In Massachusetts, registered nurses (RNs) must renew their licenses every two years. The renewal cycle is based on the nurse's birthday—this means the license expires on the last day of the nurse's birth month every odd-numbered year. This ensures that the renewal process is evenly distributed throughout the year, preventing any bottlenecks in processing applications.
Renewal requirements
Renewing your nursing license in Massachusetts involves several key steps:
- Completion of continuing education (CE) requirements
- Submission of a renewal application
- Payment of the renewal fee
Continuing education requirements
Massachusetts requires RNs to complete a specific number of continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain their licenses. The requirements include:
- 15 contact hours of continuing education every two years.
Additionally, there are specific, one-time training requirements:
- Domestic and sexual violence training: This is mandatory for all nurses at each license renewal.
- Training on cognitive impairments: This includes conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, required once at initial licensure or renewal.
The courses must be completed from approved providers to count toward the renewal requirements. Approved providers typically include recognized nursing associations, accredited educational institutions, and other organizations approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.
Timelines and important dates
- License expiration: Your nursing license in Massachusetts will expire on the last day of your birth month every two years.
- Renewal notifications: The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing typically sends out renewal reminders several weeks before your license is due to expire. However, it’s the nurse’s responsibility to ensure their license is renewed on time.
Submitting the renewal application
The renewal application process is straightforward and can be completed online through the Massachusetts Health Professions License Renewal website. Here are the steps involved:
- Log in to the renewal portal: Access the online renewal system using your login credentials.
- Update personal information: Ensure all your contact and personal information is current and accurate.
- Complete the renewal application: Fill out all necessary sections, including attesting to the completion of CE requirements.
- Pay the renewal fee: The renewal fee for RNs in Massachusetts is $120. Payment can be made online using a credit card.
MA Nursing License Renewal fees
The fee for renewing an RN license in Massachusetts is $120. This fee must be paid at the time of application submission and can be processed online.
Late renewal and reinstatement
If you fail to renew your license by the expiration date, you may face late fees and potential disciplinary actions. To reinstate an expired license, you must:
- Submit a reinstatement application.
- Pay the reinstatement fee, which is typically higher than the standard renewal fee.
- Provide evidence of completed CEUs.
It’s crucial to renew your license on time to avoid any lapse in your ability to practice legally.
Verification of license status
You can verify your license status through the Massachusetts Health Professions License Verification website. This tool allows you to confirm that your license is active and that all information is up to date.
Keeping track of CE records
Maintaining accurate records of your completed CEUs is essential. You should keep certificates and documentation of all completed courses for at least four years.
This is important in case you are audited by the Board of Registration in Nursing, which may request proof of your CEU completion.
Tips for a smooth renewal process
- Start early: Begin the renewal process several months before your license expires to ensure you have plenty of time to complete CEUs and gather necessary documents.
- Keep organized: Maintain a dedicated folder (digital or physical) for all your CEU certificates and renewal documents.
- Set reminders: Mark your calendar with key dates and set reminders for when your CEUs are due and when to start the renewal process.
- Stay informed: Regularly check the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing website for any updates or changes to renewal requirements.
Massachusetts Nursing CEU License Renewal Package: 15 Hours
Complete your Massachusetts nursing license renewal requirements in one convenient 15-contact hour online course package.