Navigating CE Requirements for RNs in Florida

In Florida’s vibrant healthcare landscape, nurses are principal providers of quality care to many diverse communities. To uphold professional standards and remain current in their field, registered nurses (RNs) in Florida must adhere to specific continuing education (CE) requirements for license renewal. 

Let's explore what Florida RNs need to know about CE requirements, the renewal process, and how to fulfill these obligations, including meeting the renewal deadline.

CE requirements for Florida RNs

1. Mandated hours:

• RNs are required to complete 24 hours of CE during each two-year renewal period. 

2. License Renewal Deadline:

RNs’ licenses are renewed by the Florida Board of Nursing (BON) in three groups with current licenses expiring in April or July.

• Group 1 – current license will expire at midnight, Eastern Standard Time, April 30, 2026
• Group 2 – current license will expire at midnight, Eastern Standard Time, July 31, 2026
• Group 3 – current license will expire at midnight, Eastern Standard Time, April 30, 2025

3. Content Criteria:

CE courses for Florida RNs must cover topics relevant to nursing practice, patient care, or professional development. The following courses are required for relicensure: 

• Two contact hours on medical errors
• Two contact hours on Florida laws and rules
• Two contact hours on recognizing impairment in the workplace
• Two contact hours on human trafficking 

In addition to the 24 hours of general CE, each RN must complete two contact hours on domestic violence every third renewal for a total of 26 hours.

4. Approved Providers:

To fulfill CE requirements, Florida RNs can choose from various approved providers, including:

• Accredited educational institutions
• Professional nursing organizations
• Healthcare facilities
• Online platforms that offer CE courses approved by the Florida BON such as Nurse.com

5. Documentation:

RNs are required to keep records of their completed CE courses for a specified period, typically four years. These records serve as proof of compliance in case of an audit by the Florida BON.

Renewal Process:

1. Application submission:

• RN license renewal in Florida is primarily conducted online through the Florida BON's website. Nurses can access the renewal application about four months before their license expires.

 2. Fee payment:

• Besides the renewal application, RNs must submit a renewal fee of $75. The fee amount is subject to change, so it's important to verify the fee via the BON’s website.

3. CE attestation:

• CE Requirement: Before completing the renewal application process, nurses are expected to make sure their completed CEs are listed in the BON’s Continuing Education Tracking system. They can also self-report any missing CE completions. 

For Florida RNs, meeting CE requirements is a professional obligation and a commitment to maintaining competence and delivering exceptional patient care. Through continuing education, Florida RNs can stay current with industry trends, enhance their skills, and contribute to improved health outcomes for their patients and communities.  

And the diverse CE options available mean nurses have the flexibility to choose courses that align with their professional goals and interests.