To obtain your Colorado nursing license, you need to follow the specific requirements set by the Colorado Board of Nursing. The state board of nursing is the official website where you can find all the necessary information and forms for each type of nursing license, including registered nurse (RN), licensed practical nurse (LPN), certified nurse aide (CNA), and advanced practice nurse (APN). It is important to note that the communication from the Division of Professions and Occupations is primarily conducted via email, so make sure to provide your current email address on your application. Additionally, the expiration dates for nursing licenses vary depending on the type of license, and renewals open approximately six weeks prior to the expiration date.
Key Takeaways:
- Follow the specific requirements set by the Colorado Board of Nursing to obtain your nursing license.
- Visit the state board of nursing website for all the necessary information and forms.
- Provide your current email address for communication from the Division of Professions and Occupations.
- Be aware of the varying expiration dates for nursing licenses and renewals.
Steps to Obtain Nursing License in Colorado
The process of obtaining a nursing license in Colorado involves several important steps. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and successful application process.
- Submit an Application Online: Start by submitting your application online through the official website of the Colorado Board of Nursing. Make sure to fill out all the required fields accurately and completely. Along with the application, you will need to pay the necessary fee.
- Provide Identification and Verification: You will need to provide a valid United States Social Security Number (SSN). If you don’t have an SSN, you can complete an SSN Affidavit form. Additionally, you will need to request verification of licensure via Nursys from your original state of licensure and any other states or countries where you have held a nursing license.
- Undergo Fingerprint and Background Check: As part of the licensing process, you will be required to undergo a fingerprint and background check. This is to ensure the safety of patients and the public.
- Provide Education and License Information: You will need to provide information about your nursing degree education, including the name of the institution and the dates attended. If you have held any other healthcare licenses, you will be asked to provide details about those as well. Additionally, you will need to provide license verification information for each state or country where you have held a nursing license.
- Submit Supporting Documentation: You may need to submit supporting documentation for name changes, if applicable. Make sure to have all the required documents ready to upload as part of your application.
- Answer Screening Questions and Complete Healthcare Professions Profile: You will need to answer general and criminal history screening questions honestly and accurately. Additionally, you will need to complete the Healthcare Professions Profile, which includes providing detailed information about your nursing practice and uploading supporting documentation, such as your resume and continuing education certificates.
Remember, accuracy and completeness are crucial throughout the application process. Double-check all the information you provide and ensure that you have provided all the required documents and data. This will help prevent any delays or issues with your nursing license application.
Once you have completed all the necessary steps, you can submit your application and await the review and approval process. It’s important to keep track of the progress of your application and respond promptly to any requests for additional information or documentation.
Obtaining your nursing license in Colorado is an exciting milestone in your nursing career. Follow these steps, be proactive, and stay organized to make the process as smooth as possible.
Colorado Nursing License Requirements
| License Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Registered Nurse (RN) | – Completed nursing education program – Passed the NCLEX-RN examination – Valid United States SSN or SSN Affidavit – License verification from original state of licensure and any other states or countries – Fingerprint and background check – Healthcare Professions Profile |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | – Completed practical nursing education program – Passed the NCLEX-PN examination – Valid United States SSN or SSN Affidavit – License verification from original state of licensure and any other states or countries – Fingerprint and background check – Healthcare Professions Profile |
| Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) | – Completed state-approved nurse aide training program – Competency evaluation – Valid United States SSN or SSN Affidavit – License verification from original state of licensure and any other states or countries – Fingerprint and background check – Healthcare Professions Profile |
| Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) | – Completed advanced practice nursing education program – Valid United States SSN or SSN Affidavit – License verification from original state of licensure and any other states or countries – Fingerprint and background check – Healthcare Professions Profile |
Renewal and Expiration of Nursing Licenses in Colorado
Nursing licenses in Colorado have specific renewal and expiration requirements. It is important to stay informed about the renewal process and expiration dates to ensure that your license remains active and in compliance with the regulations set by the Colorado Board of Nursing.
