Skip to main content
← Change my selections

Restore My License

California Registered Nurse Reinstatement and reactivation

Explore late renewal, reinstatement and return-to-practice steps.

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.

Which return-to-practice route applies

  • An inactive RN may move to active status by submitting 30 hours of CE completed within the past 2 years, certifying fingerprint compliance, and reporting discipline/convictions.

    Applies when: For an inactive California RN license seeking active status.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      ### Inactive to Active License Status To change a license from inactive to active status, the licensee must submit proof of 30 hours of continuing education completed within the past two years, certify compliance with the fingerprint requirement, and report any license discipline/convictions.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      To change a license from inactive to active status, the licensee must submit proof of 30 hours of continuing education completed within the past two years, certify compliance with the fingerprint requirement, and report any license discipline/convictions.

  • If a California RN license has been expired less than 8 years, the RN must submit the delinquent renewal fee and proof of 30 hours of CE completed within the prior 2 years.

    Applies when: For a California RN license expired less than 8 years.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If, at a later date, the RN chooses to return to nursing and it has been less than eight years since the license expired, the RN will be required to submit the appropriate delinquent renewal fee, and proof of 30 hours of continuing education completed within the prior two-year period.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If, at a later date, the RN chooses to return to nursing and it has been less than eight years since the license expired, the RN will be required to submit the appropriate delinquent renewal fee, and proof of 30 hours of continuing education completed within the prior two-year period

  • If a California RN license has been expired longer than 8 years, the RN must submit the delinquent renewal fee, 30 hours of CE, and proof of competency by an active RN license elsewhere or by retaking the licensing exam.

    Applies when: For a California RN license expired 8 years or more.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If the license has been lapsed longer than eight years, the RN must submit the delinquent renewal fee, 30 hours of continuing education, and proof of competency to practice by either verification of a current active license in another state or U.S. territory, or by retaking the licensing exam.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If the license has been lapsed longer than eight years, the RN must submit the delinquent renewal fee, 30 hours of continuing education, and proof of competency to practice by either verification of a current active license in another state or U.S. territory, or by retaking the licensing exam

  • A person seeking reinstatement of a revoked or surrendered California RN license must petition the Board, and reinstatement may include probation terms and possible NCLEX retake.

    Applies when: For reinstatement after revocation or surrender.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      8/18) **TO:** Petitioners for Reinstatement of License or Reduction of Penalty **FROM:** Board of Registered Nursing – Decisions and Appeals Unit **SUBJECT:** Process for Filing a Petition Persons who wish to have their registered nurse licenses reinstated or who wish to have a reduction of Board-imposed penalties must petition the Board of Registered Nursing.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If the you are granted reinstatement, the license is usually placed on probation with terms and conditions
    3. 3. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If your license has been revoked/surrendered or delinquent for eight years or more, Board regulation requires that you re-take and pass the NCLEX examination.

  • An inactive RN may reactivate to active status by submitting 30 hours of CE completed within the past 2 years, certifying fingerprint compliance, and reporting discipline or convictions.

    Applies when: For an inactive California RN license seeking active status.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      ### Inactive to Active License Status To change a license from inactive to active status, the licensee must submit proof of 30 hours of continuing education completed within the past two years, certify compliance with the fingerprint requirement, and report any license discipline/convictions.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      To change a license from inactive to active status, the licensee must submit proof of 30 hours of continuing education completed within the past two years, certify compliance with the fingerprint requirement, and report any license discipline/convictions.

  • If a California RN license has been expired less than 8 years, renewal requires the delinquent renewal fee and proof of 30 hours of CE completed within the prior 2 years.

    Applies when: For a California RN license expired less than 8 years.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If, at a later date, the RN chooses to return to nursing and it has been less than eight years since the license expired, the RN will be required to submit the appropriate delinquent renewal fee, and proof of 30 hours of continuing education completed within the prior two-year period.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If, at a later date, the RN chooses to return to nursing and it has been less than eight years since the license expired, the RN will be required to submit the appropriate delinquent renewal fee, and proof of 30 hours of continuing education completed within the prior two-year period

  • If a California RN license has been expired longer than 8 years, renewal requires the delinquent renewal fee, 30 hours of CE, and proof of competency by an active RN license elsewhere or by retaking the licensing exam.

