Colorado Nursing License

Becoming a licensed nurse in Colorado requires meeting educational, exam, and application requirements set by the Colorado Board of Nursing. Whether you’re an aspiring Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or an advanced nurse practitioner, this guide outlines everything you need to know to obtain your Colorado Nursing License.

Additionally, passing nursing licensure exams is critical for approval—this is where Ulosca.com comes in as the best prep test platform offering exact questions and answers to help you ace your nursing exams with confidence

Types of Colorado Nursing Licenses

The state of Colorado offers various nursing license types, including:

• • Registered Nurse (RN) License 
  • Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License 
  • Nurse Practitioner (NP) License 
  • Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) License 
  • Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) License

Each license type comes with specific educational and examination requirements, which we explore below.

How to Get a Colorado Nursing License

Colorado is a beautiful state to live and work in, and it’s even better when you’re a licensed nurse here! The Colorado Board of Nursing is responsible for issuing licenses for both Registered Nurses (RN) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN).

There are two main ways to earn your license:

1. By examination – for all the fresh grads out there.
2. By endorsement – for nurses already licensed in another state and looking to switch over.

You can choose between a Single-State License (SSL) if you plan to work only in Colorado, or a Multistate License (MSL) if Colorado is your primary residence and you want flexibility across compact nursing states under the eNLC.

Here are your basic steps:

• Graduate from an approved nursing program
• Pass the NCLEX Colorado exam
• Submit your application through the Colorado Nurse Portal
• Get fingerprinted for a background check
• Pay the required fee
• Wait for approval—and voilà! Nurse badge unlocked. 

Nursing Test Banks

Test Bank #1 ATI RN Pediatric Nursing

Test Bank #2 Pediatrics Nur 335 Exam

Test Bank #3 RN fundamentals Exam

Test Bank #4 Nurs 255 B Adult Health 1

Test Bank #5 BSN 246/ASN 241-RN Health Assessment

Test Bank #6 BSN 266/ASN 261 -RN Medical

Test Bank #7 BSN 315/ASN 311 -RN Pharmacology

Test Bank #8 BSN 366 Exit Exam

Test Bank #9 PNR 106 Foundations of Nursing

Test Bank #10 HESI Fundamental

Colorado Board of Nursing

The Colorado Board of Nursing (a division of the Colorado DORA—that’s the Department of Regulatory Agencies) is your go-to for everything license-related. They manage applications, renewals, discipline, and continuing education.

You’ll interact with the board when:

• Applying for your license
• Renewing it
• Uploading CE certificates
• Checking updates through the Colorado Nurse Portal

So yep, you’ll want to get friendly with them. 

Colorado RN License Requirements and Application

Let’s break this down:

Education

First, you’ll need to graduate from a Colorado Board of Nursing-approved RN program. This could be a diploma, associate’s degree, or bachelor’s degree.

NCLEX-RN Exam

Register through Pearson VUE, and make sure your details (especially your name and Social Security Number) match exactly with what you submitted to the board. The NCLEX Colorado is your golden ticket!

Application Process

Complete the application on the Colorado Nursing License Online portal. Choose either a single- or multistate license. Don’t forget to include:

• A valid SSN
• Proof of citizenship or legal presence

Transcripts

Submit official transcripts from your school. These can be sent electronically via Parchment, eScrip-Safe, or similar platforms.

Fingerprinting & Background Check

Register with FieldPrint (the approved vendor) to get fingerprinted for both state and federal checks.

Fees

• Initial Licensure Fees:$90 for in-state programs and $110 for out-of-state programs

• Application Fee: $88 (for new licensees).
• NCLEX-RN Exam Fee: $200.
• Fingerprint Processing Fee: $51. 
• RN License Renewal Fee: $110, every six years.
• Continuing Education: Two contact hours of education and training on mental health screening and suicide prevention. 

• Endorsement Fees:$90.
• Application Fee for Endorsement: $70.

Other Requirements

• You can’t hold an active multistate license in another compact state
• Must be of good moral character (basically, a clean legal history)

RN Licensure for New Nurses

RN Licensure Eligibility Requirements

• Graduation from an approved program
• Passing the NCLEX Colorado
• Clean background check

Steps to Apply for RN License

• Complete application
• Pay fee
• Upload documents
• Pass the exam
• Wait for your license!

