How do I maintain board certification as a nurse or NP?

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Can you please inform me whether it is possible maintain board certification for being a nurse or nurse practitioner without having to resit for the boards, even though one may not be licensed to practice in a particular state?

What things maybe required to do this? And what would be required if I was seeking to get licensed later on, I.e 3, 5, or 10 years.

(My understanding is that licensing and board certification are two different processes).

Many thanks in advance for your guidance.

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Maintaining board certification as a nurse or nurse practitioner without resitting for the boards is possible, although most certifications require active licensure.

Board certification and licensure are two different processes, each with its own requirements and procedures.

Maintaining Board Certification

Continuing Education: Most certifying bodies, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), require that certified nurses complete a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) or professional development activities within a specified period to maintain certification. This usually includes:

  • Continuing education courses
  • Professional development activities
  • Clinical practice hours (though this varies)

Renewal application. You must submit a renewal application to your certifying body before your current certification expires. This application often includes proof of completed CEUs and other professional development activities.

Fees. Payment of a renewal fee is usually required as part of the recertification process.

Compliance with certification standards. Ensuring you meet all other criteria set by the certifying body may include maintaining an active RN license, even if not actively practicing in a specific state.

Requirements for Licensure

If you decide to seek licensure later on, the requirements will depend on how long you have been out of practice. 

Each state board of nursing has specific procedures for reinstating or reactivating an expired or inactive license. These may include:

  • Completion of a certain number of practice hours or a refresher course
  • Payment of applicable fees
  • Meeting any additional state-specific requirements
  • Practice hours: Some states require that you have a certain number of practice hours within a recent timeframe (e.g., within the last two to five years). You might need to complete a supervised practice period or a refresher course if you lack recent practice hours.
  • Continuing education. Similar to certification, you may need proof of continuing education to demonstrate that you have kept current with current nursing practices. This varies by state.
  • Background checks. Many states require a criminal background check and fingerprinting as part of the licensure process.

Long-term Considerations (3, 5, or 10 years)

  • Short-term absence (up to 3 years). Generally, you may need to meet the CEU requirements and provide proof of recent practice or complete a refresher course.
  • Medium-term absence (3-5 years). You might be required to complete additional CEUs, a refresher course, and a supervised practice period.
  • Long-term absence (5-10 years or more). More comprehensive steps are likely needed, such as extensive refresher courses, longer supervised practice periods, potentially passing an assessment exam, or even re-education.

Summary

Maintaining your board certification without resitting the boards typically involves ongoing professional development and adherence to the certifying requirements.

Should you wish to reactivate your license after a period of not practicing, you will need to comply with the specific requirements of the state board of nursing, which may become more stringent the longer you are out of practice.

For precise details, it's essential to consult the specific certifying bodies (e.g., ANCC, AANP) and state boards of nursing, as requirements can vary significantly between organizations and states.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

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