How To Save Money In Reinstating Nurse Certification?

Answer 1

Every state requires that workers in the medical field who receive formal training carry a license. Licenses are given on the condition that the holder will continue their education through seminars and classes throughout the year. Proof of continuing education units, also called CEUs, is required for renewal. Nursing licenses must renewed after a set amount of years. Time frames change from one state to the next and regulations are subject to change. If a nurse fails to file a renewal before the deadline of the license’s expiration, the license will lapse and must be reinstated.

To obtain a reinstatement of the license, a test is required in many states. This may be waived if the lapse was recent. Nurses who have exited the profession for several years and return afterward are usually subject to a test. In some states, catching up on continuing education is also required. To save money on this, there are some seminars and classes that may be attended for free or very low prices. Each state has a nurse’s association. Contact the state association and inquire about continuing education credits that are offered at low costs. Without these, it may be necessary to take classes from a community college, which could be much more costly.

The reinstatement test is similar to the state board exams, but will not be as difficult for an experienced nurse. Studying is still recommended to ensure the test is passed. In states that require a test for reinstatement, find a study guide online. There are several sites that give free guide questions for the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN tests. Study these guides, as the questions on the test will be relevant to current information. Nurses who received their education many years prior to reinstatement should especially study the latest guides to be current on any new or changed information.

The fee for reinstatement is not a fee that can be waived. Usually the price is between $100 and $200 on average. After receiving reinstatement, be sure the licensing board always has current personal contact information and be aware of license expiration dates. Renewing in advance will prevent the need for reinstatement.