If you are a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN) in Indiana, it is important to know that your nursing license needs to be renewed every two years. The renewal process is relatively simple, but there are a few things you need to be aware of.
By understanding the process, being honest about your history, and seeking appropriate support when needed, you can continue your nursing career with confidence.
Understanding the Indiana Nursing License Renewal Process
The first thing you need to do is determine when your license expires. You can find this information on your nursing license. Once you know your expiration date, you will need to submit a renewal application to the Indiana Board of Nursing (BON).
The renewal application is available online. You will need to provide your personal information, such as your name, address, and date of birth. You will also need to pay a renewal fee.
Renewal Deadlines and Fees
The renewal fee for RNs and LPNs is $40. You can pay the fee online or by mail.
The renewal deadline is usually 30 days before your license expires. However, it is important to submit your application as soon as possible, as there may be processing delays.
Disclosure Requirements on the Application
On the renewal application, you will be asked to disclose any disciplinary actions that you have been subject to, such as arrests, convictions, or license suspensions.
If you have been subject to any disciplinary actions, you will need to provide additional information, such as the date of the action and the outcome.
Legal Concerns and Renewing Your Nursing License
If you have been subject to a disciplinary action, you may be concerned about whether or not you will be able to renew your nursing license.
The board of nursing will review your application and any additional information you provide. If the BON determines that you are not fit to practice nursing, they may deny your renewal application. Indiana nursing license renewals require you to disclose any criminal arrests or convictions that occurred in the past two years and haven’t been expunged since your last renewal.
Disclosing Past Arrests or Misdemeanors
If you have been arrested for a crime, but you have not been convicted, you are not required to disclose this on your renewal application. However, if you have been convicted of a crime, you are required to disclose this on your renewal application.
If you have been convicted of a misdemeanor, the BON may require you to provide additional information, such as the circumstances of the crime and the nature of your punishment.
If you have been convicted of a felony, the BON may deny your renewal application.
It's also crucial to know that these questions apply even to charges that were dismissed or resulted in diversion programs. Many people assume such cases won’t show up on their record, but they still count. If you’ve been charged with any offense, or a violation of other laws, it’s a good idea to consult with a nursing license defense attorney before submitting your renewal application.
Disclosing Past DUIs
During license renewals, the Board reviews background checks, and anyone who provides false information may be required to appear. If a violation impacts their ability to practice, penalties may be issued based on the severity. You must report any DUI arrest or conviction on your Indiana nursing license renewal.
Our attorneys understand how crucial it is to maintain your nursing license and have significant experience representing nurses before the Indiana State Board of Nursing. If you're facing or have faced a DUI, it's essential to have a lawyer with experience in license defense.
How a Nursing License Defense Lawyer Can Help
If you are facing disciplinary action or if you are concerned about your ability to renew your nursing license, you should consider hiring a nursing license defense lawyer.
A nursing license defense lawyer can help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process. They can also represent you in any disciplinary hearings.
Protecting Your Nursing Career with the Callahan Law Firm
The Callahan Law Firm is well versed in defending healthcare professionals. We have a team of experienced attorneys who can help you protect your nursing license. If you are facing a disciplinary action or if you are concerned about your ability to renew your nursing license, please contact us for a free consultation.
We can help you:
- Understand your rights
- Navigate the legal process
- Represent you in any disciplinary hearings
We are committed to helping healthcare professionals protect their careers. We believe that everyone deserves a second chance.
If you have made a mistake, we can help you get your nursing license back. Our legal team knows how vital it is to keep your nursing license in good standing, and we have a lot of experience defending nurses in front of the Indiana State Board of Nursing. Please contact us today for a free consultation by visiting us online or by calling our office at (312) 209-9394.