Search Cateogry: Nursing

 

We’re thrilled to announce that on April 1, 2026, the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL) will continue transitioning from 2-year licenses that expire in a set month to 2-year licenses that renew on the licensees’ birthdates*! This change is designed to ease the burden of bulk renewals, giving you more time to focus on what matters most — your profession.

Here’s what you need to know about the transition:

Beginning April 1, 2026; The Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL) begins transitioning to 2-year licenses that expire on the licensee’s birthday.

Those currently licensed will be distributed based on date of birth and birth year- even or odd.  There will no longer be an option for single year renewal. Every licensee will get at least 2 years.

Two side-by-side decision flowcharts for determining nursing license expiration dates under biennial licensure. Left flowchart — Determination of license expiration if renewing in 2026: Even birth year (e.g. 1990): born before August 31, license expires 2030 on DOB; born on or after August 31, license expires 2028 on DOB. Odd birth year (e.g. 1991): born before August 31, license expires 2029 on DOB; born on or after August 31, license expires 2029 on DOB. Right flowchart — Determination of license expiration if license was issued before biennial implementation date with a license expiring in 2027: Even birth year (e.g. 1990): born before August 31, license expires 2030 on DOB; born on or after August 31, license expires 2030 on DOB. Odd birth year (e.g. 1991): born before August 31, license expires 2031 on DOB; born on or after August 31, license expires 2029 on DOB.

  • Fee Adjustments: Beginning with the issuance of a 2-year license renewal, fees will be adjusted to align with the extended renewal period. Licensees will only be charged for whole years.

 

New Applicants: All new applicants will be issued at least a 2-year license that expires on their date of birth (their birth year will not be considered).

 

*There are a few license types the Board of Nursing offers that will not be impacted by the transition:

  • One-Time Short-Term LPN
  • One-Time Short-Term RN
  • Virtual Telehealth – Nurse
  • Nurse Apprentice
  • Licensed Practical Nurse Temp
  • APRN Temp
  • Registered Nurse Temp

 

We understand that this process isn’t as simple as flipping a switch, but we’re confident this change will make things easier for you in the long run. Thank you for your continued flexibility as we implement more streamlined processes intended to support you, our professionals.

To help you familiarize yourself with the changes, we have gathered some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for you below.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):  

  • I have a business license – how do I know when my license was originally issued? 
    • You can find your original license issue date in OASIS, either in your own profile page, or in the Public Search feature.
  • Why is this change happening?
    • The transition to 2-year licenses expiring on birthdate is designed to reduce the administrative burden of renewals all expiring in one month – improving efficiency.
  • Why is my renewal dependent on the year I was born? 
    • To ensure a smooth transition, for current licensees DOPL is phasing in the new renewal cycle based on birth year. This method evenly distributes renewals over two renewal cycles while ensuring steady cash flow for the board. This allows DOPL to ensure that your license renewals and fees are handled with the utmost care.
  • How are my fees changing? 
    • Once you move to a 2-year renewal cycle, your licensing fee will double to reflect the extended renewal period. This means you will pay for two years upfront, but you will only need to renew every other year. Licensees will only be charged for whole years.  
  • Will I still be able to renew early?
    • .You will still be able to renew up to 60 days prior to your license expiration on your birthday, unless otherwise stated.
  • What if I cannot afford to pay for a two-year renewal right now?
    • Please contact DOPL at (208) 334-3233 for other options.

 

For more details, visit the DOPL Website.

Thank you for your hard work and continued dedication.