keeping license active

[amirana1]

Hello, if I decide not to work after I get my license, what are some way to keep my license active besides working? I've heard about continuing education classes, so can any of you give me some information about that? Can I take those classes for free? Do I need some working experience to take ce classes?

Would it be better to put my status as inactive until I decide to work? What are the processes of changing it back to active?

Thank you!

[dah doh, BSN, RN]

You should check with the BRN of the state you are licensed. In my state, an active status license means you CAN work in the state, not that you have to. Renewal is based on filling out the renewal form, paying the fee, and obtaining the correct number of CEU (continuing education units) which are usually classes or nursing articles & courses with a graded post-test. Many of these you pay for but employers will offer many for free. You can find free CEUs online or in nursing magazines as well.

An inactive license is slightly less expensive but it means you can NOT work as a nurse until you change your status back to active by notifying the BRN, paying the fees, and obtaining the appropriate number of CEUs. If you let your license lapse, you have to take boards again.

Please check with you state's BRN since each state is different.

[amirana1]

Okay thank you! But what is the difference between taking ce classes to keep license active and changing your status as active to inactive ? I mean, if you dont plan on working for some time, why do people choose to take ce classes over changing the status from active to inactive??

[dah doh, BSN, RN]

I think that is a personal decision. In some states you can only remain inactive for a certain number of years until you have to retake boards to get an active license or give up your license. Sometimes you change careers or take off time from nursing to raise kids or care for a relative and you don't want to give up your license so you pay the fees but skip the CEUs and become inactive. If you plan to go to nursing grad school, you should remain active though. In my state, the first time you renew your license, they waive the CEU requirements so it remains active unless you indicate otherwise.