California RN & LPN CE requirements

Required topics

• Implicit bias: 1 hour, one time at first renewal (RNs)

Ways to earn your hours

Contact hours usually come from accredited online courses, conferences, webinars and hands-on skills courses like an IV refresher. Make sure each course awards contact hours from a provider your board accepts, and keep your certificates in case you're audited.

Take the free IV therapy practice test → · What to look for in an IV refresher

Frequently asked questions

How many CE hours do nurses need in California?

RNs: 30 contact hours. LPNs: 30 contact hours (LVN). Renewal: every 2 years.

Does California require specific CE topics for nurses?

Yes: Implicit bias: 1 hour, one time at first renewal (RNs).

Does an IV refresher course count toward CE in California?

It can, if the course awards contact hours from a provider your board accepts. Check the course's accreditation before you enroll.

Summary of California board of nursing rules for general RN and LPN renewal as of September 2026. APRN, prescriber and DEA requirements are not included. Requirements change; always confirm with the California board of nursing before you renew.

CE requirements for all states · LPN CE requirements · Required topics: Implicit bias · Human trafficking · Suicide prevention · Child abuse and mandated reporter · Alzheimer's disease and dementia · Pain management · Substance use and opioids · Cultural competency and LGBTQ · Domestic violence