Colorado Nurse Licensing Guide

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Colorado Nurse License Overview

eNLC:

Yes

Walk-Through:

Temp License:

Nursys:

Yes

(303) 894-2430

Endorsement Application: $90.00

Fingerprinting fee: $6.50 and up

Fees are the same for RN and LPN licenses.

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Approximately 8 weeks after receipt of all required documents.

Renewal cadence: All Registered Nurse licenses expire on September 30 of odd- or even-numbered years and are dependent upon the issuance date. All Practical Nurse licenses expire on August 31 of even-numbered years.
Renewal fee: $108.00
Required contact hours: None
If you are issued a license within 120 days of the upcoming renewal expiration date, you will be issued a license with the subsequent expiration date.
Online license renewal does not open until approximately 4-6 weeks prior to your expiration date.

State guidelines mandate that all applications expire one year from the date of submission. Failure to provide all required documents will result in your application expiring and will require you to file a new application with all newly submitted documents and a new fee.
The Colorado Board of Nursing asks that you have all supporting licensure documentation, including fingerprints, background checks, and other documentation, before beginning an application. An incomplete application will cause a delay in processing. Requirements are listed below.
Colorado did begin to allow temporary nursing licenses during the COVID-19 pandemic, but temporary licenses are not currently being issued. Please check the CO Board of Nursing website or contact the nursing board for more information on the availability of temporary licenses.
Click here for the Colorado Board of Nursing’s FAQs.

Submit an application online and pay the fee. The process is the same for RNs and LPNs. Click here for the RN checklist, and click here for the LPN checklist. In addition, the following requirements are needed at the time of application.
Provide a valid United States Social Security Number. If you don’t have an SSN, you will need to complete this SSN Affidavit form and submit it to the Board.
Request verification of licensure via Nursys from your original state of licensure and from all other states or countries where you have held a license. If these states do not participate in Nursys, you will need to contact that state's BON and request verification be sent to the Colardo BON via the Verification of License form.
Submit a fingerprint and background check.
Submit payment of the required application fee via credit card. All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Supply information detailing your nursing degree education.
Provide information regarding other healthcare licenses you may have held.
Provide license verification information.
Upload name change documentation, if applicable.
Declare your primary state of residence.
Answer general and criminal history screening questions and upload supporting documentation.
Complete the Healthcare Professions Profile, including uploading supporting documentation.
Provide the dates of your initial licensing exam.