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Renewing your RN license in Illinois doesn’t have to be stressful. This step-by-step guide to rn license renewal il explains the renewal cycle, continuing education (CE) requirements, fees, and how to complete your renewal through the official Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
If you’re searching for information about Illinois registered nurse license renewal, this guide includes everything you need—from CE requirements to renewal deadlines and official IDFPR links.
If you’re an LPN, keep an eye out for our upcoming guide to Illinois LPN license renewal.
🗓️ Renewal Frequency & Deadlines
Illinois RN licenses are renewed on a two-year cycle set by IDFPR.
- Renewal frequency: Every 2 years
- Expiration date: Generally May 31 of even-numbered years (check your license for the exact date)
- Renewal window: IDFPR typically opens renewal several weeks to months before the expiration date
If you don’t renew by the deadline, your license may become inactive, and you cannot practice as an RN in Illinois until it is restored.
📚 CE Requirements for RN License Renewal in Illinois
To qualify for rn license renewal in Illinois, RNs must complete 20 contact hours of approved continuing education during each two-year renewal cycle.
- Total CE required: 20 contact hours per renewal cycle
- Approved providers: Programs recognized or approved by IDFPR or other accepted accrediting bodies
- Documentation: Keep CE certificates and records for at least one full renewal cycle in case of audit
First renewal after initial licensure:
- Newly licensed Illinois RNs may have modified CE expectations; review IDFPR guidance for your first renewal period.
Always confirm the latest CE requirements on the official Illinois Nursing and IDFPR websites before your renewal.
⭐ 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.
💰 Fees for RN License Renewal Illinois
Illinois RN renewal fees are set by IDFPR and may change, so always confirm current amounts before you pay.
- RN renewal fee: Commonly around $80 (verify current fee on the IDFPR nursing page)
- Late or restoration fees: Additional amounts may apply if you miss the renewal deadline or your license lapses
All fees are paid online when you submit your renewal application.
🧭 How to Renew Your RN License in Illinois
Most nurses complete rn license renewal il online through the official IDFPR portal.
- Go to the Illinois RN renewal page on IDFPR at https://idfpr.illinois.gov/profs/nursing.html.
- Follow the instructions to log in or create an account in the online renewal system.
- Locate your RN license and begin the renewal application.
- Answer all questions truthfully, including any disciplinary or legal history.
- Attest that you’ve completed the required 20 hours of CE for the renewal period.
- Submit the application and pay the renewal fee by the accepted payment method.
- Monitor your email or online account for confirmation that your license has been renewed.
Processing times can vary, so avoid waiting until the last day of the renewal period to submit your application.
🔍 Illinois RN License Lookup
Need to confirm your license status after renewal?
- Use the official Illinois RN license lookup at https://online-dfpr.micropact.com/lookup/licenselookup.aspx.
This lookup tool allows you and employers to verify that your license is active and to view its expiration date.
❗ If Your Illinois RN License Expires or Lapses
If your Illinois RN license expires, you cannot practice until it is restored to active status.
Depending on how long it has been expired, you may be required to:
- Submit a restoration or reinstatement application through IDFPR
- Provide proof of required CE
- Pay additional late or restoration fees
- Meet any other conditions outlined by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
Always review the latest restoration policies on the official IDFPR site before applying.
🔗 Helpful Links
- Illinois RN License Renewal & Nursing Page (IDFPR): https://idfpr.illinois.gov/profs/nursing.html
- Illinois Board of Nursing / IDFPR Nursing: https://idfpr.illinois.gov/profs/nursing.html
- Illinois RN CE Requirements: https://nursing.illinois.gov/nursing-licensure/continuing-education.html
- Illinois RN License Lookup: https://online-dfpr.micropact.com/lookup/licenselookup.aspx
🔎 Need renewal requirements for another state or profession? Visit our complete renewal database — updated regularly with official board links, CE rules, deadlines, and fees.
❓ RN License Renewal Illinois – FAQ
How often do I need to renew my RN license in Illinois?
Illinois RN licenses are typically renewed every two years, with expiration dates generally falling on May 31 of even-numbered years. Always check your IDFPR account or license card for your exact expiration date.
How many CE hours are required for rn license renewal il?
Most Illinois RNs must complete 20 contact hours of approved continuing education during each two-year renewal cycle. Some exceptions or special requirements may apply, so verify details on the Illinois Nursing and IDFPR websites.
Do new Illinois RNs need CE for their first renewal?
Newly licensed RNs may have modified CE requirements for the first renewal cycle. Review the latest IDFPR guidance or contact the Board for clarification before your first renewal.
How much does it cost to renew an Illinois RN license?
The standard renewal fee is often around $80, but fees can change. Check the current amount on the IDFPR nursing page before submitting payment.
Can I practice if my Illinois RN license is expired?
No. You cannot legally practice as an RN in Illinois if your license is expired, inactive, or lapsed. You must complete renewal or restoration and confirm your license is active before returning to work.
How do I verify my RN license status in Illinois?
You can verify your license anytime using the online license lookup at https://online-dfpr.micropact.com/lookup/licenselookup.aspx. The tool shows whether your license is active and lists your current expiration date.
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