NP Advanced Practice

Colorado Nurse Practitioner License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Colorado

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$75

Renewal Period

2 years

Practice Authority

full

Official source: licensing in Colorado is administered by the Colorado Board of Nursing. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Colorado.

Apply on Official Site

Full Practice Authority

Full practice authority without physician oversight

Prescriptive Authority: Provisional authority first; 1,000-hour mentorship required for full authority

1 Education Requirements

Degree Required

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Program Requirements

Complete accredited Nurse Practitioner program
Hold active RN license in the state
Clinical hours as specified by program

2 National Certification

Certification Body

ANCC or AANPCB

Required

Yes

American Nurses Credentialing Center or American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board

3 Background Check

Fingerprint-based criminal background check

FBI and state background check required

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$75
Total	$75

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$108

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

2 hours substance use prevention for Rx holders

Prerequisites

To become a Nurse Practitioner in Colorado, you must first hold an active RN license. Colorado is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you may hold a multistate RN license.

RN Requirements View Colorado RN Requirements

Colorado NP License FAQs

How much does an NP license cost in Colorado?

Expect about $75 in total initial NP license costs in Colorado, including a $75 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Colorado Board of Nursing.

How many CE hours do NPs need to renew in Colorado?

Colorado NPs must complete 2 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $108.

How long does it take to get an NP license in Colorado?

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 8 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues NP licenses in Colorado?

The Colorado Board of Nursing handles NP license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 303-894-2430.