If you’re an Ohio nurse scrambling to complete your state CE requirements before the October 31st deadline, you’re not alone. This guide breaks down the essential steps for renewing your Ohio nursing license for RNs or APRNs, covering CE requirements, deadlines, and tips to make the process stress-free.
Ohio RN CE requirements
Ohio RNs must complete 24 contact hours of CE every two years, including at least 1 hour of Category A education. Category A courses focus on the Ohio Nurse Practice Act and must be approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing or by an Ohio Board of Nursing approver. The remaining 23 hours can cover topics aligned with your practice area or professional interests.
Key deadlines and fees for Ohio RNs
- Renewal period opens: July 1st (odd years)
- License expiry: October 31st (odd years)
- Renewal fee: $65 (increases to $115 after September 16th)
Completing your requirements early saves you both time and money, avoiding the higher renewal fee and the last-minute rush.
Simplified CE solutions
The Ohio Nursing CE Requirements Package from Elite Learning bundles all the hours you need, including the mandatory Category A course, in one convenient package. It’s a hassle-free way to meet state requirements while enhancing your clinical knowledge with elective courses on topics like multiple sclerosis, pediatric concussions, and systemic lupus erythematosus.
Ohio APRN CE requirements
APRNs in Ohio face more comprehensive CE requirements. APRNs must maintain both an RN license and an APRN license, requiring separate education hours.
- RN license: 24 hours (including 1 hour of Category A education)
- APRN license: 24 additional hours, including 12 hours of advanced pharmacology. Note: APRNs may use the contact hours they complete for their APRN national certification for their RN licensure, as long as those hours meet the CE requirements specified by the state.
- Remaining hours can focus on advanced practice topics like prescribing practices and medication management.
Key deadlines and fees for Ohio APRNs
- Renewal period opens: July 1st (odd years)
- License expiry: October 31st (odd years)
- Renewal fee: $135 (increases to $185 after September 16th)
Comprehensive APRN CE package
The Ohio Advanced Practice Nurse CE Package from Elite Learning contains 31 hours of CE, including 25 hours of advanced pharmacology. It also includes an 8-hour course that fulfills federal DEA training requirements for APRNs prescribing controlled substances. Additional topics like pain management, substance use disorders, and dermatology provide practical knowledge you can apply immediately.
Why early renewal matters
After September 16th, Ohio’s renewal fees increase significantly. Renewing early avoids these fee increases and helps you avoid license lapses, which can lead to additional fees and complications. Completing your CE early also ensures you’re fully prepared before the October 31st deadline.
CE options for Ohio nurses: Finding the right fit
Ohio nurses have multiple ways to complete CE requirements:
- Individual courses: Flexible but require careful tracking to ensure all requirements are met. Browse individual courses here.
- Comprehensive packages: Bundle all required hours, simplifying the process and often saving money. Explore packages here.
- Membership options: Provide unlimited access to CE courses, ideal for exceeding minimum requirements or pursuing specialty topics. Become a member.
Eliminate the guesswork and complete your Ohio nursing CE quickly and conveniently with these CE options from Elite Learning.