Licensure for Nurses from a Different State

Steps to Apply for Out-of-State RN License

This is called Colorado Nursing License by Endorsement.

• Provide proof of current licensure
• Submit verification through Nursys License Verification
• Meet Colorado’s standards
• Complete the fingerprint/background check
• Pay the fee
• Wait for the green light from the Board

Wondering how long to get a Colorado nursing license by endorsement? On average, 4–6 weeks, depending on how fast you submit your documents. 

Colorado LPN License Requirements and Application

LPN Licensure for New Nurses

LPN Licensure Eligibility Requirements

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Colorado as a new graduate, you must:

• Graduate from an approved nursing program: Complete a state-approved practical nursing program.
• Pass the NCLEX-PN exam: Successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
• Submit fingerprints and pass a background check: Undergo a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
• Provide a valid Social Security Number (SSN): If you don’t have an SSN, complete the SSN Affidavit form and submit it to the Board.
• Complete the online application: Apply through the Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations (DPO) online services.
• Pay the required fees: Application fee of $88, NCLEX fee of $200, and fingerprint processing fee of $51.

Steps to Apply for LPN License

1. Complete an approved nursing program: Ensure your program is recognized by the Colorado Board of Nursing.
2. Register for the NCLEX-PN: Register with Pearson VUE and pay the examination fee.
3. Submit your application online: Use the Colorado DPO online services to apply for licensure.
4. Provide official transcripts: Submit transcripts from your nursing program.
5. Undergo fingerprinting and background check: Schedule fingerprinting through an approved vendor and complete the background check.
6. Await licensure approval: Once all requirements are met and approved, you’ll receive your Colorado LPN license.

Licensure for Nurses from a Different State

Steps to Apply for Out-of-State LPN License

If you’re already licensed as an LPN in another state and wish to practice in Colorado, follow these steps for licensure by endorsement:

1. Complete the online application: Apply for licensure by endorsement through the Colorado DPO online services.
2. Pay the associated fees: Application fee of $43, license verification fee of $30, and fingerprint processing fee of $51.
3. Provide a valid Social Security Number (SSN): If you don’t have an SSN, complete the SSN Affidavit form and submit it to the Board.
4. Verify your original state of licensure:

• • If your state participates in Nursys: Complete the Nursys verification process, pay their fee, and designate Colorado as the recipient.
  • If your state does not participate in Nursys: Contact your state’s Board of Nursing to submit an official Verification of License form to the Colorado Board of Nursing.

5. Submit verification of current and active licenses: Provide a copy of your current license or a printout from your state’s website verifying your license.

6. Complete the Affidavit of Eligibility: Attest to and provide information that you are lawfully present in the United States or otherwise eligible to work here.

7. Undergo fingerprinting and background check: Schedule fingerprinting through an approved vendor and complete the background check.

Note: Colorado is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). If you hold a multistate license from another compact state and Colorado is not your primary state of residence, you may practice in Colorado without obtaining a separate license. 

However, if you move to Colorado and declare it as your primary residence, you must apply for licensure by endorsement

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NCLEX Exam Information (RN & LPN)

To become a licensed Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Colorado, you’ll need to complete an application for licensure with the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). 

This involves applying for the NCLEX exam and submitting various documents, including proof of education, background check results, and a completed healthcare professional profile. 

Steps for Applying for NCLEX and Licensure in Colorado:

1. Complete an application for Licensure by Endorsement/Exam online: This is done through the Colorado Online Licensing System. 
2. Apply for the NCLEX: Once you’ve graduated, you’ll apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN). 
3. Provide proof of nursing education: This includes official transcripts from an approved nursing program. 
4. Background check and fingerprinting: You’ll need to submit fingerprints for a background check, as well as complete a criminal history screening questionnaire. 
5. Declare Colorado as your primary state of residence: You’ll need to provide documentation to support this claim. 
6. Submit a Healthcare Professions Profile: This profile will be added to an online database. 
7. Pay the application fee: There is a fee associated with applying for the NCLEX and licensure. 

Additional Notes:

You can find more detailed information and resources on the Colorado Board of Nursing website.  Ace it with help from Ulosca.com’s NCLEX prep resources.

