Frequently Asked Questions

Military Exemption from Renewal

• I am active duty military. Do I need to renew my license?

  Minnesota Statutes, section 326.56 provides for an exemption for persons in the armed forces. As outlined in the Board of Nursing Rules (Minnesota Rule Part 6310.2800, subpart 10), a nurse whose nursing license registration was current at the time of entry into the armed forces does not need to renew registration.

• If I believe I am eligible for this exemption, do I need to inform the Board?

  Yes. You must notify the Board and provide evidence of active duty, such as a copy of your duty orders. The Board will update your renewal.

• How long is the exemption valid?

  The exemption from renewal ceases six months after discharge from active duty.

• If I stay in the military for several renewal periods, do I need to inform the Board every two years to maintain the exemption?

  The Board will send you a renewal form at the time a renewal application would normally be sent. You do not need to submit the application; however, you may be requested to reconfirm exempt status.

• If I choose to renew my license within the six months of discharge while the exemption is still effective, what do I need to do?

   You may submit the renewal application but will not need to submit a fee or verify continuing education (CE).

• When I have been discharged from active duty for six months and no longer qualify for the exemption, what steps must I take?

  You must complete the renewal application and return it with the required fee to the Board. You will also need to verify CE. The number of CE contact hours are calculated based on the number of months since the exemption ceased and according to the ratio specified in Minnesota Rule Part 6310.2800, subpart 3.

• If I have questions, how may I contact the Board?

  You may contact the Board:

  • by telephone locally: (612) 617-2271

  • toll-free within the five state area (MN, IA, ND, SD, WI): 1-888-234-2690

  • via e-mail: nursing.board@state.mn.us