Renewing your Kansas nursing license is an essential process that ensures you remain legally able to practice. While it may seem straightforward, errors during the renewal process can lead to delays, fines, or even disciplinary action by the Kansas State Board of Nursing (KSBN).

By following best practices and avoiding common pitfalls, nurses can ensure a smooth renewal process and prevent complications that could jeopardize their careers.

Kansas Nursing License Renewal Requirements

The Kansas Nurse Practice Act outlines the requirements for maintaining an active nursing license. All nurses in the state must renew their licenses every two years, and the process includes:

• Submitting a renewal application through the KSBN online portal.
• Paying the renewal fee (varies by license type).
• Completing 30 hours of continuing education (CE) during each renewal cycle.
• Disclosing any criminal charges, disciplinary actions, or past license suspensions (if applicable).

Failure to meet these requirements could lead to license expiration, disciplinary action, or even a formal board investigation.

Common Renewal Mistakes That Lead to Disciplinary Actions

Even experienced nurses can make mistakes that result in delays, fines, or disciplinary action. The most frequent renewal-related errors include:

1. Missing the Renewal Deadline

• Kansas nursing licenses expire on the last day of the nurse’s birth month in odd-numbered or even-numbered years, depending on the initial licensure date.
• If a nurse misses the deadline, they may be unable to work until their license is reinstated.
• Practicing with an expired license is considered unlicensed practice, which can lead to fines, disciplinary action, or even suspension.

How to Avoid This:

• Set up calendar reminders at least two months before your renewal date.
• Submit your renewal well before the deadline to allow time for processing and corrections if needed.

2. Failing to Complete Required Continuing Education (CE) Hours

• RNs, LPNs, and APRNs in Kansas must complete 30 hours of approved CE every two years.
• Common CE-related mistakes include:
  • Failing to complete the full 30-hour requirement.
  • Taking non-approved CE courses that do not meet Kansas Board of Nursing standards.
  • Losing track of CE documentation and being unable to provide proof if audited.

How to Avoid This:

• Keep track of your CE hours throughout the year rather than waiting until renewal time.
• Take courses from board-approved providers to ensure compliance.
• Maintain CE certificates and records for at least five years in case of a compliance audit.

3. Providing Inaccurate or Incomplete Information

• Nurses may accidentally enter incorrect details on their renewal application, such as:
  • Incorrect contact or employment information.
  • Errors in CE reporting.
  • Failing to disclose previous disciplinary actions or license suspensions.
• Even unintentional errors can trigger an investigation by the KSBN.

How to Avoid This:

• Carefully review your application before submitting it.
• Double-check all personal, employment, and CE information for accuracy.

4. Failing to Disclose Criminal Charges or Disciplinary Actions

• Kansas nurses must self-report any criminal charges (such as DUIs or drug-related offenses) and prior disciplinary actions in Kansas or other states.
• Failing to report these issues—even if you believe they are minor—can lead to license suspension or revocation.

How to Avoid This:

• If you are unsure whether a past charge needs to be reported, consult a Kansas nursing license defense attorneybefore submitting your renewal application.
• Be truthful and transparent—hiding information can result in severe penalties.

5. Not Verifying That Your Renewal Was Approved

• Many nurses assume their renewal was processed successfully, only to later discover that their license expired due to a technical issue.

How to Avoid This:

• After submitting your application, check your renewal status on the Kansas Board of Nursing website.
• If you do not receive a confirmation, follow up with the KSBN immediately.

Steps to Ensure a Smooth Nursing License Renewal in Kansas

To prevent renewal-related disciplinary actions, nurses should follow these steps:

1. Know Your Renewal Date

• Check the Kansas State Board of Nursing website for your specific renewal date.
• Set reminders at least 60 days in advance to start preparing.

2. Track Continuing Education (CE) Throughout the Year

• Do not wait until the last minute to complete CE hours.
• Keep an organized record of completed CE courses and certificates.

3. Review Your Application Carefully

• Ensure all personal information, employment history, and CE details are accurate.
• Double-check for errors before submitting your renewal.

4. Submit Your Renewal Early

• Apply at least two to four weeks before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
• Early submission allows time to fix errors or provide additional documents if needed.

5. Retain Proof of Submission

• Keep a digital confirmation or receipt showing that your renewal was successfully submitted.
• If issues arise, having proof of submission may help resolve disputes with the board.

6. Seek Legal Help If You Encounter Problems

• If you receive notice of renewal delays, a license denial, or a KSBN investigation, seek legal guidance immediately.

What to Do If Your Kansas Nursing License Renewal Is Denied

If your renewal application is denied or flagged for review, do not ignore the issue. Instead:

• Consult a Kansas nursing license defense attorney immediately.
• Gather documentation proving that you completed renewal requirements.
• Respond to KSBN requests professionally and promptly.
• Avoid direct communication with the board without legal representation to prevent statements that could be used against you.

A skilled nursing license defense attorney can:

• Review your renewal application for errors.
• Communicate with the KSBN on your behalf.
• Appeal a renewal denial or negotiate to reinstate your license.
• Defend you in a disciplinary hearing if necessary.

How a Kansas Nursing License Defense Attorney Can Help

At Sanger Law Office, LLC, we assist Kansas nurses with:

• License renewal errors and delays
• CE compliance issues
• Appealing a renewal denial
• Defending against accusations of unlicensed practice
• Communicating with the Kansas State Board of Nursing on your behalf

Call Danielle Sanger For a Free Consultation

If you are experiencing issues with your Kansas nursing license renewal or have received a notice of investigation, do not risk your career by handling it alone.

📞 Call Sanger Law Office, LLC today for a free consultation:
(785) 979-4353 for Kansas
(816) 520-8040 for Missouri

With decades of experience defending nurses, we are committed to helping you meet renewal requirements, correct mistakes, and protect your nursing license. Call now to discuss your case.