Virginia
Registered Nurse CE & renewal requirements in Virginia (2026)
30 contact hours per renewal, on a 24-month renewal cycle with Virginia Board of Nursing (DHP).
Renewal cycle
24months
Biennial; RNs renew by the last day of their birth month. First renewal after initial licensure is exempt from continued competency.
Contact hours
30
30 contact hours per renewal — No single mandatory number — complete ONE continued-competency option: 30 contact hours of CE, OR 15 contact hours + 640 hours active practice, OR alternatives (national certification, 3+ academic credits, refresher course, publication, or teaching). No mandatory topics.
Verified against dhp.virginia.gov · Verified July 5, 2026
Rules change — always confirm current requirements with your board before relying on this page. Visit Virginia Board of Nursing (DHP)
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- How often do registered nurses renew their license in Virginia?
- Biennial; RNs renew by the last day of their birth month. First renewal after initial licensure is exempt from continued competency.
- How many contact hours do I need in Virginia?
- 30 contact hours per renewal. No single mandatory number — complete ONE continued-competency option: 30 contact hours of CE, OR 15 contact hours + 640 hours active practice, OR alternatives (national certification, 3+ academic credits, refresher course, publication, or teaching). No mandatory topics.
- Where do I renew my Registered Nurse license in Virginia?
- Through Virginia Board of Nursing (DHP). We verified these details on 2026-07-05 — always confirm with the board before your deadline.
- Is this page official?
- No — RenewBird 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.