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RN License Renewal Ohio: Requirements, Fees & CE (2025 Guide)

Renewing your RN license in Ohio doesn’t have to be confusing. This step-by-step guide to rn license renewal ohio explains the renewal cycle, continuing education (CE) requirements, fees, and how to complete your renewal through the official Ohio eLicense system.

If you’re an LPN, watch for our upcoming guide to Ohio LPN license renewal.

🗓️ Renewal Frequency & Deadlines

Ohio RNs renew on a two-year cycle set by the Ohio Board of Nursing (OBN).

• Renewal period opens: July 1 of odd-numbered years
• On-time renewal deadline: October 31
• Late renewal begins: November 1 (late fee applies)

If you miss the deadline, your license may lapse until all renewal steps are completed and processed by the Board.

📚 CE Requirements for Ohio RN License Renewal

To renew an Ohio RN license, you must complete 24 contact hours of approved continuing education during each renewal cycle.

• Total required CE: 24 contact hours
• Mandatory content: At least 1 contact hour in the Ohio Nurse Practice Act (Category A)
• Provider requirement: CE must be completed through an Ohio Board of Nursing–approved provider

First renewal after initial licensure:

• Complete 24 contact hours total, including 1 hour of Category A
• Hours must be completed after the date your RN license was issued

Always keep your CE certificates for at least one full renewal cycle in case you’re audited by the Board.

💰 Fees for RN License Renewal in Ohio

Typical Ohio RN renewal fees include:

• RN renewal fee: $65
• Late processing fee: $50 (added if you renew on or after November 1)

All fees are paid online through the official Ohio eLicense portal at the time you submit your renewal.

🧭 How to Renew Your RN License in Ohio

Most nurses complete rn license renewal ohio entirely online.

1. Go to the Ohio eLicense portal at https://elicense.ohio.gov/.
2. Log in to your existing account or create one if you’ve never used eLicense before.
3. Locate your RN license and click “Renew License”.
4. Answer all renewal questions honestly, including any disciplinary or legal disclosures.
5. Attest that you have completed the required 24 contact hours of CE (including Category A).
6. Submit your application and pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card.
7. Watch your email or eLicense account for confirmation that your license has been renewed.

Processing times can vary, but many renewals are processed within a few business days if there are no issues.

🔍 Ohio RN License Lookup

Need to check the status of your license after renewal?

• Use the official Ohio RN license lookup at https://elicense.ohio.gov/oh_verifylicense.

This tool lets employers and nurses confirm that the license shows as active and lists the correct expiration date.

❗ If Your Ohio RN License Expires or Lapses

If your Ohio RN license is not renewed by the deadline and becomes inactive or lapsed, you cannot practice nursing until it is restored to active status.

Depending on how long it has been expired, you may need to:

• Submit a reinstatement application through eLicense
• Provide additional documentation requested by the Board
• Complete any required CE for reinstatement
• Pay both renewal and reinstatement fees

Always check the Ohio Board of Nursing website for the most current reinstatement rules before you apply.

🔗 Helpful Links

• Ohio Board of Nursing: https://nursing.ohio.gov/
• Ohio eLicense Renewal Portal: https://elicense.ohio.gov/
• CE Requirements for Renewal (Ohio RN): https://nursing.ohio.gov/education-and-practice/education/continuing-education/ce-requirements-for-renewal
• Ohio RN License Lookup: https://elicense.ohio.gov/oh_verifylicense

🔎 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 Ohio – FAQ

How often do I need to renew my RN license in Ohio?

Ohio RN licenses are renewed every two years. The renewal period opens July 1 of odd-numbered years, and the on-time deadline is October 31.

How many CE hours are required for rn license renewal ohio?

You must complete 24 contact hours of continuing education for each renewal cycle. At least 1 of those hours must be Category A, focusing on the Ohio Nurse Practice Act.

Is Category A CE required for every Ohio RN renewal?

Yes. For each renewal cycle, Ohio RNs need at least 1 hour of Category A CE that specifically covers the Ohio Nurse Practice Act.

How much does it cost to renew an Ohio RN license?

The standard renewal fee is $65. If you renew on or after November 1, a $50 late processing fee is typically added.

Can I practice if my Ohio RN license is expired?

No. You cannot practice as an RN in Ohio if your license is expired or lapsed. You must complete renewal or reinstatement and confirm your license is active before returning to work.

How do I verify my RN license status in Ohio?

You can verify your status anytime using the Ohio license lookup tool on the state’s eLicense website. This shows whether your license is active and lists your current expiration date.