Florida Nurse Fingerprint Requirements: A Step-by-Step Guide for Nurses
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Starting July 1, 2025, Florida implemented significant changes to nursing license requirements through House Bill 975. All nurses renewing their licenses after this date must now complete fingerprint screening as part of a Level 2 background check—a requirement that applies to nearly every healthcare practitioner licensed by the Florida Department of Health. Whether you’re an LPN, RN, or APRN, understanding these new fingerprint requirements protects you from license renewal delays and ensures uninterrupted practice.
This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of Florida’s new fingerprint requirement, from registering in the CHAI system to scheduling your appointment and understanding retention timelines. By planning ahead and completing these requirements during your 90-day renewal window, you can meet Florida’s new standards efficiently and maintain compliance with state regulations.
What Changed with Florida’s Fingerprint Requirements?
House Bill 975 expanded background screening requirements to include all healthcare practitioners licensed by the Florida Department of Health’s Division of Medical Quality Assurance. Previously, only certain professions required fingerprint screening for initial licensure. Now, the state mandates Level 2 background checks—which include both state and federal criminal history reviews—for license renewal.
The law specifically requires that existing licensees who did not undergo a Level 2 background screening before July 1, 2025, must complete fingerprint screening at their next license renewal. This applies regardless of when you originally obtained your license. If you received your initial Florida nursing license years ago without fingerprinting, you must now comply with these requirements to renew.
Level 2 background screening means the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation both review your criminal history through electronic fingerprint submission. This differs from name-based background checks, which can miss criminal records filed under variations of your name or in different jurisdictions.
Who Must Complete Florida Nurse Fingerprint Requirements?
Florida’s new requirements apply to Licensed Practical Nurses, Registered Nurses, and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses renewing their licenses after July 1, 2025. The mandate includes:
LPNs: All Licensed Practical Nurses whose licenses expire after July 1, 2025, must complete fingerprint screening if they did not undergo Level 2 screening when initially licensed.
RNs: Registered Nurses renewing after the July 1, 2025 effective date must submit fingerprints unless they completed Level 2 background screening at initial licensure.
APRNs: Advanced Practice Registered Nurses face the same requirement, with fingerprint screening mandatory for license renewal after July 1, 2025, if not previously completed.
Several healthcare professions received exemptions from these requirements, including emergency medical technicians, paramedics, pharmacy interns, registered pharmacy technicians, and radiologic technologists. These exemptions do not apply to nurses—LPNs, RNs, and APRNs must all comply.
If you hold multiple licenses (for example, both RN and APRN licenses), you must complete Florida nurse fingerprint requirements for each license renewal. The Florida Department of Health cannot process your renewal application without proof of completed background screening.
Understanding the CHAI System for Fingerprint Management
The Clearinghouse Applicant Initiated (CHAI) system serves as Florida’s centralized platform for managing fingerprint retention requirements. This online portal allows nurses to register, track fingerprint expiration dates, and initiate background screenings independently of license renewal applications.
CHAI connects to the Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse, which stores your fingerprints and continuously monitors for new criminal history through the federal Rap Back Service. This ongoing monitoring means that once your fingerprints enter the system, Florida can identify any new arrests or convictions that occur during your licensure period.
The system requires registration before you can proceed with fingerprint submission. You’ll create an account using your personal information, including your name exactly as it appears on your license, date of birth, and Social Security number. Accuracy matters—mismatched demographic information prevents the system from linking your fingerprints to your license application.
After registration, CHAI displays your fingerprint retention status and expiration date. The system generates email and mail reminders when your fingerprints approach expiration, typically sent 60 days before the retention period ends. However, you should verify your contact information regularly through your MQA Online account to ensure you receive these notifications.
Step-by-Step Process for Completing Florida Nurse Fingerprint Requirements
Following the correct sequence prevents delays and ensures your background screening results reach the Florida Board of Nursing properly.
Step 1: Register in the CHAI System
Visit the Florida HealthSource Background Screening page and locate the CHAI system registration link. The user guide provides detailed instructions if you encounter technical difficulties during registration.
