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CE Requirements

New Jersey Nurse Practitioner Continuing Education Requirements

See required hours, mandatory topics and exceptions for your renewal.

Last researched

Showing findings with official source evidence. Check the conditions for each requirement and confirm your circumstances with the board.

Use the boxes to track your preparation. Checking an item does not verify compliance.

Continuing education

  • APNs are required to complete 30 contact hours of continuing professional education every 2 years.

    Applies when: Active APN renewal in New Jersey

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      13:37-5.3, Advanced Practice Nurses, Registered Nurses (including Forensic Nurses-CSA) and Licensed Practical Nurses are required to complete 30 contact hours of continuing professional education every two years.
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      13:37-5.3, Advanced Practice Nurses, Registered Nurses (including Forensic Nurses-CSA) and Licensed Practical Nurses are required to complete 30 contact hours of continuing professional education every two years.

  • The CE courses must be offered by an approved provider.

    Applies when: For APN renewal CE

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      These courses must be offered by an approved provider.
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      These courses must be offered by an approved provider.

  • First time APNs are not required to complete continuing education.

    Applies when: First-time APNs, including anesthesia specialty former CRNAs

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      First time APNs (including those with anesthesia specialty who were formally CRNAs) are not required to complete continuing education and should answer "yes" to this question.
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      First time APNs (including those with anesthesia specialty who were formally CRNAs) are not required to complete continuing education and should answer "yes" to this question.

  • Inactive status licensees are exempt from the CE requirement.

    Applies when: Inactive APN status

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Inactive status licensees are exempt from the CE requirement, however, compliance with the CE requirements will be necessary in order to make a change from inactive to active status
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Inactive status licensees are exempt from the CE requirement, however, compliance with the CE requirements will be necessary in order to make a change from inactive to active status.

  • The Board recommends retaining CE certificates for at least 5 years.

    Applies when: For CE documentation retention

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      ** The Board recommends that you retain continuing education certificates for at least five years

  • 30 contact hours during the two-year period preceding renewal

    Applies when: APN renewal in New Jersey

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      ** Each licensee must complete a minimum of 30 contact hours of continuing education contact hours during the two-year period preceding renewal
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      For example, in order to renew a license in May 2019, a licensee must have completed 30 contact hours of continuing education contact hours between June 1, 2017 and May 31, 2019.

  • Courses must be offered by an approved provider

    Applies when: CE used for APN renewal credit

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      These courses must be offered by an approved provider.

  • Employer courses are accepted if they carry a credit-hour designation and the employer provides a certificate of successful completion

    Applies when: CE used for APN renewal credit

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      ** The Board will accept courses completed through your employer provided that the courses carry a credit-hour designation, i.e., one contact hour for each 60 minutes of instruction, and the employer provides you with a certificate of successful completion.
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      The employer must be approved by the ANCC.

  • Up to 15 additional continuing education contact hours may carry over into the next renewal period

    Applies when: APN renewal CE

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      ** A licensee may carry over up to 15 additional continuing education contact hours into the next renewal period

  • The Board recommends retaining continuing education certificates for at least five years

    Applies when: APN CE records

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      ** The Board recommends that you retain continuing education certificates for at least five years

  • APNs must complete 30 contact hours of continuing professional education every 2 years.

    Applies when: For APN renewal.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      13:37-5.3, Advanced Practice Nurses, Registered Nurses (including Forensic Nurses-CSA) and Licensed Practical Nurses are required to complete 30 contact hours of continuing professional education every two years.

  • The Board will accept employer courses if they carry a credit-hour designation and the employer provides a certificate of successful completion.

    Applies when: For APN CE credit.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      ** The Board will accept courses completed through your employer provided that the courses carry a credit-hour designation, i.e., one contact hour for each 60 minutes of instruction, and the employer provides you with a certificate of successful completion.

  • Inactive status licensees are exempt from the CE requirement.

