If you're a Registered Nurse (RN) or a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in the state of Pennsylvania, you play a vital role in caring for nearly 13 million residents. As an integral part of the healthcare workforce, it's crucial to adhere to the guidelines that govern your practice, including the mandatory PA nursing license renewal process. In this guide, we'll walk you through the three essential steps for renewing your nursing license in the Keystone State, ensuring you can continue delivering exceptional care to your patients.
Pennsylvania Nursing Facts
Before delving into the renewal process, let's explore some key facts about nursing in Pennsylvania and address common queries.
Is Pennsylvania part of the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC)?
Yes. As of September 2023, Pennsylvania has officially joined the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC).
Average Nursing Salaries in Pennsylvania
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): $36,400 per year.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): $54,520 per year.
Registered Nurse (RN): $80,630 per year.
Contact Information for the State Board of Nursing
Phone Numbers: (833) 367-2762; (717) 783-7142
Website: Pennsylvania Board of Nursing
Address: 2525 N. 7th Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649
How to Renew Your Nursing License in PA
The following steps apply to both RNs and LPNs in Pennsylvania. It's important to note that there is a separate process for those seeking licensure by endorsement, and nurse aides from other states must complete a reciprocity application for consideration in the Pennsylvania nurse aide registry.
Determine Your Renewal Deadline
Receive a renewal notice every other year, reminding you to renew your PA nursing license. RN licenses expire on either April 30 or October 31 every two years, while LPNs should check their license expiration date. Renewal applications are typically available 30 to 60 days before the expiration date. Nurse aides receive notifications approximately 90 days before their expiration date. Consider creating a CNA365 online account for timely reminders.
Complete Continuing Education Requirements
For RNs, Pennsylvania mandates 30 hours of approved continuing education every two years, with two hours dedicated to child abuse recognition and reporting. LPNs have no additional continuing education requirements apart from the child abuse recognition and reporting biennial training. Nurse aides must have worked for pay for eight consecutive hours in the previous 24 months for registry renewal.
File Your PA Nursing License Renewal
Visit the Pennsylvania Licensing System site (PALS) to begin the renewal process. Sign in, select your license, fill out the application, and upload necessary documents. Submit payment for renewal fees ($122 for RNs, $76 for LPNs). Monitor your email and the PALS site for updates, and expect your paper license in the mail within 10 to 14 days.
For nurse aides, complete a renewal application online via the Credentia website.
Great Areas in Pennsylvania for Nursing Jobs
With your renewed nursing license, explore top areas in Pennsylvania for nursing jobs, including CNA, LPN, and RN jobs in Allentown, Norristown, Philadelphia, and Easton.
Find Top Pennsylvania Nursing Jobs
As soon as your PA nursing license renewal is complete, explore nursing job opportunities in Pennsylvania with Caring Staff. Discover positions that match your needs and embark on the next phase of your nursing career.