Create your account by entering accurate demographic information. Use your legal name exactly as it appears on your driver’s license and nursing license. Provide your current Social Security number—this identifier links your fingerprints to your professional license.
Verify your email address and create a secure password. You’ll need these credentials to access CHAI throughout your career, as fingerprint retention requires renewal every five years.
Step 2: Locate an Approved Livescan Provider
Florida nurse fingerprint requirements include electronic fingerprint submission through approved Livescan service providers. These vendors operate specialized equipment that captures your fingerprints digitally and transmits results directly to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
The Florida HealthSource website maintains a current list of approved Livescan providers organized by county. You can schedule an appointment with any provider on this list, regardless of where you live or work in Florida.
Livescan providers set their own fees for fingerprinting services, typically ranging from $30 to $75 depending on location. This cost remains separate from the state’s fingerprint retention fee. Call ahead to confirm pricing, required identification, and appointment availability.
Step 3: Gather Required Documentation
Before your fingerprint appointment, collect specific information and documents:
ORI Number: The Florida Board of Nursing’s Originating Agency Identification number is EDOH4420Z. You must provide this exact code to the Livescan provider—incorrect ORI numbers prevent your results from reaching the Board of Nursing.
Government-Issued Photo ID: Bring your driver’s license, state ID, or passport. The name on this identification must match your nursing license registration.
Social Security Number: Livescan providers require your SSN to process fingerprints correctly.
Payment: Most providers accept cash, credit cards, or debit cards for the service fee.
Write down the ORI number (EDOH4420Z) before your appointment and verify it with the Livescan technician when you arrive. This simple step prevents the most common reason for background screening delays.
Step 4: Complete Fingerprinting Appointment
Arrive at your scheduled appointment with all required documentation. The Livescan technician will verify your identity, collect your demographic information, and capture your fingerprints electronically.
The fingerprinting process takes approximately 10-15 minutes. The technician rolls each finger across the electronic scanner, capturing high-quality images that meet FBI standards for identification.
Before leaving the appointment, request your Transaction Control Number (TCN). This unique identifier tracks your submission through the background screening process. Store your TCN safely—you may need it to verify submission status or resolve processing issues.
Background screening results typically reach the Florida Board of Nursing within 3-5 business days when submitted through a Livescan provider. However, processing times can extend during peak renewal periods or if the FBI needs to conduct additional research on your records.
Step 5: Verify Results in Your MQA Account
After completing fingerprinting, monitor your MQA Online Services account for background screening results. The Florida Department of Health updates your record once FDLE and FBI results arrive.
Log into your MQA account and navigate to your license profile. Look for confirmation that background screening requirements show as satisfied. This verification becomes especially important if you’re renewing close to your license expiration date.
If several weeks pass without updated screening status, contact the Board of Nursing at MQA.NursingAppstatus@flhealth.gov. Provide your TCN and license number to help staff locate your submission and investigate any delays.
Fingerprint Retention: The Five-Year Cycle
Florida law requires nurses to retain their fingerprints in the system for ongoing criminal history monitoring. Fingerprint retention lasts five years from your initial submission date, after which you must renew retention to maintain license eligibility.
When your fingerprint retention approaches expiration, CHAI sends reminders approximately 60 days in advance. You can renew retention through the CHAI system directly, paying the required fee without scheduling a new Livescan appointment. The system uses your existing fingerprints on file.
The current retention fee charged by FDLE is $43.25 per five-year period. If your fingerprint retention expires during your license renewal cycle, this fee automatically adds to your renewal charges. If retention expires within 60 days of your renewal date, you may need to pay separately through CHAI to avoid processing delays.
Nurses who allow fingerprint retention to lapse cannot renew their licenses until they submit new fingerprints through a Livescan provider. This process takes significantly longer than simple retention renewal, potentially causing practice interruptions if you miss the expiration date.
Timeline and Planning for Renewal
Florida nursing licenses renew biennially, with renewal periods opening 90-120 days before expiration. LPN licenses currently expire on July 31 of odd-numbered years, while RN and APRN licenses expire on various dates depending on birth month.