Expiration Dates
The expiration dates for nursing licenses in Colorado vary depending on the type of license:
- Registered Nurse (RN) licenses and Advanced Practice Nursing (APN) authorities expire on September 30 of odd- or even-numbered years, depending on the issuance date.
- C-APN authorities can only be renewed if the Compact RN is active with multistate privileges.
- All Practical Nurse licenses expire on August 31 of even-numbered years.
- Nurse Aide certifications expire on January 31 of odd-numbered years.
You can view the specific expiration date for your license on your online account. It is essential to adhere to the expiration date to avoid practicing with an expired license.
Renewal Process
The renewal process for nursing licenses in Colorado opens approximately six weeks prior to the expiration date. It is crucial to start the renewal process in a timely manner to avoid any disruption in your nursing practice.
All renewal applications must be submitted online through the official Colorado Board of Nursing website. The renewal fee for nursing licenses in Colorado is $108.00.
New applicants who are issued a license within 120 days of the upcoming renewal expiration date will be issued a license with the next expiration date, aligning with the two-year renewal cycle.
Accompanying the renewal application, you may be required to complete a specified number of contact hours, depending on the type of license. The contact hour requirements vary, so it is essential to review the specific requirements for your license type on the Colorado Board of Nursing website.
In addition to the renewal fee and contact hour requirement, you may need to provide any updated information, changes in your personal details, and supporting documentation as required by the Colorado Board of Nursing.
Summary
To ensure the continuous practice of nursing in Colorado, it is important to stay updated on the renewal and expiration requirements set by the Colorado Board of Nursing. Be proactive in renewing your license within the designated timeframe and meeting the necessary obligations for renewal. By doing so, you can maintain an active nursing license and continue your rewarding career in the field of healthcare.
Conclusion
Obtaining a nursing license in Colorado is a straightforward process that requires careful adherence to the specific requirements set by the Colorado Board of Nursing. By following the step-by-step process outlined above, you can navigate the licensing process with ease and begin your rewarding career in the field of nursing.
To get started, submit your application online, ensuring that you provide all the necessary documentation, such as verification of licensure, fingerprints, and background checks. Additionally, complete the Healthcare Professions Profile accurately and thoroughly, and answer screening questions truthfully, while uploading any required supporting documentation.
Once you have successfully obtained your nursing license, don’t forget about the renewal process. Make sure to stay informed about the specific renewal and expiration dates for your license type and complete the renewal process according to the given timeline. By doing so, you can ensure the uninterrupted validity of your nursing license in Colorado.
FAQ
How do I apply for a nursing license in Colorado?
To apply for a nursing license in Colorado, you need to submit an application online through the Colorado Board of Nursing’s official website. You will also need to pay the required fee and provide supporting documentation.
What documentation do I need to provide when applying for a nursing license in Colorado?
When applying for a nursing license in Colorado, you will need to provide verification of licensure via Nursys from your original state of licensure and any other states or countries where you have held a license. You will also need to undergo a fingerprint and background check, provide information about your nursing degree education, and submit supporting documentation for name changes, if applicable.
How often do nursing licenses in Colorado need to be renewed?
The expiration dates for nursing licenses in Colorado vary depending on the type of license. Registered Nurse licenses and Advanced Practice Nursing (APN) authorities expire on September 30 of odd- or even-numbered years, depending on the issuance date. Practical Nurse licenses expire on August 31 of even-numbered years, and Nurse Aide certifications expire on January 31 of odd-numbered years.
When can I renew my nursing license in Colorado?
The renewal process for nursing licenses in Colorado opens approximately six weeks prior to the expiration date. You can view your expiration date on your online account and renew your license accordingly.
How much does it cost to renew a nursing license in Colorado?
The renewal fee for nursing licenses in Colorado is 8.00. Please note that required contact hours for renewal may vary depending on the type of license.
