Maine Nursing License Renewal: 3 Steps

Are you a holder of a Maine nursing license? Renewal process — required every two years — is crucial for maintaining your legal ability to practice and keeping your skills up to date. This article outlines the three essential steps to complete your nursing license renewal.

Maine is an appealing state for healthcare professionals. With a population of over 1 million people and a yearly influx of 15 million visitors (the state’s nickname is Vacationland), you’ll have an opportunity to work with a diverse range of patients. And the state’s strong healthcare sector offers numerous opportunities for career advancement in every specialty and setting. Let’s explore the renewal steps so you can begin taking advantage of all Maine has to offer.

Maine Nursing Facts

There are a few things you need to know for a smooth nursing license renewal. Maine, like any other state, requires nurses to follow certain guidelines to maintain their license. Here’s some key info to keep handy when beginning your renewal journey.

Is Maine part of the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC)?

Yes. For more information, explore our article about Maine Nurse Practice Act.

How much do nurses in Maine earn?

• The average CNA salary in Maine is $45,500 per year.
• The average LPN salary in Maine is $72,600 per year.
• The average RN salary in Maine is $87,440 per year.
• The average NP salary in Maine is $127,750 per year.

How can I contact the Maine Board of Nursing?

Main State Board of Nursing Phone Number: 207-287-1133

Main State Board of Nursing Fax Number: 207-287-1149

Email Address: rebecca.stenger@maine.gov

Website: https://www.maine.gov/boardofnursing/index.html

Maine Board of Nursing Address:
161 Capitol Street
Augusta, ME 04333

It’s important to mention that the Maine Board of Nursing is not responsible for the processing of CNA applications. You can find the contact information for the CNA Registry below:

CNA Registry Fax Number: 207-287-9325

Email Address: DLRS.CNARegistry@maine.gov

Website: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/dlc/cna-registry

Maine CNA Registry Address:

41 Anthony Avenue
Augusta, ME 04333

How to Renew a Nursing License in Maine: 3 Steps

Are you a nurse residing in the state of Maine? Nursing license needs renewal? Just follow the steps below. But if you hold a license from another compact state, explore our guide for state-specific renewal information. If renewal is not an option, there are two alternative routes to consider:

• License endorsement: If you’re a nurse with a license from another state, this option is for you.
• License by examination: If you’re a new graduate nursing professional and seeking your first-ever license, this option is for you.

You’ll only need to consider applying for license renewal in Maine if you make it your primary residence — which you can prove with voting records, tax documents, or obtaining a Maine driver’s license.

Step 1: Determine Your Renewal Deadline

First things first — know when your license expires. See the renewal details that correspond with your license below:

• CNAs: Your CNA certification must be renewed every 2 years. The Division of Licensing and Certification will mail a renewal form within a renewal window of 45 to 60 days before it expires.
• RNs, LPNs, and APRNs: Your nursing license should be renewed every 2 years by your birthday. Keep in mind that the Maine Board of Nursing does not offer a grace period. If you fail to renew your license by its due date, it will lapse.

If you’re unsure about your license expiration date, visit the Maine nursing license lookup tool. Select your license type, provide your name and license number, and click the search button. Your license information, including the expiration date, will appear on the screen.

Tip: If you find this article after your license has already expired, don’t worry. You can reinstate your license online, though you’ll need to provide some extra documents and pay an additional fee. But, hey, these things happen to the best of us!

Step 2: Satisfy Continuing Education Requirements

RNs and LPNs: The Maine Board of Nursing does not currently require continuing education to renew your license. However, it’s important to check with the board before renewing, as requirements can change.

CNAs: While there are no continuing education requirements, CNAs must meet practice requirements to maintain an active status. To remain on the CNA registry, you must complete at least eight hours of qualified employment and have no disqualifying annotations during each two-year certification period.

APRNs: To renew your licenses, you’ll need to complete a minimum of 50 hours of continuing education in nursing, medicine, or allied health in the area of practice for which you have been licensed. These need to be completed within the two-year renewal period to satisfy the Maine nursing license renewal requirements.

Tip: In search of continuing education opportunities? IntelyEdu provides a variety of courses that are accredited by the ANCC.

Step 3: File Your License Renewal Application

Now, it’s time to submit an application. To get started, visit the Maine Board of Nursing renewal login page and enter your credentials. Afterwards, click Renew Your License, type your license number, and continue making your way through the application. At some point, you’ll reach the payment step. The Maine nursing license renewalfee schedule is as follows:

• CNA: No fee
• LPN: $50
• RN: $75
• APRN: $100

For CNAs, the process is similar. Visit the Certified Nursing Assistant and Direct Care Worker Registry and click Renew an Active CNA Registry Listing. Afterward, type your license number, and provide all the necessary information.

Tip: Once you’ve completed the Maine nursing license renewal form and submitted your application, ensure to save a renewal confirmation and receipt for your personal records. They provide official proof that your renewal was submitted on time.

Great Areas in Maine for Nursing Jobs

Congratulations! Once your ME nursing license is renewed, you’re all set to explore job opportunities in the state. Here are some positions currently hiring:

• CNA jobs in Maine
• LPN jobs in Maine
• RN jobs in Maine
• NP jobs in Maine

You can also check out great nursing opportunities in some of this state’s most populous cities:

• Portland
• Lewiston
• Bangor
• South Portland
• Auburn

These Employers Are Hiring Nurses in Maine

Interested in applying directly to specific employers? Discover the latest nursing openings at Maine’s healthcare facilities:

• Armor Health
• Cary Medical Center
• Central Maine Healthcare
• Covenant Health
• Down East Community Hospital
• MaineGeneral Health
• MaineHealth
• Mount Desert Island Hospital

Want a break from bedside care? Nurses with a compact license can apply for telehealth roles in any NLC states (although some employers may have specific requirements). Other options include careers in education, research, or healthcare consulting, as well as side hustles like private duty care.

Find Great Nursing Jobs in Maine State

With your Maine nursing license renewal successfully complete, it’s time to explore some exciting job opportunities. Take a look at all nursing jobs in Maine that are available on IntelyCare, and discover the right match for you.