As a Licensed Practical Nurse, you have to renew your license periodically. This is to make sure that you are informed, and in compliance with an ever-changing set of best practices, regulations, and new techniques. Renewal also ensures that you are actively practicing, and not idling as an HCP. Every state has their own unique renewal requirements, and Pennsylvania is not exempt from this. To prepare you for the renewal cycle, we have provided a comprehensive guide for LPN license renewals in PA.
Figure Out the Renewal Period
LPNs in Pennsylvania are expected to renew their licenses on June 30, every even year. Luckily, you will be sent an email that will notify you about this, in advance. Knowing when your license expires lets you plan your requirements accordingly. This way, you can be prepared right on time, or well in advance.
Fulfill Renewal Requirements
To renew, you need to finish at 30 hours of continuing education. Regardless of where you complete this requirement, the establishment has to be accredited and recognized by Pennsylvania’s Board of Nursing. If not, your time will not be recognized when you apply for licensure renewal. 2 hours of continuing education must be completed via the Child Abuse Recognition and Reporting (Child Abuse CE.) For a complete list of approved Child Abuse courses, refer to the link here.
Apply for online licensure renewal
LPNs in Pennsylvania can now renew their license online, on the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS.) The Board of Nursing has even provided a set of tips for LPN licensure renewal here. For your convenience, we have provided a summary below:
To start, register and log in to the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS.) The Board of Nursing recommends doing so on a desktop/laptop and with the Internet Explorer Browser. Otherwise, you can expect to run into a number of technical problems. The renewal notice sent via st-nurse@pa.gov, before expiration, will contain all your login details. If you cannot find it, check your email’s spam folder or contact the PA Board of Nursing directly.
Do not haphazardly fill your renewal application. Read each question carefully and review your answers before you submit. Once you complete the forms and submit your requirements, all that is left is to pay the renewal fee. At the time of writing, the cost for LPNs sits at $76.00. Note that this is subject to change.
Contact information
Renewal requirements and processes can change at any time. For more information, you can refer to the official Pennsylvania website. If you cannot find your answers there, it is recommended that you contact the Board of Nursing directly, through any one of the following channels:
Mail Address:
State Board of Nursing
P.O. Box 2649
Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649
Phone Number: (717) 783-7142
Fax Number: (717) 783-0822
Email: ST-NURSE@pa.gov
