Colorado RN Continuing Education Requirements, Explained
Last reviewed June 2026 against the official sources linked below. Requirements change — always confirm with your board before relying on them.
Total hours
None for renewal
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years, expires Sept 30
Competency rule
Refresher required after a long practice gap
Issued by
Colorado Board of Nursing
Colorado is one of the states that does not require continuing education to renew an RN license. There is no contact-hour total and no mandatory topic list for a standard, active renewal.
There is one situation where competency proof comes into play - returning after a long break - plus a firm renewal deadline. Here is what to know.
No CE required for standard RN renewal
The Colorado Board of Nursing, within the Division of Professions and Occupations (DPO), does not currently require continuing education hours to renew an active RN license. This is the official position stated in the Board's nursing FAQs.
You may still earn CE for a national certification or employer requirement, but the state does not mandate hours for renewal.
The one exception: returning after a gap
- If you have not practiced nursing under an active license in the previous two years, Colorado requires you to demonstrate continued competency.
- Continued competency can be established by completing a full refresher course approved by the Board.
- This applies to reactivation and re-entry situations, not to a normal active-to-active renewal.
- There is no separate one-time topic (such as pain management) required of all Colorado RNs.
Stop tracking this in a spreadsheet
Progress rings per requirement, private certificate storage, deadline reminders, and a one-click audit packet. Set up in two minutes — free for your first license.
Start tracking — freeWhen is your deadline?
Colorado RN licenses renew every two years and expire on September 30 of either an odd- or even-numbered year, depending on when your license was issued. The renewal window typically opens about four to six weeks before expiration.
You can only renew during that open window, so the date itself is the main thing to track.
How CredTally keeps this on autopilot
- No CE is required for renewal, so CredTally locks onto your September 30 deadline and counts down with a clear progress ring.
- If you are reactivating after a gap, store your refresher-course certificate privately with the license record.
- Reminders at 90, 60, 30, and 7 days so you renew inside the window and avoid a lapse.
- Manage a multi-state or compact license? Track each state's distinct rules and dates together.
Frequently asked questions
Does Colorado require CE for RN renewal?
No. The Colorado Board of Nursing does not require continuing education hours to renew an active RN license.
When does my Colorado RN license expire?
Every two years on September 30, in an odd- or even-numbered year depending on initial issuance.
What if I have not practiced in two years?
You must demonstrate continued competency, which can be met by completing an approved refresher course.
Is there a one-time required course for all RNs?
No. Colorado does not mandate a one-time topic such as pain management for standard active renewal.
Official sources
CredTally is a record-keeping tool and is not affiliated with any licensing board. This guide is general information, not legal or compliance advice.
CredTally tracks all of this for you
Progress rings per requirement, private certificate storage, deadline reminders, and a one-click audit packet. Set up in two minutes — free for your first license.
Start tracking — free