Michigan LPN Continuing Education Requirements 2026

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Michigan must complete 25 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain an active nursing license.

25 CE Hours Required
2 years Renewal Period
$120 Renewal Fee
3 Mandatory Topics

Overview of Michigan LPN CE Requirements

Maintaining your Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in Michigan requires staying current with continuing education (CE). The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) mandates that all LPNs complete 25 contact hours of approved continuing education every 2 years as a condition of license renewal.

Quick Tip: Start your CE early! Don't wait until the last minute before your renewal deadline. Spread your 25 hours throughout the 2 years period to reduce stress and ensure you have time to complete all mandatory topics.

Why Continuing Education Matters

Continuing education serves several critical purposes for LPNs in Michigan:


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Specific CE Hour Requirements for Michigan

Important: All 25 hours of CE must be completed during the 2 years period immediately preceding your license expiration date. CE hours from earlier periods do not carry over.

Key Requirements

Acceptable CE Formats

Michigan LPNs can complete continuing education through various approved formats:

Flexibility: Most Michigan LPNs complete their CE requirements entirely online, allowing you to learn on your own schedule from anywhere with internet access.

Mandatory CE Topics for Michigan LPNs

In addition to general nursing continuing education, Michigan requires LPNs to complete specific mandatory topics as part of their 25-hour requirement. These courses address critical areas identified by the state board.

General Nursing CE

21 Hours

LARA-approved continuing education

Pain & Pain Symptom Management

2 Hours

Mandatory for all LPNs

Implicit Bias Training

2 Hours

1 hour per year of license

Pro Tip: Complete your mandatory topics first, then fill the remaining hours with elective courses that match your specialty or career interests. This ensures you meet all requirements while building skills relevant to your practice area.

Top CE Providers for Michigan LPNs

Choosing the right CE provider is crucial. Below are trusted, board-approved providers offering courses that meet Michigan LPN requirements. These providers offer complete packages, affordable pricing, and convenient online access.

NursingCECentral

Pain management + implicit bias

Visit NursingCECentral

Elite Learning

Complete MI package

Visit Elite Learning

Michigan Nurses Association

State-specific training

Visit Michigan Nurses Association

MSU Nursing CE

Academic-quality courses

Visit MSU Nursing CE

How to Choose the Right CE Provider

When selecting a CE provider for your Michigan license renewal, consider:


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How to Track Your CE Hours

Proper documentation of your continuing education is essential. The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) may audit your records, so maintaining accurate documentation is critical for compliance.

Best Practices for Tracking CE

1

Save All Certificates Immediately

Download and save completion certificates as soon as you finish each course. Store them in both digital and physical formats (print copies as backup).

2

Create a CE Log/Spreadsheet

Maintain a simple spreadsheet tracking: course name, provider, date completed, hours earned, certificate number, and topic category (mandatory vs. elective).

3

Use CE Tracking Tools

Many providers offer built-in tracking dashboards. CEBroker is also used in Michigan to automatically report CE completion to the board.

4

Verify Hours Before Renewal

At least 30-60 days before your renewal deadline, review your CE log to ensure you've completed all 25 required hours, including mandatory topics.

5

Retain Records for 4+ Years

Keep all CE documentation for at least 4 years (or longer, as required by Michigan). The board may audit your records during renewal or afterward.

Audit Alert: The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) conducts random audits of CE compliance. If selected, you must provide proof of all completed CE hours. Failure to do so can result in license suspension or disciplinary action.

Michigan LPN License Renewal Process

Renewing your Michigan LPN license involves completing your CE requirements and submitting your renewal application to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).

Step-by-Step Renewal Process

1

Complete All 25 CE Hours

Finish all required continuing education, including mandatory topics, before the renewal deadline: Every 2 years by birth month.

2

Gather Documentation

Compile all CE certificates and ensure your records are organized. You may not need to submit them during renewal, but must have them ready for potential audit.

3

Access the Online Renewal Portal

Visit the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) website (https://www.michigan.gov/lara) and log in to the online license renewal system.

4

Complete Renewal Application

Answer all questions truthfully, including attestations about CE completion, criminal history, and disciplinary actions.

5

Pay Renewal Fee

Submit the renewal fee of $120 via credit card or other accepted payment methods. Late renewals may incur additional fees.

6

Receive Confirmation

After processing (typically 1-3 business days), you'll receive confirmation and your renewed license. Verify all information is correct.

Don't Let Your License Expire! Practicing on an expired license is illegal and can result in fines, disciplinary action, and employment termination. Set reminders 90 days before your renewal deadline.

Renewal Timeline & Fees

Frequently Asked Questions

How many CE hours do Michigan LPNs need?

Michigan LPNs must complete 25 contact hours of continuing education every 2 years to renew their license.

What are the mandatory CE topics for Michigan LPNs?

General Nursing CE (21 hours), Pain & Pain Symptom Management (2 hours), Implicit Bias Training (2 hours). The remaining hours can be general nursing topics of your choice.

Can I complete CE courses online?

Yes! The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) accepts online CE courses from approved providers. Most Michigan LPNs complete their entire 25-hour requirement online for convenience.

How much does CE cost for Michigan LPNs?

The average cost for 25 hours of CE in Michigan ranges from $125-$250, depending on the provider and course format. Some employers offer free CE benefits.

When is the renewal deadline for Michigan LPN licenses?

Michigan LPN licenses must be renewed Every 2 years by birth month. The renewal fee is $120. Late renewals may incur additional penalties.

Do I need to submit my CE certificates with my renewal application?

Typically, no. You attest to completing the required CE hours during renewal, but you must keep all certificates on file for at least 4 years in case of audit by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).

Can CE hours carry over to the next renewal period?

No. CE hours completed outside the current 2 years renewal period cannot be used. All 25 hours must be earned within the period immediately preceding your license expiration.

What happens if I don't complete my CE before renewal?

If you fail to complete the required 25 hours, your license will lapse or expire. You may be able to apply for late renewal with penalties, but practicing on an expired license is illegal.

Contact the Michigan Board of Nursing

For questions about CE requirements, license renewal, or compliance issues, contact the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA):

Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)

Address: P.O. Box 30670, Lansing, MI 48909
Best Practices: Before calling the board, review their website's FAQ section and downloadable guides. Most common questions about CE and renewal are addressed there, saving you time on hold.

Ready to Complete Your Michigan LPN CE Requirements?

Don't wait until the last minute! Start your 25 hours of continuing education today and renew your license with confidence.