online renewal period opens on October 1 and closes on December 31 of the renewal year. It's advisable to renew early to ensure all steps are completed on time.  

Renewal requirements 

To renew your North Dakota LPN license, you must: 

• Submit a renewal application. Complete the online renewal process through the North Dakota Board of Nursing's Nurse Portal.
• Pay the renewal fee. The renewal fee for an LPN license in North Dakota is $130.
• Complete CE requirements. Fulfill the CE requirements as specified by the North Dakota Board of Nursing.
• Meet practice requirements. Accumulate at least 400 hours of nursing practice in the prior four years.  

CE requirements 

North Dakota requires LPNs to complete 12 contact hours of CE every two years. Applicants who obtained their initial licensure through examination are exempt from this requirement for their first renewal, as the academic coursework fulfills the CE requirements.  

Practice requirements 

All nurses renewing a nursing license must meet or exceed 400 hours of nursing practice in the prior four years. Hours practiced in another regulated profession cannot be applied to nursing practice hours.  

Nursing professionals who have completed a refresher course within the previous year or graduated from a nursing undergraduate or graduate program in the last four years with less than 400 hours of nursing practice can renew their license without meeting this requirement.  

Timelines and important dates 

• Renewal period: The online renewal period opens on October 1 and closes on December 31 of the renewal year.
• Late renewal: If you don’t renew by the deadline, your license will expire, and you must apply for reinstatement to resume practice. Practicing with an expired license is illegal and may result in penalties.  

Submitting the renewal application 

To renew your license: 

1. Access the North Dakota Nurse Portal. Log in or register at https://ndbon.boardsofnursing.org/ndbn.
2. Complete the renewal application. Update your personal information and answer all required questions.
3. Pay the renewal fee. Follow the online instructions to complete payment.
4. Attest to CE completion. Attest to the completion of the required CE hours and retain documentation in case of an audit.
5. Verify practice hours. Ensure you have met the required 400 hours of nursing practice in the previous four years, if applicable. 

Renewal fees 

The renewal fee for North Dakota LPN license renewal is $130.  

Late renewal and reinstatement 

If you don’t renew your license by December 31, it will expire, and you must apply for reinstatement to resume practice. Practicing with an expired license is illegal and may result in penalties.  

Verification of license status 

You can verify your license status through the North Dakota Board of Nursing's verification service at https://ndbon.boardsofnursing.org/licenselookup. This tool confirms your license's 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 North Dakota 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 Nurse Portal offers a streamlined renewal process.
• Monitor communications. Regularly check your email and the North Dakota Board of Nursing website for updates or notifications regarding your license. 

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