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Licensure for International (Foreign-Educated) Nurses

To obtain an RN license in Colorado as a foreign-educated nurse, you must first have your foreign credentials evaluated by a recognized agency like the CGFNS International. You’ll then need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and meet other Colorado Board of Nursing requirements. 

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the steps:

1. Credentials Evaluation:

• Evaluate your foreign credentials: Submit your foreign nursing education and license transcripts for evaluation by a recognized agency like CGFNS International.

• Obtain a Professional Report: This report from CGFNS verifies your credentials and compares them to US standards.

• Consider CGFNS Certification: If you plan to apply for certification, it involves a credentials evaluation, the CGFNS Qualifying Exam, and demonstrating English proficiency. 

2. English Language Proficiency:

If applicable: If your native language is not English, you may need to pass an English language proficiency exam, such as the IELTS or TOEFL. 

3. Apply for NCLEX-RN and Colorado License:

• Apply to the Colorado Board of Nursing: After having your credentials evaluated and meeting other requirements, you’ll need to apply to the Colorado Board of Nursing for licensure by examination. 
• Register for NCLEX-RN: You’ll need to register with Pearson VUE https://www.nursinglicensure.org/state/nursing-license-colorado/  to take the NCLEX-RN exam. 
• Pass the NCLEX-RN: You must successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam to be eligible for licensure. 

4. Additional Requirements:

• Complete the application: Ensure you complete the application for licensure by endorsement/exam.
• Provide necessary documents: You’ll need to provide your Social Security number, complete the Affidavit of Eligibility, declare Colorado as your primary residence, and potentially provide documentation for name changes.
• Fingerprinting: Submit fingerprints for background checks.
• Screening questions: Answer general and criminal history screening questions and provide supporting documentation if needed.
• Healthcare Professions Profile: Complete the Healthcare Professions Profile.
• Pay fees: Submit the required application fees.

Nurse Licensure Compact (Multistate License)

A multistate license allows a nurse to practice in any state that is a member of the NLC. Do I have a choice to apply for a multistate or a single state Colorado license? No. The compact license is the default license in Colorado.

Colorado Nursing Continuing Education Requirements

General Requirements:

• Colorado does not require continuing education (CE) for license renewal for Registered Nurses (RNs) or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs).
• Instead, nurses are required to participate in a Continuing Competency Program (CCP).

Continuing Competency Program Includes:

• Self-Assessment – Evaluate your knowledge and skills using the Board’s tool.
• Learning Plan – Create a plan based on your self-assessment.
• Professional Development Activities (PDAs) – Complete activities like workshops, CE courses, precepting, or academic coursework.
• Documentation – Maintain records of your activities and learning plan for a minimum of 2 renewal cycles (4 years).

First-Time Renewal:

• New graduates or newly licensed nurses may be exempt from the Continuing Competency Program for their first renewal.

Important Notes:

• CE hours are not mandated, but you may use CE courses to meet your Professional Development Activities requirement.
• Keep documentation of all activities. The Board may request it if you’re audited.

You can find full details and the self-assessment tool on the Colorado Board of Nursing Continuing Education page.

Salary for Nurses in Colorado

Careers as a nurse salaries above were retrieved from the Bureau of Labor Statistics – State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates Colorado in May 2024.

Colorado Nursing License Lookup

The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) provides a free and user-friendly online License Lookup Tool that allows employers, patients, and nurses themselves to verify the license status of Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), and other professionals regulated by the state.

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How to Use the Colorado License Lookup Tool

You can access the tool via Colorado DORA License Lookup. Here’s how to use it:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Go to the Lookup Portal: Visit the official site here.
2. Choose Search Type: You can search by:
   • Licensee/Company Name
   • License Number
   • Credential Type
3. Enter the Information: Fill in at least one field (e.g., last name or license number).
4. View Results: The tool displays:
   • Full name and credential
   • License number
   • Status (Active, Expired, Suspended, etc.)
   • Original issue date and expiration date
   • Disciplinary actions (if any)

Key Features of the License Lookup

• • Real-time verification: Information is updated regularly by the Colorado Board of Nursing.

• Search by individual or facility

• • License history: View issuance and expiration dates
  • Disciplinary history: Find records of public disciplinary actions

• Credential types covered:

• • Registered Nurse (RN)
  • Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
  • Nurse Aide (CNA)
  • Advanced Practice Nurses (e.g., NP, CRNA, CNS)

Why Use License Lookup?

