Note: Some links may earn us a commission at no cost to you.

Keeping your RN license renewal AZ on time is essential if you want to keep working without interruption. This guide covers everything you need to know about rn license renewal az, including deadlines, fees, competency rules, and how to renew online through the Arizona Board of Nursing.
Note: This page is for general information only. Renewal rules can change. Always confirm current requirements with the official Arizona State Board of Nursing (AZBN).
🗓️ Renewal Frequency & Deadlines
Arizona RN licenses must be renewed regularly to remain active. Key points:
- Renewal is completed online through the Arizona State Board of Nursing renewal portal.
- Arizona uses a biennial (every 2 years) renewal cycle tied to your birth month and year.
- The Board will post renewal information in your online account, but it’s still your responsibility to renew on time.
- Renew as early as possible to avoid last-minute issues with logins, payments, or documentation.
Because renewal dates and policies can change, always check the AZBN website or your renewal notice to confirm your exact due date.
📚 CE Requirements
Arizona does not require a specific number of continuing education (CE) hours for RN license renewal. Instead, you must meet one of the Board’s competency options, which may include:
- Working a minimum number of hours in nursing practice during the renewal period, and/or
- Completing an approved nursing program or obtaining an advanced nursing degree, and/or
- Maintaining national specialty certification or meeting other competency standards accepted by the Board.
Because competency options and audit rules can change, always review the AZBN renewal page before you renew so you understand what is required for your situation.
⭐ Recommended Resource for Nurses
If you’re feeling burned out from bedside nursing or looking for more flexible, remote options, this crash course walks you through the exact roles, skills, and pathways to transition into legitimate work-from-home RN jobs.
🧭 How to Renew Your Arizona RN License
Most Arizona RNs renew online using the Board of Nursing’s renewal system. General steps:
- Review renewal instructions. Visit the AZBN renewal page to confirm current rules, fees, and competency options.
- Gather your information. Have your RN license number, Social Security number (if required), and current contact information ready.
- Create or log in to your online account. Go to the Arizona RN renewal portal and sign in or create an account if you do not already have one.
- Locate your RN license record. From your dashboard, select your RN license and choose the renewal option.
- Answer renewal questions. Complete any practice, disciplinary, and legal history questions accurately and honestly.
- Attest to competency requirements. Indicate how you meet Arizona’s competency standard (such as practice hours, certification, or education).
- Update contact information. Confirm your mailing address, email, and other details so the Board can reach you.
- Pay the renewal fee. Submit payment for the renewal fee (and any late fees, if applicable) through the online portal.
- Confirm submission. Save or print your confirmation page and email receipt for your records.
Processing times can vary. Always wait for confirmation that your license is renewed and active before returning to practice.
💰 Fees
The Arizona State Board of Nursing charges a license renewal fee for RNs. The exact amount can change based on state law or Board policy. In general:
- Review the current RN renewal fee on the AZBN renewal page before you renew.
- Additional late or reinstatement fees may apply if you miss the renewal deadline.
- Fees are typically paid online by credit or debit card through the renewal portal.
Because fees can be updated, always rely on the amount shown in your online renewal or on the official Board website.
❗ If Your Arizona RN License Expires
If you miss the renewal deadline, your Arizona RN license can become expired or inactive. Practicing with an expired or inactive license is not allowed and can lead to disciplinary action. If your license lapses:
- Stop practicing immediately if you discover your license is expired or inactive.
- Check your status using the license lookup system to confirm whether your license is active, expired, inactive, or lapsed.
- Follow the Board’s instructions for late renewal, reinstatement, or reactivation. This may include extra fees, paperwork, or proof of competency.
- Do not return to work until the Board indicates your license is active again.
🔗 Helpful Links
- Arizona State Board of Nursing (AZBN):
https://azbn.gov/ - Renewal & Competency Information:
https://azbn.gov/licenses-and-certifications/renew-your-license - Online Renewal Portal:
https://azbn.gov/licenses-and-certifications/renew-your-license - License Lookup (Verification):
https://azbn.boardsofnursing.org/licenselookup
❓ FAQ – Arizona RN License Renewal
How often do I need to complete RN license renewal in Arizona?
Arizona RN licenses generally renew every 2 years. Your exact renewal date is based on the schedule set by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and is shown in your online account and renewal notice.
Does Arizona require continuing education (CE) for RN license renewal?
Arizona does not require a set number of CE hours. Instead, you must meet one of the Board’s competency options, such as recent practice hours, national certification, or qualifying education. Always confirm the current options on the AZBN website.
How do I renew my Arizona RN license online?
Go to the AZBN renewal page, log in to your online account, select your RN license, complete the renewal questions, attest to competency, update your contact information, and pay the renewal fee. Save your confirmation page and email receipt.
What happens if my Arizona RN license expires?
You cannot legally practice nursing on an expired license. You may need late renewal, reinstatement, or reactivation depending on how long your license has lapsed. Additional fees and documentation may be required.
Can I renew my Arizona RN license if I live in another state?
Often yes, as long as you maintain your Arizona license and meet the Board’s renewal and competency requirements. Always verify current rules with the Arizona State Board of Nursing, especially if you hold licenses in multiple states or compact states.

Leave a Reply