Idaho Registered Nurse (RN) Continuing Education Requirements
Requirements Overview
Idaho uses a Continued Competence model requiring nurses to complete activities from at least two of three categories: Practice (100 hours of nursing practice or current specialty certification), Education (15 CE contact hours, 1 semester credit, a refresher course, or workshop participation), and Professional Engagement (published article, nursing course teaching, or related professional activities).
The Education category is the most straightforward path for most nurses: 15 CE contact hours from ANCC-accredited providers satisfies it. Combined with 100 hours of nursing practice under the Practice category, this is the most common two-category combination.
Newly graduated RNs are exempt from all Continued Competence requirements for their first renewal cycle. The Board may audit compliance and requires documentation within 30 days of request.
First Renewal vs. Standard Renewal
Exemptions
- First Renewal Exemption — Newly graduated LPNs and RNs are exempt from Continued Competence Requirements for the first renewal cycle after initial licensure.Only applies to the first renewal cycle.
How You Can Complete Your CE
Provider Requirements
Idaho does not list specific approved CE providers on the Board page. CE from ANCC-accredited providers is accepted. The requirement references continuing education generally under IDAPA 23.01.01.061.
Tips for Idaho RNs
- The easiest combination for most working nurses is Practice (100 hours of employment) plus Education (15 CE hours). If you work even part-time, you likely already meet the practice threshold.
- If you precept, teach, or publish, the Professional Engagement category lets you skip either CE hours or the practice hours requirement.
- Keep documentation for all competency categories throughout your renewal period — Idaho gives only 30 days to respond to an audit request.
- New graduates get a full first-cycle exemption. Don't waste money on CE courses before your first renewal.