    Applies when: For a California RN license expired 8 years or more.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If the license has been lapsed longer than eight years, the RN must submit the delinquent renewal fee, 30 hours of continuing education, and proof of competency to practice by either verification of a current active license in another state or U.S. territory, or by retaking the licensing exam.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If the license has been lapsed longer than eight years, the RN must submit the delinquent renewal fee, 30 hours of continuing education, and proof of competency to practice by either verification of a current active license in another state or U.S. territory, or by retaking the licensing exam

  • An inactive RN may move to active status by submitting 30 hours of CE within the past 2 years, fingerprint compliance, and discipline/conviction reporting.

    Applies when: License is inactive and active status is sought

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      ### Inactive to Active License Status To change a license from inactive to active status, the licensee must submit proof of 30 hours of continuing education completed within the past two years, certify compliance with the fingerprint requirement, and report any license discipline/convictions.

  • If less than 8 years have passed since expiration, the RN must submit the delinquent renewal fee and proof of 30 hours of CE completed within the prior 2-year period.

    Applies when: License expired less than 8 years ago

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If, at a later date, the RN chooses to return to nursing and it has been less than eight years since the license expired, the RN will be required to submit the appropriate delinquent renewal fee, and proof of 30 hours of continuing education completed within the prior two-year period.

  • If the license has been lapsed longer than 8 years, the RN must submit the delinquent renewal fee, 30 hours of CE, and proof of competency by active RN licensure elsewhere or by retaking the licensing exam.

    Applies when: License expired 8 years or more and active licensure elsewhere may or may not exist

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If the license has been lapsed longer than eight years, the RN must submit the delinquent renewal fee, 30 hours of continuing education, and proof of competency to practice by either verification of a current active license in another state or U.S. territory, or by retaking the licensing exam.

  • A person seeking reinstatement of a revoked or surrendered California RN license must petition the Board of Registered Nursing, and reinstatement may include probation terms and possible NCLEX retake.

    Applies when: For reinstatement after revocation or surrender.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      8/18) **TO:** Petitioners for Reinstatement of License or Reduction of Penalty **FROM:** Board of Registered Nursing – Decisions and Appeals Unit **SUBJECT:** Process for Filing a Petition Persons who wish to have their registered nurse licenses reinstated or who wish to have a reduction of Board-imposed penalties must petition the Board of Registered Nursing.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If the you are granted reinstatement, the license is usually placed on probation with terms and conditions
    3. 3. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If your license has been revoked/surrendered or delinquent for eight years or more, Board regulation requires that you re-take and pass the NCLEX examination.

Can I practice while waiting?

  • A nurse may work pending renewal only if the renewal fee was submitted timely and all renewal requirements have been met.

    Applies when: After timely submission and before license receipt.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Business and Professions Code, Section 121 provides that a nurse may work pending license renewal providing the renewal fee has been submitted timely and all renewal requirements have been met.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Legality of Practice Between Renewal and Receipt of License Business and Professions Code, Section 121 provides that a nurse may work pending license renewal providing the renewal fee has been submitted timely and all renewal requirements have been met.

  • An RN cannot practice in California with an inactive or expired license.

    Applies when: While the license is inactive or expired.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      A licensee cannot practice as a registered nurse in California with an inactive license.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      A licensee cannot practice in California with an expired license.

  • An RN may work pending renewal only if the renewal fee was submitted timely and all renewal requirements have been met.

    Applies when: After timely submission and before license receipt.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Business and Professions Code, Section 121 provides that a nurse may work pending license renewal providing the renewal fee has been submitted timely and all renewal requirements have been met.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Legality of Practice Between Renewal and Receipt of License Business and Professions Code, Section 121 provides that a nurse may work pending license renewal providing the renewal fee has been submitted timely and all renewal requirements have been met.

  • A retired licensee shall not engage in any activity that requires an active registered nurse or advanced practice registered nurse license.

    Applies when: For retired RN licenses.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      A retired licensee shall not engage in any activity that requires an active registered nurse or advanced practice registered nurse license.

  • Practice as a registered nurse in California is not permitted with either a delinquent or inactive license.

    Applies when: License is inactive or delinquent

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Practice as a registered nurse in California is not permitted with either a delinquent or inactive license.

  • A nurse may work pending license renewal if the renewal fee was submitted timely and all renewal requirements were met.

    Applies when: Renewal fee was submitted timely and all renewal requirements were met

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Business and Professions Code, Section 121 provides that a nurse may work pending license renewal providing the renewal fee has been submitted timely and all renewal requirements have been met.

