Texas LPN Continuing Education Requirements 2026

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Texas must complete 20 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain an active nursing license.

20 CE Hours Required
2 years Renewal Period
$68 Renewal Fee
2 Mandatory Topics

Overview of Texas LPN CE Requirements

Maintaining your Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in Texas requires staying current with continuing education (CE). The Texas Board of Nursing mandates that all LPNs complete 20 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 20 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 Texas:


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Specific CE Hour Requirements for Texas

Important: All 20 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

Texas LPNs can complete continuing education through various approved formats:

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

Mandatory CE Topics for Texas LPNs

In addition to general nursing continuing education, Texas requires LPNs to complete specific mandatory topics as part of their 20-hour requirement. These courses address critical areas identified by the state board.

General Nursing CE

20 Hours

Texas Board of Nursing approved

Geriatric Care

2 Hours

Required if working with elderly patients

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 Texas LPNs

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

NursingCECentral

Texas-specific packages

Visit NursingCECentral

NetCE

Geriatric specialty

Visit NetCE

Nurse.com

Free CE options

Visit Nurse.com

Elite Learning

Complete packages

Visit Elite Learning

How to Choose the Right CE Provider

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


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How to Track Your CE Hours

Proper documentation of your continuing education is essential. The Texas Board of Nursing 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 Texas 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 20 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 Texas). The board may audit your records during renewal or afterward.

Audit Alert: The Texas Board of Nursing 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.

Texas LPN License Renewal Process

Renewing your Texas LPN license involves completing your CE requirements and submitting your renewal application to the Texas Board of Nursing.

Step-by-Step Renewal Process

1

Complete All 20 CE Hours

Finish all required continuing education, including mandatory topics, before the renewal deadline: Last day of birth month every 2 years.

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 Texas Board of Nursing website (https://www.bon.texas.gov) 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 $68 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 Texas LPNs need?

Texas LPNs must complete 20 contact hours of continuing education every 2 years to renew their license.

What are the mandatory CE topics for Texas LPNs?

General Nursing CE (20 hours), Geriatric Care (2 hours). The remaining hours can be general nursing topics of your choice.

Can I complete CE courses online?

Yes! The Texas Board of Nursing accepts online CE courses from approved providers. Most Texas LPNs complete their entire 20-hour requirement online for convenience.

How much does CE cost for Texas LPNs?

The average cost for 20 hours of CE in Texas ranges from $100-$200, depending on the provider and course format. Some employers offer free CE benefits.

When is the renewal deadline for Texas LPN licenses?

Texas LPN licenses must be renewed Last day of birth month every 2 years. The renewal fee is $68. 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 Texas Board of Nursing.

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 20 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 20 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 Texas Board of Nursing

For questions about CE requirements, license renewal, or compliance issues, contact the Texas Board of Nursing:

Texas Board of Nursing

Address: 333 Guadalupe, Suite 3-460, Austin, TX 78701
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 Texas LPN CE Requirements?

Don't wait until the last minute! Start your 20 hours of continuing education today and renew your license with confidence.


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