• For Employers: Confirm that a nurse’s license is active and valid before hiring.
• For Nurses: Ensure your information is correctly listed and publicly visible.
• For Patients: Verify the legitimacy and standing of a healthcare provider.

Maintaining and Renewing Your Colorado Nursing License

To renew a Colorado nursing license, nurses can access the Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations Online Services portal and complete the online renewal process. The portal typically opens approximately 4-6 weeks before the license expiration date. 

Nurses should log in to their account, fill out the renewal application, and pay the $43 fee. Colorado does not have continuing education requirements for license renewal. 

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

1. Access the Online Services Portal:

• Go to the Colorado DORA website.
• Log in to your account using your username and password. 

2. Complete the Renewal Application:

• Update your personal information.
• Answer any necessary questions about your practice history and disciplinary status. 

3. Pay the Renewal Fee:

• The renewal fee is $43 for RNs in Colorado.
• Fees may be subject to change, so it’s best to verify the latest amount on the DORA website. 

4. Important Reminders:

• Renewals open approximately 4-6 weeks before your license’s expiration date. 
• There are no mandatory continuing education requirements in Colorado for license renewal. 
• If your license expires, you need to apply for reinstatement. Reinstatement requires submitting a fingerprint background check and may have other requirements depending on how long your license was inactive. 

5. License Expiration Dates:

• Colorado RN licenses generally expire on September 30th of each year. 
• The specific year your license expires depends on when it was initially issued (odd or even-numbered years). 

6. Reinstatement:

• If your license has expired, you must apply for reinstatement.
• The reinstatement process may require submitting a fingerprint background check and potentially other documents.
• If your license has been inactive for less than five years, there are typically no additional education requirements.

Colorado Board of Nursing License Renewal Online

Online renewal is the way to go—it’s fast, simple, and you can do it in pajamas. Colorado nurses can renew their licenses online through the Division of Professions and Occupations (DPO) portal. The renewal process is designed to be efficient and user-friendly.

Benefits of Online License Renewal

• 24/7 Access: Nurses can renew licenses anytime, anywhere with internet access.
• Quick Confirmation: Immediate confirmation of submission with a printable receipt.
• Secure Transactions: All information is encrypted and protected.
• Eco-Friendly: Paperless processing reduces waste and speeds up the process.

Temporary Permits and Reinstatement

Temporary Permits: Colorado does not typically issue temporary permits for RN or LPN applicants unless otherwise authorized during emergencies or special provisions.

Reinstatement of Lapsed Licenses:

• If your license has lapsed, you must apply for reinstatement.
• The reinstatement application is available via the Colorado DPO portal.

• Requirements may include:

• • Proof of continued competency (practice hours or CE),
  • Payment of reinstatement and renewal fees,
  • Updated background checks if applicable

Addressing Regulatory Questions and Disclosures

When applying for or renewing your Colorado nursing license, you’ll need to answer a few yes/no questions about your background. Here’s what to expect — and how to handle it.

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Example 1: Criminal History

Question: Have you ever been convicted of a crime?
If NO: Just say No.
If YES:

• Say what happened
• When and where it happened
• What the outcome was (like a fine or probation)
• Be honest — hiding it is worse than having a record

Example 2: License Trouble

Question: Have you had any problems with a nursing or healthcare license in any state?
If YES:

• Explain what happened
• Include the state and board
• Say what the result was (like a warning or suspension)

Example 3: Health Issues

Question: Do you have a health condition that could affect your nursing work?
If YES:

• Only say yes if it affects your job right now
• You can say you’re being treated or are stable
• You might need a doctor’s note

Example 4: Work Trouble

Question: Have you been fired or resigned from a healthcare job because of unsafe practice or bad behavior?
If YES:

• Briefly say what happened
• Add when and where
• Keep it simple and honest

Example 5: Ongoing Issues

Question: Are you being investigated or involved in a legal case about your work?
If YES:

• Say what it’s about
• Share what stage it’s in (pending, ongoing, etc.)

