How to Renew Your LPN License in Oregon

Renewing your licensed practical nurse (LPN) license in Oregon is essential to maintain your professional credentials and continue practicing 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 Oregon, LPN licenses expire biennially on your birthdate. If you were born in an odd-numbered year, your license expires in odd-numbered years; if born in an even-numbered year, it expires in even-numbered years. Renewal applications can be submitted up to 90 days before your license expiration date.  

Renewal requirements 

To renew your Oregon LPN license, you must: 

• Submit a renewal application: Complete the online renewal process through the Oregon State Board of Nursing's Nurse Portal.
• Pay the renewal fee: The renewal fee for an LPN license in Oregon is $145.  
• Complete continuing education (CE) requirements: Fulfill the CE requirements as specified by the Oregon State Board of Nursing.
• Meet practice hour requirements: Accumulate at least 400 hours of nursing practice at the LPN level within the two years immediately preceding the renewal application.  

Continuing education requirements 

Oregon requires LPNs to complete specific continuing education to ensure ongoing competency: 

• Pain management education: A one-time requirement of six hours in pain management on initial licensure, including a one-hour course provided by the Oregon Pain Management Commission, is required for every licensure renewal.
• Cultural competency education: Two hours of cultural competency continuing education are required for every renewal.  

Practice hour requirements 

To renew your LPN license, you must attest to one of the following within the two years immediately preceding the renewal application: 

• 400 hours of nursing practice: At the LPN level.
• Alternative practice hours with CE:
  • 600 hours of practice in the last three years, plus 20 hours of continuing education related to your area of nursing practice.
  • 800 hours of practice in the last four years, plus 30 hours of continuing education related to your area of practice. 

Employer-required continuing education does not qualify for these additional CE hours.  

Timelines and important dates 

• Renewal period: You can renew your license up to 90 days before your expiration date. It's advisable to renew early to ensure all steps are completed on time.
• Expiration date: Your license expires at 11:59 p.m. on your birthdate in the renewal year. There is no grace period for licensure renewal.
• Late renewal: Applications received after the expiration date are subject to a delinquent fee of $100 in addition to the renewal fee. If the application is not completed within 30 days of the expiration date, it is considered void, and you will need to apply for license reactivation.  

Submitting the renewal application 

To renew your license: 

1. Access the nurse portal: Log in or register at the Oregon State Board of Nursing's Nurse Portal.
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. Attest to CE and practice hours completion: Attest to the completion of the required CE hours and practice hours; retain documentation in case of audit. 

Renewal fees 

• Standard renewal fee: $145.
• Delinquent fee: $100, applied to applications received after the expiration date.  

Late renewal and reactivation 

If you do not renew your license by the expiration date, it will expire, and you must apply for reactivation 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 Oregon State Board of Nursing's verification service. This tool confirms your license's current status and expiration date. O 

Keeping track of CE records 

Maintain records of your CE activities, including certificates of completion, for at least two years after the renewal period. This documentation is essential if you're selected for a CE audit by the Oregon State 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 

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