RN Warehouse

Iowa nursing license rules

Compact state

RN and LPN · Last checked October 29, 2026 · Sources

Iowa is a compact state (since January 2018). If your primary state of residence is another compact state and you hold a multistate license, you can work in Iowa in person or by telehealth without a new license. If you live in Iowa, your multistate license is issued here.

RN renewalEvery 3 years (first license 24-36 months)
RN CE hours per cycle36
RN endorsement fee$119
Renewal cycle
Every 3 years (first license 24-36 months)
When it expires
15th day of licensee's birth month; 30-day late window to 15th of next month
Renewal fee
$99
Continuing education
36 contact hours per renewal cycle
Required CE topics
  • Child abuse identification and reporting training (DHHS curriculum, within previous 3 years, if regularly treating children)
  • Dependent adult abuse training (DHHS curriculum, within previous 3 years, if regularly working with adults)
Endorsement fee
$119
Fingerprints for endorsement
Yes, a criminal background check with fingerprints
Temporary permit
Available. Temporary license up to 30 days while official transcripts are pending (rule 481-617.6(2)); no fee listed
How to apply
Apply online; Nursys verification of original license; transcripts sent directly from school; Fieldprint fingerprints with national criminal history check; refresher course if no active license in 5 years.

Moving or traveling

Moving to Iowa from another compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state within 60 days (rule effective 2024-01-02). May keep practicing on the old multistate license until the new one is issued; the old one is then deactivated. Can apply before moving.

Moving here from a non-compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state; a multistate license may be issued if residency and uniform requirements (incl. state and federal fingerprint background checks) are met. The old single-state license is unaffected.

Check another state

Board of nursing

Iowa Board of Nursing (Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing - DIAL)

Licenses: RN, LPN

Board home · Renewal · Endorsement · CE rules
This page summarizes Iowa's rules from the board's own pages as of October 29, 2026. Fees and rules change, so confirm with the board before you apply or renew. Spotted something out of date? Email hello@lawfrogrnesq.com.

Sources