Forgetting to renew your registration can stop you working as a nurse overnight. If your registration has lapsed, act quickly and follow your council’s readmission process.
Imagine arriving for your shift and being told you can’t work because your registration lapsed last week. A missed email or a failed payment caused it.
Why registrations lapse
- Missed renewal or revalidation deadlines
- Failed or expired payment cards
- Not meeting practice hours or CPD requirements
- Taking a long career break
- Moving abroad and not keeping registration up to date
Why it matters
In most countries it is illegal to practise or call yourself a registered nurse while your registration is lapsed. Your employer may have to stop you working, and you may not be paid.
How to restore registration
- Contact your nursing council or check its website for the readmission process
- Complete any required declarations about health and character
- Show you meet practice-hour and CPD requirements
- Pay any fees
- Tell your employer and follow its policy
Returning after a long break
If you haven’t practised for several years, you may need a return-to-practice course or supervised practice before you can register again. Requirements differ by country.
Frequently asked questions
How do I avoid lapsing?
Set calendar reminders, keep contact details up to date with your council and use automatic payments where available.
Can I work as a healthcare assistant while lapsed?
Possibly, but you cannot use the nurse title or carry out registered nurse duties. Check your employer’s policy.
But it was only a few days
Even a short lapse means you were not registered. Tell your employer and council honestly.
Your next step: Check your registration renewal date today and set two reminders before it.
Sources: Nursing and Midwifery Council (UK) readmission guidance, Ahpra, National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland.
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