How Do I Keep My Nursing License Active When Not Working in Arizona?

RN and LPN renewal of licensure is required every 4 years. However, Arizona is a Nurse License Compact State, and if your Primary State of Residency is in another Compact State, you should not apply for licensure in Arizona unless you are declaring Arizona as your Primary State of Residency. Primary State of Residency is defined as where you vote, pay taxes and hold a driver’s license.

Nursing Board RN/LPN Renewal Requirements

Renewal applicants must meet one of the following practice requirements:

1. Practiced as a nurse for 960 hours or more in the past 5 years OR
2. Graduated from a nursing program and obtained a degree within past 5 years OR
3. Completed an Arizona Board approved refresher course in the past 5 years OR
4. Obtained an advanced nursing degree in the past 5 years (i.e. LPN to RN, RN to BSN, masters, or doctorate).

Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Renewal Requirements

APRNs are required to submit a separate application from their RN application to renew their APRN certificate. APRNs must revew their RN license first. APRN Renewal applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Practiced as an advanced practice registered nurse for 960 hours or more in the past 5 years
2. Hold an active Arizona RN OR current RN license with multistate privileges in another compact state.
3. Hold active national certification. (Your certification will expire when your RN license expires)
4. APRNs who hold an active DEA license, MUST have completed a minimum of three hours of opioid-related, substance use disorder-related or addiction-related continuing education (as required by Arizona Revised Statute 32-3248.02)

Nursing License Defense Attorneys

If you’re interested in learning more about our Arizona Nursing License Probation services and how to protect your rights, set up a consultation with Chelle Law and our Arizona Nursing Attorney reach out to us today.