How to Renew Your LVN License in Texas

Renewing your licensed vocational nurse (LVN) license in Texas is essential to maintain your professional credentials and continue practicing legally. This guide provides detailed information on the renewal process, requirements, continuing education obligations, important timelines, application procedures, fees, and tips for a seamless renewal experience. 

Understanding the renewal cycle 

In Texas, LVN licenses are valid for two years and expire on the last day of your birth month. 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.  

The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) typically sends out renewal reminders 60 days before your license expires. However, it's your responsibility to renew your license before the expiration date to avoid any lapse in your ability to practice.  

Renewal requirements 

To renew your Texas LVN license, you must: 

• Submit a renewal application: complete the online renewal process through the Texas nurse portal.
• Pay the renewal fee: the renewal fee for an LVN license in Texas is $68.
• Meet continuing competency requirements: fulfill the continuing education requirements as specified by the Texas board of nursing.  

Continuing competency requirements 

Texas requires LVNs to demonstrate continuing competency by completing one of the following during each two-year licensing period: 

• Twenty contact hours of continuing nursing education (CNE): in your area of practice, approved by a credentialing agency recognized by the BON.
• Achievement, maintenance, or renewal of a board-approved national nursing certification: in your area of practice.  

Additionally, there are targeted continuing education requirements specific to certain practice areas, such as: 

• Forensic evidence collection: A one-time requirement for nurses involved in patient care.
• Geriatric care: for nurses working with older adult populations.
• Tick-borne diseases: for nurses in specific practice settings. 

Ensure you complete any applicable targeted continuing education as required.  

Timelines and important dates 

• Renewal period: you can renew your license up to 60 days before the expiration date. It's advisable to begin the renewal process as soon as the renewal period opens to ensure all requirements are met and to avoid any last-minute issues.
• Expiration date: your license expires on the last day of your birth month in either odd or even-numbered years, depending on your birth year. Practicing with an expired license is illegal and may result in disciplinary action.  

Submitting the renewal application 

To renew your license: 

1. Access the Texas nurse portal: log in or register at the Texas nurse portal.
2. Complete the renewal application: update personal information and answer all required questions. Ensure accuracy to prevent processing delays.
3. Pay the renewal fee: follow the online instructions to complete payment of the $68 renewal fee.
4. Attest to continuing competency completion: you must attest on the renewal application that you have completed the required continuing competency activities. Retain documentation in case of audit. 

Renewal fees 

• Standard renewal fee: $68 for biennial renewal.  

Late renewal and reactivation 

If you do not renew your license by the expiration date, it becomes delinquent, and you must apply for reactivation to resume practice. Practicing with a delinquent license is illegal and may result in penalties. The reactivation process may require proof of competency, completion of additional requirements, and payment of reactivation fees.  

Verification of license status 

You can verify your license status through the Texas Board of Nursing's online verification system. This tool confirms your license's current status and expiration date.  

Keeping track of continuing competency records 

Maintain records of your continuing competency activities, including certificates of completion and other documentation, for at least two licensure renewal cycles. This documentation is essential if you're selected for an audit by the Texas 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 continuing competency activities and related documentation.
• Use the online portal: the Texas nurse portal offers a streamlined renewal process. Ensure you have access and are familiar with the system before your renewal period.
• Monitor communications: regularly check your email and the Texas 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 Texas LVN license, allowing you to continue your nursing practice without interruption.