Iowa
Registered Nurse CE & renewal requirements in Iowa (2026)
36 contact hours per renewal, on a 36-month renewal cycle with Iowa Board of Nursing.
Renewal cycle
Every 36 months
3-year cycle, expiring the 15th of the licensee's birth month
Continuing education
36 contact hours per renewal
36 contact hours of CE per 3-year renewal cycle; no general mandatory topics for RNs (opioid-prescribing CE applies to ARNPs only)
Source: Iowa Board of Nursing · Verified July 5, 2026
Rules change — always confirm current requirements with your board before relying on this page. Visit Iowa Board of Nursing
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Browse all statesFrequently asked questions
- How often do registered nurses renew their license in Iowa?
- 3-year cycle, expiring the 15th of the licensee's birth month
- How many contact hours do I need in Iowa?
- 36 contact hours per renewal. 36 contact hours of CE per 3-year renewal cycle; no general mandatory topics for RNs (opioid-prescribing CE applies to ARNPs only)
- Where do I renew my Registered Nurse license in Iowa?
- Through Iowa Board of Nursing. We verified these details on 2026-07-05 — always confirm with the board before your deadline.
- Is this page official?
- No — Credlark is an independent organizational tool, not the licensing board. This page cites its source and check date; use it to plan, then confirm with your board.