When do Missouri RN licenses expire, and what is the renewal window?
Missouri RN licenses expire on April 30 of each odd-numbered year (e.g., 2025, 2027, 2029). Licenses become eligible for renewal on February 1 of those years. There is no grace period — renewal must be completed at least 3 business days before April 30 of the renewal year. Nurses who miss this deadline have a lapsed license and cannot lawfully practice nursing until the license is reinstated.
Is Missouri part of the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC)?
Yes. Missouri joined the NLC in 2019. Missouri-licensed RNs who meet compact eligibility requirements hold a multistate license allowing them to practice in all other NLC member states without obtaining additional state licenses. Because Missouri imposes no CE requirement, Missouri compact nurses have no CE obligation tied to their Missouri renewal. Nurses who live in Missouri and hold a multistate license renew through the Missouri State Board of Nursing.
What happens if a Missouri RN misses the renewal deadline?
A Missouri RN whose license expires before renewal has a lapsed license. Practicing nursing with a lapsed license is illegal in Missouri under § 335.056(1) and may result in disciplinary action. RNs in this situation must pursue reinstatement rather than standard renewal. The specific reinstatement process and any additional requirements should be confirmed directly with the Missouri State Board of Nursing or the Division of Professional Registration.
Where can Missouri RNs renew their licenses?
Missouri RNs can renew their licenses through the Missouri Division of Professional Registration's online portal. The Board of Nursing page at https://pr.mo.gov/nursing.asp provides links to the renewal application and online services. RNs can also verify their license status and renewal date through the Division's licensee search tool.