Tips

• Always tell the truth — even if it’s uncomfortable
• “Yes” isn’t always a deal-breaker
• Keep explanations short and clear
• Have paperwork ready (if needed)

Best Hospitals to Work as a Nurse in Colorado

If you’re a nurse seeking top-tier hospitals in Colorado that offer excellent work environments, professional growth, and patient care, here’s a curated list of some of the best hospitals to work for in the state:

UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital (Aurora)

• Highlights: Ranked #1 in Colorado by U.S. News & World Report for 2022–23.
• Specialties: Nationally ranked in multiple adult specialties.
• Nursing Excellence: Four-time Magnet designation, reflecting outstanding nursing practices.
• Opportunities: As a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Colorado School of Medicine, it offers abundant opportunities for professional development.

Saint Joseph Hospital (Denver)

• Highlights: Ranked #2 in Denver and #3 in Colorado.
• Specialties: High-performing in multiple procedures and conditions.
• Work Environment: Recognized for its commitment to employee satisfaction and patient care.

Rose Medical Center (Denver)

• Highlights: Known as Denver’s “Baby Hospital” with a strong reputation in women’s health.
• Awards: Consistently receives high marks for patient safety and experience.
• Workplace Recognition: Named a Denver Post Top Workplace multiple times.

These hospitals not only provide exceptional patient care but also foster environments where nurses can thrive professionally. 

Whether you’re seeking opportunities in urban centers like Denver or in other regions of Colorado, these institutions represent some of the best places to advance your nursing career.

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 Resources for Nurses in Colorado

Ulosca.com – Your Ultimate Study Companion

Looking for a one-stop platform to simplify your nursing journey? Ulosca.com is here to help!
Whether you’re studying for the NCLEX, brushing up on nursing concepts, or preparing for exams like ATI or HESI, Ulosca offers:

• Comprehensive study guides
• Ready-to-use test banks
• Instant downloads
• Real exam-style questions

It’s your go-to site for hassle-free prep and confidence-boosting resources—perfect for both students and licensed nurses in Colorado!

Colorado State Nurses Association (CSNA)

Your professional support system!
The CSNA offers a powerful network for Colorado nurses looking to grow and stay informed. Benefits include:

• Networking opportunities
• Continuing education (CE) resources
• Legislative advocacy
• Support for leadership development

Colorado State Board of Nursing

Where the licensing magic happens
This is your official source for all things licensure, from applying and renewing to checking license status or addressing regulatory questions.

• License applications & renewals
• CE requirements
• License lookup tool
• Legal & regulatory guidance

Colorado Nursing Licenses FAQs

How Long Does it Take to Get a Colorado Nursing License?

It generally takes around 8 weeks for the Colorado Board of Nursing to process a nursing license application after all required documents are received. However, the exact timeframe can vary based on the application type and individual circumstances.

What’s the Colorado Nursing License Cost?

The cost of a Colorado nursing license varies depending on whether you are applying for licensure through examination (first-time applicants) or endorsement (for nurses with existing licenses in other states). 

The application fee is $88 for both methods. Additionally, there are fees for NCLEX (the licensing exam) and potentially fingerprinting.

What Happens If You Let Your Nursing License Expire in Colorado?

In Colorado, if your nursing license expires and you don’t renew it within the 60-day grace period, your license becomes inactive, and you cannot legally practice nursing. 

To practice again, you’ll need to apply for reinstatement, which may involve fingerprinting and a background check. There are no additional education requirements for reinstatement if your license has been inactive for less than five years.

Does Colorado Give Temporary License?

Yes, Colorado does issue temporary nursing licenses, primarily for nurses seeking licensure by endorsement and for new graduates awaiting NCLEX results. Temporary licenses are typically valid for a limited period, usually four months, pending the completion of requirements for full licensure.

How Long Can You Not Work and Keep Your Nursing License?

In Colorado, a nursing license can remain active even if you’re not working, but it needs to be renewed periodically. If you don’t renew within the 60-day grace period after the expiration date, your license becomes inactive and you need to apply for reinstatement. 

If your license is inactive for more than five years, you may need to demonstrate competency to the Colorado State Board of Nursing.

Colorado Nursing Licenses Final Note

Getting your Colorado Nursing License might feel like a lot, but with the right info and a little support, it’s totally doable.

If you’re prepping for the NCLEX or need help organizing your path, Ulosca.com has your back. From study tools to cheat sheets and everything in between, we’re here to help you pass with confidence (and maybe even a smile).

Now, go crush those nursing dreams in Colorado!