  • California says an RN cannot practice with an expired license.

    Applies when: License is expired

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      A licensee cannot practice in California with an expired license.

CE and return-to-practice education

  • The Board says inactive RNs can update skills through hospital nurse re-entry programs or RN refresher courses.

    Applies when: Informational resource for inactive RN return to work.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      To update your skills, many hospitals provide nurse re-entry programs.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Another alternative is to check our list of RN Refresher Courses.

  • To maintain an active California RN license, 30 contact hours of continuing education are required and the courses must be taken through a Board-recognized provider.

    Applies when: For active RN renewal.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Continuing Education All RNs in the State of California who wish to maintain an active license are required to complete 30 contact hours of continuing education for license renewal.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      The continuing education course(s) must be taken through a continuing education provider recognized by the Board.

  • To change from inactive to active, the licensee must submit proof of 30 hours of CE completed within the past 2 years.

    Applies when: For inactive-to-active California RN status changes.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      ### Inactive to Active License Status To change a license from inactive to active status, the licensee must submit proof of 30 hours of continuing education completed within the past two years, certify compliance with the fingerprint requirement, and report any license discipline/convictions.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      To activate an inactive license, the licensee must submit a written request and evidence of 30 hours of approved continuing education taken during the two-year period immediately preceding the request for activation.

  • For a lapsed RN license renewed under the 8-year route, proof of 30 hours of Board-approved CE completed within the past 2 years is required.

    Applies when: For 8-year renewal of a lapsed California RN license.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      CLICK TO DOWNLOAD APPLICATION PACKET All applicants must download the 8-Year Renewal Application Packet and provide the following items: Appropriate fees (Page 2) Completed "Application for Reinstatement of a Lapsed License - 8-Year Renewal" (Page 8) Proof of completion of 30 hours of Board-approved continuing education completed within the past two years (certificates are required) (Page 3) Completed fingerprints using either Live Scan or fingerprint card (Hard Card)
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Proof of **completion of 30 hours of BRN approved Continuing Education** (taken within the last two years).

  • During the first 2 years immediately following initial licensure, the CE requirements are exempt except for the Implicit Bias requirement.

    Applies when: For the first 2 years after initial licensure in California or another jurisdiction.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      During the first two years immediately following initial licensure in California or other jurisdictions, licensees shall be exempt from completion of the continuing education requirements specified in Title 16, California Code of Regulations Section 1451, with the exception of the Implicit Bias requirement.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      NOTE: During the first two years immediately following initial licensure in California or other jurisdictions, licensees shall be exempt from completion of the continuing education requirements specified in Title 16, California Code of Regulations Section 1451, with the exception of the Implicit Bias requirement.

  • To maintain an active California RN license, 30 contact hours of CE are required through a Board-recognized provider.

    Applies when: Active RN renewal

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      All RNs in the State of California who wish to maintain an active license are required to complete 30 contact hours of continuing education for license renewal. The continuing education course(s) must be taken through a continuing education provider recognized by the Board.

  • Changing inactive to active status requires proof of 30 hours of CE completed within the past 2 years.

    Applies when: Changing inactive to active status

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      To change a license from inactive to active status, the licensee must submit proof of 30 hours of continuing education completed within the past two years

  • For a license lapsed longer than 8 years, the RN must also show proof of competency by current active RN licensure elsewhere or retaking the licensing exam.

    Applies when: License lapsed longer than 8 years

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If the license has been lapsed longer than eight years, the RN must submit the delinquent renewal fee, 30 hours of continuing education, and proof of competency to practice by either verification of a current active license in another state or U.S. territory, or by retaking the licensing exam.

  • During the first 2 years immediately following initial licensure, the CE requirements are exempt except for Implicit Bias.

    Applies when: First 2 years immediately following initial licensure

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      During the first two years immediately following initial licensure in California or other jurisdictions, licensees shall be exempt from completion of the continuing education requirements specified in Title 16, California Code of Regulations Section 1451, with the exception of the Implicit Bias requirement.

Application and documents

  • For 8-year renewal, applicants must submit the application, fees, CE certificates, fingerprints, discipline/conviction certification with explanations if applicable, and verification of license.