    Applies when: For nursing licensees in inactive status.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Inactive status licensees are exempt from the CE requirement, however, compliance with the CE requirements will be necessary in order to make a change from inactive to active status

Required CE topics

  • 30 contact hours in continuing professional education are required for APN prescriptive-authority application if using the CE option, and the hours must be related to the applicant's advanced practice category's scope of practice and include pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles and the use of pharmacological agents.

    Applies when: For APN prescriptive-authority application, not routine renewal

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      The transcript must be submitted directly to the Board from a school duly accredited by any national accrediting agency approved by the Board; or Continuing education program certificate(s) for 30 contact hours in continuing professional education which: Are related to the applicant's advanced practice category's scope of practice; Include pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles and their clinical application; Include the use of pharmacological agents in the prevention
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      pharmacodynamic principles and their clinical application; Include the use of pharmacological agents in the prevention of illness, restoration and maintenance of health; and Are obtained within five (5) years prior to the date of application for prescriptive authority.

  • An APN in New Jersey has prescriptive authority and must have a joint protocol with a collaborating physician licensed in New Jersey before prescribing any medication or device

    Applies when: APN prescriptive authority

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      #### Prescriptive Authority An A.P.N. in New Jersey has prescriptive authority and is required to have a joint protocol with a collaborating physician who is licensed in New Jersey, prior to prescribing any medication or device.

Records and audits

  • The Board recommends retaining continuing education certificates for at least 5 years.

    Applies when: CE documentation retention

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      ** The Board recommends that you retain continuing education certificates for at least five years

  • Retain proof of course completion in the event that the Board requests it for audit purposes.

    Applies when: For APN CE records

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Retain proof of course completion in the event that the Board requests it for audit purposes
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Retain proof of course completion in the event that the Board requests it for audit purposes.

  • Each licensee has a continuing obligation to report to the Board of Nursing any changes in information as required by N.J.A.C.

    Applies when: Board reporting obligations

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      13:37-5.9) Each licensee has a continuing obligation to report to the Board of Nursing any changes in information as required by N.J.A.C.

  • The Advanced Practice Nurse must notify the Board in writing of a change of address no later than 30 days following the change of address.

    Applies when: APN record updates

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      13:37-5.7) The Advanced Practice Nurse must notify the Board in writing of a change of address no later than 30 days following the change of address.

  • Retain proof of course completion for audit purposes

    Applies when: APN CE records

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Retain proof of course completion in the event that the Board requests it for audit purposes

  • The Board recommends retaining continuing education certificates for at least five years

    Applies when: Advisory retention guidance for APN CE records

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      ** The Board recommends that you retain continuing education certificates for at least five years

  • Each licensee has a continuing obligation to report changes in information to the Board

    Applies when: Board reporting obligations

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      13:37-5.9) Each licensee has a continuing obligation to report to the Board of Nursing any changes in information as required by N.J.A.C.

  • The Advanced Practice Nurse must notify the Board in writing of a change of address no later than 30 days following the change

    Applies when: APN record updates

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      13:37-5.7) The Advanced Practice Nurse must notify the Board in writing of a change of address no later than 30 days following the change of address.

  • Retain proof of course completion in the event that the Board requests it for audit purposes.

    Applies when: For APN CE records.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Retain proof of course completion in the event that the Board requests it for audit purposes

  • The Board recommends retaining continuing education certificates for at least five years.

    Applies when: This is advisory, not a binding retention rule.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      ** The Board recommends that you retain continuing education certificates for at least five years

Renewal cycle and due date

  • You will have the opportunity to renew your APN and/or Forensic nursing credential(s) on the Review Group segment of your RN renewal.

    Applies when: When using the NJ Board of Nursing RN renewal flow and the APN credential is active

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      You will have the opportunity to renew your APN and/or Forensic nursing credential(s) on the Review Group segment of your RN renewal.
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      If you have an active APN or Forensic nursing credential and you do not see it in the Review Group segment of your renewal, please contact the Board of Nursing at You will have the opportunity to renew your APN and/or Forensic nursing credential(s) on the Review Group segment of your RN renewal.