Starting your fingerprint process early prevents last-minute complications. Consider this recommended timeline:
120 Days Before Expiration: Check your fingerprint retention status in CHAI. If expiration falls during this renewal cycle, schedule retention renewal or a new Livescan appointment.
90 Days Before Expiration: Complete fingerprinting if needed. This window allows time for processing delays, technical issues, or scheduling difficulties with Livescan providers.
60 Days Before Expiration: Verify that background screening results appear in your MQA account. Complete continuing education requirements and prepare other renewal documentation.
30 Days Before Expiration: Submit your license renewal application through MQA Online Services. All requirements—including fingerprints, CE hours, and fees—must be satisfied by your expiration date.
Waiting until the final weeks before license expiration creates unnecessary risk. Background screening delays, Livescan appointment availability, or CHAI system issues can prevent timely renewal. The Florida Department of Health prohibits license renewal until fingerprint requirements show as complete.
Costs Associated with Fingerprint Requirements
Understanding the financial components of fingerprint requirements helps you budget for license renewal:
Livescan Service Fee: $30-$75 depending on provider location and services. This one-time fee covers the fingerprinting appointment.
FDLE Fingerprint Retention Fee: $43.25 for five years of retention. This fee appears automatically on your license renewal if retention expires during the renewal period.
License Renewal Fee: Standard renewal fees vary by license type and renewal timing:
- LPNs renewing before expiration: $80
- RNs renewing before expiration: $80
- APRNs renewing before expiration: $110
Late renewal penalties apply if you renew after your license expires. These fees increase significantly—up to double the standard renewal cost—and your license enters inactive status until you complete renewal requirements.
Total first-time fingerprint costs typically range from $150-$200 when combining the Livescan fee, FDLE retention fee, and renewal charges. Subsequent renewals cost less, as you only pay the retention fee every five years rather than scheduling new Livescan appointments.
Special Considerations for Out-of-State Nurses
Nurses living outside Florida when fingerprint requirements become due face additional logistical challenges. Florida recognizes two methods for out-of-state fingerprint submission:
Out-of-State Livescan: Some approved vendors operate locations outside Florida and can submit fingerprints electronically to FDLE. The Florida HealthSource website lists providers offering out-of-state services. Contact these vendors directly to verify they serve your geographic area.
Hard Card Submission: This alternative method involves completing paper fingerprint cards at local law enforcement agencies or fingerprinting services, then mailing physical cards to Florida for processing. Hard card submission takes significantly longer—often 4-6 weeks for processing—compared to electronic Livescan.
If you hold a Florida nursing license but practice in another state through the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact, you must still meet Florida’s fingerprint requirements at license renewal. The compact allows practice across state lines but doesn’t exempt you from home state renewal regulations.
International nurses face similar requirements. If you’re abroad when renewal becomes due, contact the Florida Board of Nursing early to discuss approved fingerprinting methods in your country. Some U.S. embassies and consulates offer fingerprinting services for American licensing purposes.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
Several issues repeatedly delay background screening completion. Understanding these pitfalls helps you navigate the process smoothly:
Incorrect ORI Number: Providing the wrong Originating Agency Identification number to your Livescan provider represents the most frequent error. The Board of Nursing never receives your results when fingerprints go to the wrong agency. Always verify EDOH4420Z with the technician before fingerprinting begins.
Mismatched Demographic Information: Your name, date of birth, and Social Security number must match exactly between your nursing license, CHAI registration, and Livescan submission. Even minor variations—like using “Kathy” on one form and “Katherine” on another—can prevent proper record linking.
Expired Fingerprint Retention: Nurses who completed initial fingerprinting years ago sometimes forget about the five-year retention requirement. CHAI sends reminders, but if you’ve changed addresses or email accounts without updating your MQA profile, you miss these notifications. Check retention status manually every time you log into CHAI.
Last-Minute Scheduling: Livescan providers often book appointments weeks in advance, especially during peak renewal periods. Waiting until 30 days before license expiration means you may not secure an appointment in time. Schedule fingerprinting as soon as your renewal period opens.