    Applies when: For 8-year lapsed RN reinstatement.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      CLICK TO DOWNLOAD APPLICATION PACKET All applicants must download the 8-Year Renewal Application Packet and provide the following items: Appropriate fees (Page 2) Completed "Application for Reinstatement of a Lapsed License - 8-Year Renewal" (Page 8) Proof of completion of 30 hours of Board-approved continuing education completed within the past two years (certificates are required) (Page 3) Completed fingerprints using either Live Scan or fingerprint card (Hard Card)
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      (certificates are required) (Page 3) Completed fingerprints using either Live Scan or fingerprint card (Hard Card) processing method (Pages 3-5) License Discipline and/or Convictions certification and, if applicable, documents and/or letters explaining prior convictions or disciplinary action as directed in "Section III.
    3. 3. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Reporting License Discipline and/or Convictions" (Page 5) Completed "Verification of License" form or Nursys® Verification Application if your board of nursing participates in Nursys® (Page 9) ### Advanced Practice Certificate Renewal The following certificates require additional renewal fees: Nurse Anesthetist (NA) Nurse-Midwife/Furnishing (NMW/NMF) Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Nurse Practitioner/Furnishing (NP/NPF) Renewal fees for the certificates listed above are due

  • The renewal and reinstatement forms require disclosure of license discipline or convictions since the last renewal, with supporting documents if applicable.

    Applies when: When discipline or convictions exist.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Reporting Discipline/Convictions Upon renewal of a registered nurse license, the Board requires licensees to indicate if they have had any license disciplined by a government agency or other disciplinary body; or, have been convicted of any crime in any state or U.S. territory, military court or other country since they last renewed their license.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      A detailed written explanation describing the circumstances and events that led to your license discipline, arrest(s) and conviction(s).
    3. 3. rn.ca.gov ↗
      III. REPORTING LICENSE DISCIPLINE AND/OR CONVICTIONS Check the box next to “YES” if since your last renewal, you have had a license disciplined by a government agency or other disciplinary body, or if you have been convicted of any crime.

  • The application requires a U.S. Social Security Number or ITIN, and failure to disclose means the renewal or reinstatement application will not be processed.

    Applies when: For renewal or reinstatement applications using the packet.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Social Security Number or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) is mandatory.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Social Security Number or ITIN, your application for initial or renewal license will not be processed and you will be reported to the Franchise Tax Board, which may assess a $100 penalty against you.
    3. 3. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Social Security Number or ITIN, your application for initial or renewal license will not be processed.

Fees

  • The Registered Nurse 8-Year Renewal fee is $350.

    Applies when: Applying for 8-Year Renewal.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Registered Nurse 8-Year Renewal | N/A | $350
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      “FINGERPRINT CARD” APPLICATION PROCESS Renewal Application Fee $350.00* One Fingerprint Card $49.00 TOTAL FEE: $399.00 *Fee includes $90 penalty fee for failure to timely renew a license.

  • Live Scan fees are paid at the Live Scan site and vary; the Board says not to send that processing fee to the Board.

    Applies when: If Live Scan is used.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      When using the Live Scan process, the fingerprint processing fee must be paid at the Live Scan site when you provide your live scan fingerprints.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Processing Fee for Live Scan Service: The fee for the Live Scan service varies, so please contact the Live Scan site directly to obtain the correct information.
    3. 3. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Do not send your fingerprint processing fee to the Board.

  • The RN 8-Year Renewal fee is $350.

    Applies when: Applying for 8-Year Renewal.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Registered Nurse 8-Year Renewal | N/A | $350
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      “FINGERPRINT CARD” APPLICATION PROCESS Renewal Application Fee $350.00* One Fingerprint Card $49.00 TOTAL FEE: $399.00 *Fee includes $90 penalty fee for failure to timely renew a license.

  • Manual fingerprint card processing is $49.

    Applies when: Using manual fingerprint card processing.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Manual Fingerprint Card Processing (DOJ and FBI) | | $49
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      # Applicant Fingerprint Information ### 2) Manual Fingerprints (Hard Card – FD-258) - A **$49 hard card processing fee** must be paid to the BRN. - If you applied through BreEZe, the total $399 fee ($350 Licensure by Endorsement Fee plus $49 DOJ hard card processing) includes the $49 hard card fee. - If not already paid, submit payment through BreEZe under “Hard Card Fingerprint Payment,” or mail a check/money order payable to the "California Board of Registered Nursing."

  • All fees are non-refundable.

