Texas nurses are required to renew their nursing license every two years. But life as a nurse is demanding and it gets busy sometimes that you may not realize you’ve missed the deadline to renew your Texas nursing license. But don’t worry, an expired license doesn’t mean your nursing career is over. Here’s what every nurse in San Antonio needs to know to get back on track.
Stop Practicing Immediately
This is the most critical rule. Once your Texas nursing license expires, it means you are no longer permitted to practice nursing. This includes charting, administering medications, and signing any clinical documentation. Do not represent yourself as a currently licensed RN or LVN. It may be tempting to keep working while you sort things out, but doing so is illegal and can lead to disciplinary action from the Texas Board of Nursing.
Notify your employer immediately and stop all nursing duties.
If you have already practiced while your nursing license has expired, contact a nurse attorney before responding to the TBON. Early guidance can significantly reduce the risk of disciplinary action.
Start the renewal process right away to get back into compliance as quickly as possible
Renew or Reactivate your Nursing License
The process of renewing or reactivating your Texas nursing license depends on how long your license has been expired.
A nursing license that lapsed less than 1 year can be renewed online through the Texas Board of Nursing Portal. A standard license renewal is typically processed within minutes once completed online. You must meet all the requirements needed and standard renewal fees may apply.
While a nursing license that lapsed more than 1 year is considered as a reactivation rather than a simple renewal. This process can take longer because the Texas Board of Nursing may require additional documentation.
How to Prevent Future Lapses
Once your nursing license is active again, it’s important to set up a few simple reminders to prevent future expirations. A few minutes of preparation now can save you stress later and help protect your nursing career.
Start by setting multiple reminders in advance of your renewal deadline. If you move or switch emails, make sure to update your contact information with the Texas Board of Nursing. Many nurses miss renewal notices simply because the TBON email went to an old address.
By staying proactive, you’ll make it much easier to keep your license in good standing.
Why a Nurse Attorney is Important in Renewing Your License
Navigating a Texas Board of Nursing renewal process can be tricky especially if your nursing license has been expired for a long time or if there are complicating factors. In such cases, even a small mistake on your application can cause delays or trigger an investigation. A nursing license defense attorney plays an important role in protecting your ability to return to practice.
At Texas Nurse Lawyers, we can guide you through regulations to make sure you understand the TBON requirements, assist with any disciplinary issues that might affect your eligibility, and review your renewal application to prevent mistakes that can unintentionally put your license at risk. Our team can prepare you for any Board meetings and present the strongest mitigating evidence to protect your professional record.
Working with our team can save you time, reduce stress, and greatly improve your chances of a smooth and successful license renewal or reactivation. If your license has lapsed or you’re uncertain about what to disclose, reach out to us before submitting your renewal application.
Book an appointment with Texas Nurse Lawyers today to protect your career and return to practice with confidence.