  • 30 contact hours every 2 years

    Applies when: APN renewal in New Jersey

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      13:37-5.3, Advanced Practice Nurses, Registered Nurses (including Forensic Nurses-CSA) and Licensed Practical Nurses are required to complete 30 contact hours of continuing professional education every two years.

  • First time APNs are not required to complete continuing education

    Applies when: First-time APNs, including anesthesia specialty former CRNAs

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      First time APNs (including those with anesthesia specialty who were formally CRNAs) are not required to complete continuing education and should answer "yes" to this question.

  • Advanced Practice Nurses must complete 30 contact hours of continuing professional education every 2 years.

    Applies when: For APN renewal in New Jersey.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      13:37-5.3, Advanced Practice Nurses, Registered Nurses (including Forensic Nurses-CSA) and Licensed Practical Nurses are required to complete 30 contact hours of continuing professional education every two years.

  • First time APNs, including those with anesthesia specialty who were formally CRNAs, are not required to complete continuing education.

    Applies when: For first-time APN renewals.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      First time APNs (including those with anesthesia specialty who were formally CRNAs) are not required to complete continuing education and should answer "yes" to this question.

Renewal steps

  • You will have the opportunity to renew your APN credential on the Review Group segment of your RN renewal.

    Applies when: APNs renewing through the RN renewal flow

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      You will have the opportunity to renew your APN and/or Forensic nursing credential(s) on the Review Group segment of your RN renewal.
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      If you have an active APN or Forensic nursing credential and you do not see it in the Review Group segment of your renewal, please contact the Board of Nursing at You will have the opportunity to renew your APN and/or Forensic nursing credential(s) on the Review Group segment of your RN renewal.

  • The Board requests participation in an optional workforce data survey during renewal.

    Applies when: During this year's renewal

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      During this years renewal, the Board requests your participation in an optional workforce data survey.
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Responding to these brief 28 questions is important, as it will provide information that will support the provision of safe and quality nursing care.

  • You will have the opportunity to renew your APN credential on the Review Group segment of your RN renewal

    Applies when: APN renewal flow

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      You will have the opportunity to renew your APN and/or Forensic nursing credential(s) on the Review Group segment of your RN renewal.

  • APNs planning to prescribe controlled dangerous substances also need CDS registration and DEA certification

    Applies when: After APN certification if prescribing controlled dangerous substances

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      D.E.A. and C.D.S.: If you plan to prescribe controlled dangerous substances after you become an A.P.N., C. you will also need C.D.S. registration and D.E.A. certification.
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      C.D.S.: You may go to the C.D.S. website or contact the Drug Control Unit at 973-504-6351 to obtain an application.

  • You will have the opportunity to renew your APN credential on the Review Group segment of your RN renewal.

    Applies when: For APNs renewing through the RN renewal flow.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      You will have the opportunity to renew your APN and/or Forensic nursing credential(s) on the Review Group segment of your RN renewal.

Late, expired or inactive licenses

  • Inactive status licensees are exempt from the CE requirement, however, compliance with the CE requirements will be necessary in order to make a change from inactive to active status.

    Applies when: Inactive APN status

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Inactive status licensees are exempt from the CE requirement, however, compliance with the CE requirements will be necessary in order to make a change from inactive to active status
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Inactive status licensees are exempt from the CE requirement, however, compliance with the CE requirements will be necessary in order to make a change from inactive to active status.

  • Inactive status licensees are exempt from the CE requirement, but compliance is necessary to change from inactive to active status

    Applies when: New Jersey nursing licenses

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Inactive status licensees are exempt from the CE requirement, however, compliance with the CE requirements will be necessary in order to make a change from inactive to active status

Board and official links

  • The New Jersey Board of Nursing certifies advanced practice nurses and regulates nursing in New Jersey.