    Applies when: For the packet fees.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      ALL FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      **ALL FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE**.

  • Live Scan fees are paid at the Live Scan site and are in addition to the Board fee; the site fee varies.

    Applies when: If Live Scan is used.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      When using the Live Scan process, the fingerprint processing fee must be paid at the Live Scan site when you provide your live scan fingerprints.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Processing Fee for Live Scan Service: The fee for the Live Scan service varies, so please contact the Live Scan site directly to obtain the correct information.
    3. 3. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Please be aware that these processing fees are in addition to the “rolling” fee charged by the Live Scan operator.

  • The other state board may require a processing fee, and Nursys applicants pay by credit card.

    Applies when: If verification is requested through another board or Nursys.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Be sure to include the process fee that is required by that state.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      OR Method 2 – Nursys® Verification Request Application If you are licensed as an RN in a state that is a member of the Nursys® verification system, visit www.nursys.com to complete the online verification request application process.

  • The 8-Year Renewal fee is $350.

    Applies when: Applying for 8-Year Renewal

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Registered Nurse 8-Year Renewal | N/A | $350

  • Registered Nurse Renewal is $190 timely and $280 delinquent.

    Applies when: Renewing an RN license.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Registered Nurse Renewal | $190 | $280
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      | Description | Fee Amount / Timely | Fee Amount / Delinquent | | --- | --- | --- | | Registered Nurse Renewal | $190 | $280 | | Registered Nurse 8-Year Renewal | N/A | $350 | | Nurse Anesthetist Renewal | $150 | $225 | | Nurse-Midwife Renewal | $150 | $225 | | Nurse-Midwife Furnishing Number Renewal \*\*See Alert | $180 | $255 | | Clinical Nurse Specialist Renewal | $150 | $225 | | Nurse Practitioner Renewal | $150 | $225 | | Nurse Practitioner Furnishing Number Renewal

  • Manual fingerprint card processing is $49.

    Applies when: Using manual fingerprint card processing

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Manual Fingerprint Card Processing (DOJ and FBI) | | $49

Published processing times

  • RN licenses may not be renewed earlier than 3 months before expiration.

    Applies when: For California RN renewal timing.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Licensees may not renew earlier than three months prior to the expiration date of their license.

  • Online inactive-to-active requests are processed within 72 hours if all required information is submitted.

    Applies when: For online inactive-to-active status changes.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Online requests are processed within 72 hours if all required information is submitted with the request.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Weeks | August 1-15, 2026 | | Inactive to Active Status | Online - Within 72 Hours | August 1-15, 2026 | | Inactive to Active Status | By Mail - 2-4 Weeks | August 1-15, 2026 | | Duplicate Certificate | Online - 1-2 Weeks | August 16-31, 2026 | | Duplicate Certificate | By Mail - 2-4 Weeks | August 16-31, 2026 | | Continuing Education Provider Application | 8-12 Weeks | August 1-15, 2026 |

  • Email inactive-to-active requests can take 2-4 weeks if all required information is submitted.

    Applies when: For email inactive-to-active status changes.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Email requests processing can take 2-4 weeks if all required information is submitted with the request.

  • The Processing Times page lists 8-Year Renewal at 4-6 weeks.

    Applies when: For 8-year renewal applications.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      8-Year Renewal | 4-6 Weeks
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      ### Licensees | Item Requested | Target Timeframe | Currently Processing Items Received: (Updated 8/20/2026) | | --- | --- | --- | | License & Certificate Renewal | Online - Within 72 Hours\* | August 16-31, 2026 | | License & Certificate Renewal | By Mail - 6-8 Weeks | June 1-15, 2026 | | 8-Year Renewal | 4-6 Weeks | August 1-15, 2026 | | Name Change | 2-4 Weeks | August 1-15, 2026 | | Inactive to Active Status | Online - Within 72 Hours | August 1-15, 2026 | | Inactive to

  • The Board directs applicants to its Processing Times page for current timeframes.

    Applies when: For official timing references.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      See our Processing Times page for current timeframes.

  • Online requests are processed within 72 hours if all required information is submitted.

    Applies when: Online submission with complete information

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Online requests are processed within 72 hours if all required information is submitted with the request.

  • 8-Year Renewal is listed at 4-6 weeks.

    Applies when: 8-Year Renewal application

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      8-Year Renewal | 4-6 Weeks

  • Renewal notices are mailed approximately 3 months before expiration as a courtesy.

