RN Warehouse

Colorado nursing license rules

Compact state

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

Colorado 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 Colorado in person or by telehealth without a new license. If you live in Colorado, your multistate license is issued here.

RN renewalEvery 2 years
RN CE hours per cycleNone set
RN endorsement feeSee details
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
When it expires
Current cycle: RN licenses expire Sept 30, 2026, renewable through Nov 30, 2026 (even years)
Renewal fee
Not published as a fixed amount; the fee is shown on the application or renewal in the board's online portal Board page
Continuing education
No set number of CE hours. The state may require other proof of competence (such as practice hours or a certification) or specific courses; check the board's renewal page.
Required CE topics
None found on the board's pages.
Endorsement fee
Not published as a fixed amount; the fee is shown on the application or renewal in the board's online portal Board page
Fingerprints for endorsement
Yes, a criminal background check with fingerprints
Temporary permit
Not confirmed yet. Check with the board
How to apply
Apply online via DPO Online Services; must have passed NCLEX and hold a license in another state; continued competency (e.g., refresher course) if not practicing in the last 2 years; fingerprints through IdentoGO or American BioIdentity.

Moving or traveling

Moving to Colorado 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

Colorado State Board of Nursing (DORA Division of Professions and Occupations)

Licenses: RN, LPN

Board home · Renewal · Endorsement · CE rules
This page summarizes Colorado'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 Spotted something out of date?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 [email protected].

Sources