IL License Renewal Questions

[Ordered Chaos]

Alright I have a couple questions and thought I might be able to get some things straightened out on here.

First off I am a "new" nurse, I graduated w/ my BSN in December, had troubles w/ paperwork and the NCLEX but got licensed in May, been looking for a job since. I've had about 5 interviews and have found a lot of places are on hiring freezes and even letting handfuls of people go with the way the economy is.

Question 1: Even tho I am licensed and complete my CE, when renewal time comes am I going to have to retake the NCLEX if I havn't been "active"?

Question 2: How does renewal in the State of Illinois work? I know its' new and we have to complete 20 contact hours (which I almost have done just trying to keep in the loop since I can't find a job), but are we just to mail in our certificates of completion near our renewal date?

Hummm I knew there was something else but now I can't think of it...

Hope everyones staying warm, I love the snow but can't stand this below zero weather. :)

[gonzo1, ASN, RN]

You should not ever have to take NCLEX again. It is a one time test. You will get a renewal notice. Send in your money. They will notify you if they want proof that you have completed your 20 CEUs. I haven't ever been asked to give proof. At least not yet.

Heaven help you if they ask you for them and you can't send them the proof. So make sure you always do them and keep proof.

In the mean time if you can't find a job then eventually you might have to sign up and take a refresher course in order to be employable.

Keep looking. I know times are tough right now. But something will open up. If possible take anything you can get just to get your foot in the door.