How Long Can You Not Work as a Nurse and Keep Your License in Texas?
How Long Can You Not Work as a Nurse and Keep Your License in Texas?
In Texas, a nurse can keep their license in an inactive status if they haven’t practiced nursing in the state for less than four years. To reactivate their license, they must complete the necessary reactivation application form, pay the required non-refundable reactivation and current licensure fees, and meet any additional conditions as set by the Texas Board of Nursing.
It’s important for nurses to regularly check their license status and requirements to avoid any unintended lapses in licensure. Nurses who plan to return to practice should start the reactivation process well in advance to ensure timely completion of the necessary steps.
There may be times in your nursing career when you need to take a break, whether for personal, educational, or other reasons. A common question among nurses in Texas is: How long can you stop working as a nurse and still keep your license? At Chelle Law, we are committed to providing accurate and helpful information to address your concerns. Our Texas Nursing Board Defense Attorneys are well-equipped to guide you through these and other complex nursing licensure matters.
The Texas Board of Nursing and Practice Requirements
The Texas Board of Nursing, as the governing body for nurses in Texas, sets the licensure regulations and practice requirements. Its primary responsibility is to safeguard public health, safety, and welfare. How Long Does an RN License Last in Texas?
Texas Nursing Practice Hour Requirements
In Texas, keeping your nursing license does not depend on continuous employment. Instead, the Texas Board of Nursing requires nurses to have practiced nursing for a minimum of 400 hours in the past 4 years or completed 20 contact hours of continuing education in the past 2 years. These requirements apply irrespective of whether these hours are spread out or clustered together. How Can a Nurse Lose Their License in Texas?
Consequences of Not Meeting Practice Requirements
Failing to meet these practice requirements could result in your nursing license becoming inactive. If your license becomes inactive, you cannot practice nursing until you have completed the necessary continuing education or practice hours and have had your license reactivated.
Reactivating Your Texas Nursing License
The process to reactivate an inactive nursing license typically involves submitting an application to the Board and demonstrating that you meet the practice requirements. It’s worth noting that there may also be associated fees and additional requirements, particularly if your license has been inactive for an extended period.
Legal Support for Nursing Licensure Issues
Navigating nursing licensure regulations and practice requirements can be challenging, especially if your license is at risk of becoming inactive. Seeking the assistance of experienced legal professionals can help. At Chelle Law, our Texas Nursing Board Defense Attorneys are well-versed in the laws and rules governing nursing practice in Texas and are ready to provide the guidance and support you need.
Please remember, while this blog post aims to provide an overview of the issue, it does not constitute legal advice. For personalized advice related to your situation, please schedule a consultation with our experienced attorneys.
