Ohio Nursing
License Requirements &
Renewal Guide
Ohio Nurse License Overview
Getting your Ohio nursing license can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be.
Whether you're applying for the first time, endorsing from another state, or renewing your license, this guide covers everything you need to know—requirements, fees, timelines, and continuing education.
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How long does it take to get a Ohio Nursing License?
Permanent License
RN (BRN): Approximately 10–12 weeks once all materials (transcripts, fingerprints, and verification) are received.
LVN (BVNPT): Currently faster, averaging 3–4 weeks for endorsement applications as of early 2026.
Temporary License
RN (BRN): Yes. Valid for 6 months. It takes approximately 2–3 weeks to issue, but only after your fingerprints (Live Scan or Hard Card) have been processed by the DOJ and FBI.
LVN (BVNPT): No. Unlike RNs, Ohio does not currently offer a temporary license for LVNs/LPNs coming from out of state. However, they do offer an Interim Permit ($50) for new graduates waiting to take the NCLEX-PN.
Board of Nursing
FEES
Fees Breakdown
Detailed overview of applicable fees and charges
| Item | RN (Registered Nurse) | LVN (Vocational Nurse) |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Application | $75.00 | $75.00 |
| Temporary Practice Permit | ~$25.00 | ~$25.00 |
| Renewal (2-year cycle) | $65.00 | $65.00 |
| Background Check | ~$30–$60 | ~$30–$60 |
Key Sections:
Ohio License Renewal
- Renewal cadence: Your first Ohio RN or LPN license is issued for two birthdays, not two years. It will expire on the last day of the month following your birth date. From that date forward, the license expires every two years if renewed timely.
- RN Renewal fee: $190.00 Note: If you have prescriptive authority, an additional $30.00 CURES fee is assessed, bringing the total to $220.00.
- LPN Renewal fee: $305.00
- Late fee: If renewed after the expiration date, a delinquent fee is added (+$90 for RNs / +$150 for LPNs).
Required contact hours:
- Standard Requirement: 30 contact hours every two years.
- First-Time Renewal: While the 30-hour requirement is generally waived for your very first renewal, you are now required to complete 1 hour of Implicit Bias training within the first two years of licensure per California AB 1407.
Renewal Process:
- Renewal of your license is done exclusively online through the BreEZesystem. It is highly recommended to renew at least 4–8 weeks before your expiration date to ensure your "Active" status updates in the system.
Working Status:
- You may work while your license renewal is pending, provided that the renewal fee and all requirements (including the mandatory implicit bias hour for first-timers) were submitted on or before the expiration date.
- Important Note:Most employers verify status via the online DCA search. If your license reaches its expiration date without the Board processing the renewal, your status will show as "Delinquent," which may prevent you from being scheduled for shifts.
Important Things to Know: Ohio Nurse Licenses (2026)
| Feature | RN (Registered Nurse) | LVN (Vocational Nurse) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Board | Ohio Board of Nursing | Ohio Board of Nursing |
| Compact Status | Yes (NLC State) | Yes (NLC State) |
| Background Check | Required (BCI & FBI if applicable) | Required (Criminal background check; FBI fingerprinting if applicable) |
| License Verification | Via Nursys | Required |
| Education Standards | Approved nursing program | Approved nursing program |
| Application Portal | Ohio eLicense System | Ohio eLicense System |
| Criminal History | Must be disclosed and reviewed | Must be disclosed and reviewed |
| Processing Time | 2–4 weeks | 2–4 weeks |
OH Licensure by Endorsement
Process: Permanent License
- 1.
Online Application
- Submit your application through the Ohio eLicense system
- 2.
Verification of Licensure
- Completed through Nursys
- Manual verification required if state does not participate
- 3.
Education & Documentation
- Proof of graduation from approved nursing program
- Transcripts (if required)
- Additional documents for foreign graduates
- 4.
Disclosure of Discipline
- Applicants must disclose any prior disciplinary actions and criminal convictions.
- Supporting documentation is required, and applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
- 5.
Background Check & Fingerprints
- Ohio BCI check required
- FBI fingerprinting if applicable
Temporary License
- 1.
Availability
- Yes (Temporary Permit)
- 2.
Validity & Use
- Valid up to 6 months
- Allows practice while license is processed
- 3.
Background Check Requirement
- Application submitted
- Background check initiated
Ohio Continuing Education Requirements
Your Guide to Continuing Education Requirements in Ohio
Quick Reference Table
| License Type | Hours Required | First Renewal (0-2 Years) | Standard Renewal (2+ Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| RN | 24 contact hours | Must include 1 hr Category A | Must include 1 hr Category A |
| LPN | 24 contact hours | Must include 1 hr Category A | Must include 1 hr Category A |
| APRN | Varies | Must meet national certification requirements | Must meet national certification requirements |
Mandatory CE Requirements
Ohio requires all RNs and LPNs to complete 24 contact hours every 2 years. Within those hours, 1 hour of Category A (Ohio Nurse Practice Act & rules) is mandatory for all nurses. Additional CE may be required based on specialty (e.g., APRN).
Required Mandatory Training
- 1 Hour: Category A (Ohio Nurse Practice Act & rules) — mandatory for all nurses
- Additional CE may be required based on specialty (e.g., APRN)
Key Notes for Ohio
- Category A (1 hour) is mandatory for all nurses
- CE must be completed within the renewal cycle
- APRN requirements depend on certification body
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Download CerTracker for FreeFAQs About Ohio Nursing License
How much does an Ohio nursing license cost?
Ohio nursing license renewal typically costs $65 every two years. Late renewals incur an additional $50 fee, plus a small processing charge.
How long does it take to get an Ohio nursing license?
Typically 2–4 weeks, depending on how quickly documents and background checks are completed.
How many CE hours are required to renew a nursing license in Ohio?
Nurses must complete 24 contact hours every two years, including 1 hour of Category A law and rules.