    Applies when: Routine renewal notices

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      As a courtesy, renewal notices are mailed out approximately three months prior to the expiration date of the license.

Board and official links

  • RN renewal and inactive-to-active requests are handled through BreEZe Online Services.

    Applies when: For RN renewal-related online submissions.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      The only way to renew your license is online via BreEZe Online Services.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      ### Renewal Instructions Licensees may renew their RN license online through BreEZe Online Services.
    3. 3. rn.ca.gov ↗
      There are two ways to complete this process: Online via BreEZe: Log into your BreEZe account to select "Inactive to Active" request.

  • The BRN license verification page provides primary-source RN license status and links to disciplinary documents.

    Applies when: For checking RN license status or public disciplinary documents.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Home Online Services License Verification # License Verification To check the most recent information available regarding an RN license or to view public documents regarding any actions taken, please check the individual's license status through the DCA License Search page.The license information provided through this search page is primary source data from the Board of Registered Nursing licensing system called BreEZe.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      A link to any available disciplinary documents will be listed below an individual's license status.
    3. 3. rn.ca.gov ↗
      If the documents are not available for a discipline related matter, you may contact the Board's Enforcement Program.

  • California Board of Registered Nursing.

    Applies when: For RN reinstatement and renewal in California.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      **Street** Address for overnight or in-person delivery: Board of Registered Nursing 1747 North Market Blvd., Suite 150 Sacramento, CA 95834 **Web Site**: **www.rn.ca.gov** The Nursing Practice Act (NPA) is available on the Board’s web site.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Agency Name: BOARD OF REGISTERED NURSING Title of official responsible for information maintenance: EXECUTIVE OFFICER Address: Telephone Number: P.O.

  • RN renewal and inactive-to-active requests are handled through BreEZe Online Services.

    Applies when: For RN renewal and some status changes.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      The only way to renew your license is online via BreEZe Online Services.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      ### Renewal Instructions Licensees may renew their RN license online through BreEZe Online Services.
    3. 3. rn.ca.gov ↗
      There are two ways to complete this process: Online via BreEZe: Log into your BreEZe account to select "Inactive to Active" request.

  • The License/Certificate Renewal page contains the inactive-to-active and 8-year renewal instructions.

    Applies when: For California RN restoration guidance.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Home Licensees Renewal # License/Certificate Renewal General Information License Status Options Renewal Requirements Fingerprints Renewal Instructions Inactive to Active License Status Reinstatement of a Lapsed License (8-Year Renewal) Advanced Practice Certificate Renewal Continuing Education Provider (CEP) Number Renewal ### General Information Renewal Cycle Your first California RN license is issued for two birthdays, not two years, and will expire the last day of the
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      ### Reinstatement of a Lapsed RN License (8-Year Renewal) If you once held a permanent California RN license that has been expired for eight years or longer and would like to renew to active status, you may do so if you meet the following requirements: Have once held a permanent registered nurse license in California (a temporary license does not qualify) that has been lapsed for eight years or longer.

  • The Board’s Processing Times page is the current timing reference for RN applications.

    Applies when: For official processing-time references.

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      # Processing Times For the week of **August 17, 2026**, we are processing initial applications received during the dates noted below.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Home Processing Times # Processing Times The processing times below are provided as a general guideline.
    3. 3. rn.ca.gov ↗
      The timeframes shown below reflect the current, average timeframes the Board is working within.

  • California Board of Registered Nursing handles RN renewal and reinstatement materials.

    Applies when: California RN license restoration or renewal

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Persons who wish to have their registered nurse licenses reinstated or who wish to have a reduction of Board-imposed penalties must petition the Board of Registered Nursing.

  • The Board’s mailing address is 1747 North Market Blvd., Suite 150, Sacramento, CA 95834.

    Applies when: Sending Board materials by mail or overnight delivery

    Source evidence
    1. 1. rn.ca.gov ↗
      **Street** Address for overnight or in-person delivery: Board of Registered Nursing 1747 North Market Blvd., Suite 150 Sacramento, CA 95834 **Web Site**: **www.rn.ca.gov** The Nursing Practice Act (NPA) is available on the Board’s web site.
    2. 2. rn.ca.gov ↗
      Board of Registered Nursing 1747 North Market Blvd., Suite 150 Sacramento, CA 95834
Text us