Re-entry Process for RNs and LPNs

Nursing practice is always changing, and nurses who wish to return to practice after a period of inactivity must demonstrate knowledge, comprehension, and application of practice changes that have occurred. Registered and Practical Nurses who have not been active in nursing practice for at least 400 hours in the 4 years immediately prior to date of application must complete a board approved re-entry program before permanent license to practice can be granted (RSA 326-B:16.) The approved options available to nurses have been designed to allow for analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of the new knowledge of the health care environment. The following options are board approved.

Option 1: Structured Refresher Course and Clinical Practicum

Option 1 requires completion of a formal refresher course that must be a minimum of 120 hours (40 theory/classroom hours and 80 clinical hours). The theory includes content from the sciences, nursing process, leadership and organization, nursing interventions, health promotion, and legal and ethical issues. Clinical practice must be supervised by a Registered Nurse. Courses are offered at various hospitals and educational institutions. Please note that most of the structured refresher courses exceed the minimum hours as established in the Administrative rules. The list of New Hampshire Board approved courses is at the end of this document.

You must have a temporary New Hampshire RN or PN license before beginning these classes. Your temporary license is issued after you have been accepted into the course. A temporary license CANNOT be issued until the Board has received and reviewed your New Hampshire Criminal Background Check. The temporary license only allows you to practice under the supervision of the Board approved re-entry course instructor.

Option 2: Successful completion of NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN

Option 2 requires the successful completion of the National Council of State Board of Nursing Licensing Examination.

You must apply to the Board of Nursing for approval to take NCLEX. You must register and take the NCLEX within 6 months of making application to the Board for approval to take the examination and you may only take the NCLEX once as a re-entry option.

Approved Education Programs for Re-entry