healthcare

A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Ohio

Goodwork author

02 May 2025 — 3 min read

🩺 How to Obtain an Ohio Nursing License

1. Licensure by Examination (For New Graduates)

Step 1: Complete an Approved Nursing Program

Enroll in and graduate from an accredited nursing program, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or an Accelerated BSN program.

Step 2: Apply for Licensure

Create an account on the Ohio eLicense portal and submit the "Application for Licensure by Examination." The application fee is $75. Apply within 60 days before completing your nursing program.

Step 3: Register for the NCLEX

Register with Pearson VUE for the NCLEX-RN exam. The registration fee is $200. Ensure registration aligns with your anticipated graduation date.

Step 4: Submit Transcripts

Ohio Graduates: Your program will send a Program Completion Letter directly to the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Out-of-State Graduates: Request your official transcripts be sent directly to the Board, including your diploma and completion date.

Step 5: Complete a Criminal Background Check

Undergo both BCI (civilian) and FBI background checks at least 60 days before program completion. Use the Webcheck system for in-state fingerprinting. Out-of-state applicants should obtain ink fingerprint cards and submit them to the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation with a $47.25 fee.

Step 6: Take the NCLEX

Once all requirements are met, you'll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) from Pearson VUE. Schedule and pass the NCLEX-RN to obtain your Ohio nursing license. If unsuccessful, you may retake the exam after 45 days, with no limit on attempts.Vivian Health

2. Licensure by Endorsement (For Nurses Licensed in Another State)

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

Ensure your current nursing license is active and in good standing.

Step 2: Apply for Licensure

Submit the "Licensure by Endorsement" application via the Ohio eLicense portal. The application fee is $75.

Step 3: Provide Verification

NURSYS States: Request electronic verification through NURSYS.
Non-NURSYS States: Contact your state board to send verification directly to the Ohio Board of Nursing.RN Mobility

Step 4: Submit Education and CE Documentation

Provide proof of completing an approved nursing education program. Additionally, complete two contact hours of Category A continuing education related to the Ohio Nurse Practice Act.Vivian Health IntelyCare+1Elite Learning+1

Step 5: Complete a Criminal Background Check

Follow the same background check procedures as outlined for new graduates.

Temporary Permit

You may be eligible for a 180-day temporary permit to practice while your endorsement application is processed.

🔄 Renewing Your Ohio Nursing License

Renewal Period

RNs and APRNs: Renewal opens on July 1 of odd-numbered years.
Early Renewal Deadline: September 15, 2025.
Final Renewal Deadline: October 31, 2025.RN Mobility Nursing CE Central

Renewal Fees

RNs:
- $65 if renewed by September 15, 2025.
- $115 if renewed between September 16 and October 31, 2025.
APRNs:
- $135 if renewed by September 15, 2025.
- $185 if renewed between September 16 and October 31, 2025.

Continuing Education Requirements

RNs: 24 contact hours every two years, including 1 hour of Category A (Ohio Nurse Practice Act).
APRNs: An additional 24 contact hours, with 12 hours in advanced pharmacology.Elite Learning

Ensure all CE is completed between November 1, 2023, and October 31, 2025. Maintain records for six years in case of an audit.Nursing CE Central+3Premierece+3Ohio Nursing Board+3 Nursing CE Central

Renewal Process

Renew your license through the Ohio eLicense portal. You'll attest to completing CE requirements during the renewal process.Ohio Nursing Board

Late Renewal

If you miss the October 31 deadline, your license will lapse. You'll need to apply for reinstatement and may be subject to additional fees and requirements.Nursing CE Central+1IntelyCare+1

🌐 Ohio and the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)

As of January 1, 2023, Ohio is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. This allows nurses with a multistate license to practice in other compact states without obtaining additional licenses. Ensure your primary state of residence is Ohio to be eligible for a multistate license.