Maine Nursing License Renewal: 3 Steps

Maine is a popular destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. With the nickname Vacationland, Maine attracts over 15 million visitors a year. It has all the outdoor delights one could want — rocky coastlines, islands, rivers, lakes, and gorgeous parks.

With over 1 million residents, it’s a place in high demand for healthcare services. It has a strong healthcare sector and quality facilities that offer opportunities for career advancement. Additionally, Maine offers loan repayment programs for healthcare practitioners willing to relocate to the state for several years.

To practice nursing in this state, you need to stay up to date with the Maine nursing license renewal process. In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the process for nursing license renewal, Maine Board of Nursing continuing education requirements, and more.

Maine Nursing Facts

Before diving headfirst into the journey, make sure you’ve got these key details ready.

Is Maine part of the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC)?

Yes. For information about licensure in other states, explore our nursing license renewal state guide.

How much do nurses in Maine earn?

• The average CNA salary in Maine is $42,960 per year.
• The average LPN salary in Maine is $71,430 per year.
• The average RN salary in Maine is $84,340 per year.
• The average APRN salary in Maine is $122,940 per year.

How can I contact the Maine Board of Nursing?

Main State Board of Nursing Phone Number: 207-287-1133

Main State Board of Nursing Fax Number: 207-287-1149

Email Address: MPHP@mainemed.com

Website: https://www.maine.gov/boardofnursing/index.html

Maine Board of Nursing Address:
161 Capitol Street
Augusta, ME 04333

It’s important to mention that the Maine Board of Nursing is not responsible for the processing of CNA applications. You can find the contact information for the CNA Registry below:

CNA Registry Fax Number: 207-287-9325

Email Address: DLRS.CNARegistry@maine.gov

Website: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/dlc/cna-registry

Maine CNA Registry Address:

41 Anthony Avenue
Augusta, ME 04333

Maine Nursing License Renewal Steps

If your current nursing license is registered in this state, you can renew it by following the three steps below. If renewal is not an option, there are two alternative routes to consider:

• License endorsement: If you’re a nurse with a license from another state, this option is for you.
• License by examination: If you’re a new graduate nursing professional and seeking your first-ever license, this option is for you.

If you have a multistate license from another state, simply follow your home state’s renewal schedule. You’ll only need to consider applying for license renewal in Maine if you make it your primary residence — which you can prove with voting records, tax documents, or obtaining a Maine driver’s license.

Step 1: Determine Your Renewal Deadline

First things first — know when your license expires. In Maine, RNs, LPNs, and APRNs renew their licenses every two years on or before their birthday through the Maine Board of Nursing. CNAs renew their licenses every two years through the CNA Registry.

See the renewal details that correspond with your license below:

• CNAs: Your CNA certificate should be renewed every 2 years within a renewal window of 45 to 60 days before it expires.
• RNs, LPNs, and APRNs: Your nursing license should be renewed every 2 years by your birthday. Keep in mind that the Maine Board of Nursing does not offer a grace period. If you fail to renew your license by its due date, it will be lapsed.

If you’re unsure about your license expiration date, visit the Maine nursing license lookup portal. Select your license type, provide your name and license number, and click the “Search” button. Your license information, including the expiration date, will appear on the screen.

If you find this article after your license has already expired, don’t worry. You can reinstate your license online, though you’ll need to provide some extra documents and pay an additional fee. But, hey, such things happen to the best of us!

Step 2: Satisfy Continuing Education Requirements

Your next step in the Maine nursing license renewal journey is meeting all the necessary continuing education requirements. This ensures you stay updated on the latest advancements in the healthcare industry and continue to improve your professional skills.

For RNs and LPNs, the Maine Board of Nursing website doesn’t outline any continuing education requirements to renew your licenses. But be sure to check with the board before your renewal, as policies can change.

While there is no continuing education required for CNAs, they do need to complete practice requirements. To remain active on the CNA registry, you must demonstrate at least eight hours of qualified employment during each two-year certification period.

APRNs, to renew your licenses, you’ll need to complete a minimum of 50 hours of continuing education in nursing, medicine, or allied health in the area of practice for which you have been licensed. These need to be completed within the two-year renewal period to satisfy Maine nursing license renewal requirements.

In search of continuing education opportunities? IntelyEdu provides a variety of courses that are accredited by the ANCC. Be sure to take advantage of this opportunity!

Step 3: File Your License Renewal Application

Now, let’s delve into the heart of the Maine nursing license renewal process. To get started with your application, visit the Maine Board of Nursing renewal login page and enter your credentials. Afterwards, click “Renew Your License,” type your license number, and continue making your way through the application. At some point, you’ll reach the payment step. The Maine nursing license renewal fee schedule is as follows:

• CNA: No fee
• LPN: $50
• RN: $75
• APRN: $100

For CNAs, the process is similar. Visit the Certified Nursing Assistant and Direct Care Worker Registry and click “Renew an Active CNA Registry Listing.” Afterward, type your license number, and provide all the necessary information. You can also renew your certification by filling out and mailing the CNA renewal form.

Once you’ve completed the Maine nursing license renewal form and submitted your application, your final task is to save a renewal confirmation and receipt for your personal records.

Congratulations! Once your license is renewed, you’re ready to start applying for RN, LPN, CNA, or NP jobs in Maine. You can also check out great nursing opportunities in some of this state’s largest cities:

• Portland
• Lewiston
• Bangor
• South Portland
• Auburn

Find Great Nursing Jobs in Maine State

With your Maine nursing license renewal successfully complete, it’s time to explore some exciting job opportunities. Take a look at all nursing jobs in Maine that are available on IntelyCare, and discover the right match for you.