Waiting for CHAI Reminders: Don’t rely exclusively on automated notifications from CHAI. Proactively check your status through the system at least quarterly, particularly as your license renewal approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Fingerprint Requirements
Do I need new fingerprints if I was fingerprinted for initial licensure?
It depends on when and how you were fingerprinted. If you completed Level 2 background screening (state and federal criminal history checks) at initial licensure, your fingerprints should already be in the system. However, you must ensure fingerprint retention remains active. Check your CHAI account to verify retention status and expiration date.
What happens if my fingerprints are rejected?
Occasionally, the FBI cannot obtain readable prints due to factors like worn fingerprint ridges from frequent handwashing or previous injuries. In these cases, the Livescan provider will attempt recapture. If multiple attempts fail, contact the Florida Board of Nursing for guidance on alternative identification methods.
Can I renew my license while waiting for background screening results?
No. Florida law prohibits the Department of Health from renewing licenses until background screening requirements show as complete. You cannot practice on an expired license, even if you’ve submitted fingerprints and are waiting for results. This underscores the importance of completing fingerprinting early in your renewal window.
Do fingerprints from another state transfer to Florida?
Not automatically. While the Clearinghouse allows some reciprocity between states using the same system, you must verify that your fingerprints from another state appear in Florida’s CHAI system. If they don’t, you’ll need to complete Florida’s fingerprinting process.
How do I know if I completed Level 2 screening at initial licensure?
Check your CHAI account registration. If the system already has your fingerprints on file and shows an active retention period, you completed Level 2 screening previously. If CHAI shows no records, you need to complete the full fingerprinting process.
Continuing Education and License Renewal
While fingerprint requirements represent new compliance obligations, don’t forget Florida’s continuing education mandates. LPNs and RNs must complete 27 contact hours every two years, while APRNs need 30 contact hours for the same period.
Florida requires specific mandatory topics as part of your CE total:
- 2 hours on medical errors
- 2 hours on Florida laws and rules
- 2 hours on recognizing impairment in the workplace
- 2 hours on domestic violence
- 2 hours on human trafficking
- 1 hour on HIV/AIDS prevention
APRNs who prescribe controlled substances must also complete 3 hours on safe and effective opioid prescribing with each renewal cycle.
CE Ready offers comprehensive Florida renewal packages that satisfy all mandatory topics while meeting ANCC standards for quality continuing education. Our courses automatically report to CE Broker, streamlining your renewal process alongside fingerprint requirements.
Protecting Your License Through Proactive Compliance
Florida’s new fingerprint requirements add complexity to license renewal, but thoughtful planning prevents complications. By registering in CHAI early, scheduling fingerprinting during your 90-day renewal window, and monitoring your retention status regularly, you maintain continuous licensure without interruption.
The Florida Board of Nursing takes background screening seriously as a patient safety measure. These requirements help ensure that nurses practicing in Florida meet both professional competency standards and public safety expectations. While the added steps require time and expense, they protect the profession’s integrity and public trust.
Remember that fingerprint retention expires every five years, creating an ongoing compliance obligation throughout your nursing career. Calendar reminders set for six months before retention expiration give you ample time to renew retention before it lapses. This simple habit prevents emergency situations where expired retention threatens your ability to renew on time.
If you encounter difficulties at any stage—from CHAI registration to result verification—contact the Florida Board of Nursing promptly. Staff can troubleshoot issues, verify submission status, and provide guidance on resolving problems before they affect your license status.
Ready to Complete Your Florida License Renewal?
CE Ready supports Florida nurses through their Florida nurse fingerprint requirements. Our state-approved CE packages cover all mandatory topics required for Florida licensure, with automatic reporting to CE Broker that simplifies tracking. Whether you’re an LPN completing your first renewal under new requirements or an APRN managing complex CE needs, CE Ready provides quality education that counts.
Start your continuing education early, complete fingerprint requirements during your renewal window, and approach license renewal with confidence. With proper planning and reliable resources, maintaining your Florida nursing license remains straightforward despite changing requirements.
For more information about Florida nursing license renewal requirements and ANCC-approved continuing education courses, explore CE Ready’s complete course catalog designed specifically for busy nurses who value efficiency and quality.