    Applies when: APN certification and renewal matters

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      # New Jersey Board of Nursing #### Inquiries about the Board may be forwarded to The New Jersey Board of Nursing was established in 1912 to protect the health, safety and welfare of New Jersey's residents by ensuring that those who practice nursing are qualified and competent to do so.
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      This board licenses registered nurses and practical nurses, and regulates the nursing profession in New Jersey.
    3. 3. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      The board certifies advanced practice nurses, sexual assault forensic nurses, and certified homemaker-home health aides.

  • New Jersey certifies clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners and master's prepared certified registered nurse anesthetists as Advanced Practice Nurses.

    Applies when: Board scope for APN certification

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Please note that presently, New Jersey certifies clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners and master's prepared certified registered nurse anesthetists as Advanced Practice Nurses.

  • The Board of Nursing renewal page is the cited official source for APN renewal information.

    Applies when: For official New Jersey nursing renewal information

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      # License Renewals ### New Jersey Board of Nursing Continuing Education (CE): Under N.J.A.C.13:37-7.8 and N.J.A.C.
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Continuing Education (CE): Under N.J.A.C.13:37-7.8 and N.J.A.C.

  • New Jersey Board of Nursing

    Applies when: APN certification and renewal matters

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      # New Jersey Board of Nursing #### Inquiries about the Board may be forwarded to The New Jersey Board of Nursing was established in 1912 to protect the health, safety and welfare of New Jersey's residents by ensuring that those who practice nursing are qualified and competent to do so.
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      This board licenses registered nurses and practical nurses, and regulates the nursing profession in New Jersey.
    3. 3. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      The board certifies advanced practice nurses, sexual assault forensic nurses, and certified homemaker-home health aides.

  • New Jersey certifies clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners, and master's prepared certified registered nurse anesthetists as Advanced Practice Nurses

    Applies when: Board scope for APN certification

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Please note that presently, New Jersey certifies clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners and master's prepared certified registered nurse anesthetists as Advanced Practice Nurses.

  • RenewalApplications@dca.njoag.gov

    Applies when: Listed on the Board page for renewal applications

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Requirements New Jersey Drug Control Unit New Jersey Health Care Profile New Jersey Prescription Blanks Prescription Drug Price Registry Know Your Abortion Rights English | Spanish NJPMP News Contact Email General Information Contact Us Initial Applications InitialApplications@dca.njoag.gov Renewal Applications RenewalApplications@dca.njoag.gov Media Inquiries OAGPress@njoag.gov Call Consumer Service Center Hotline (973) 504-6200 Toll free (NJ only)

  • New Jersey Board of Nursing.

    Applies when: For APN certification and renewal in New Jersey.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      # New Jersey Board of Nursing #### Inquiries about the Board may be forwarded to The New Jersey Board of Nursing was established in 1912 to protect the health, safety and welfare of New Jersey's residents by ensuring that those who practice nursing are qualified and competent to do so.
    2. 2. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      This board licenses registered nurses and practical nurses, and regulates the nursing profession in New Jersey.
    3. 3. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      The board certifies advanced practice nurses, sexual assault forensic nurses, and certified homemaker-home health aides.

  • RenewalApplications@dca.njoag.gov

    Applies when: Listed on the Board page for renewal applications.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. njconsumeraffairs.gov ↗
      Requirements New Jersey Drug Control Unit New Jersey Health Care Profile New Jersey Prescription Blanks Prescription Drug Price Registry Know Your Abortion Rights English | Spanish NJPMP News Contact Email General Information Contact Us Initial Applications InitialApplications@dca.njoag.gov Renewal Applications RenewalApplications@dca.njoag.gov Media Inquiries OAGPress@njoag.gov Call Consumer Service Center Hotline (973) 504-6200 Toll free (NJ only)
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