Last reviewed: July 2026
Not all Illinois LPN continuing education packages are the same. While many advertise 20 contact hours, it’s important to verify that the package also includes the Illinois-required continuing education topics that apply to your renewal. Before purchasing any CE package, compare the included courses with the current Illinois renewal requirements so you don’t discover a missing requirement at renewal time.
Illinois LPN CE Package Checklist
Before purchasing an Illinois LPN continuing education package, verify that it includes:
- 20 approved contact hours
- Sexual Harassment Prevention Training
- Implicit Bias Awareness Training
- Cultural Competency Education, when required for your renewal cycle
- Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias education, when applicable
- Online, self-paced courses from an approved continuing education provider
- Certificates available after successful course completion
Choosing a package based only on the total number of hours may not tell you whether it includes the required education topics that apply to your license.
Looking for one package that includes Illinois-required topics?
Why Total Hours Aren’t the Only Thing That Matters
Illinois generally requires Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to complete 20 approved contact hours during each renewal cycle.
However, Illinois also requires certain mandatory education topics. Some are required every renewal cycle, while others apply only under specific circumstances or on a longer schedule.
That’s why it’s important to review both the total number of contact hours and the courses included in the package.
Illinois Continuing Education Topics to Review
Sexual Harassment Prevention
Illinois requires one hour of sexual harassment prevention training as part of license renewal.
Make sure your CE package includes this course rather than requiring a separate purchase.
Implicit Bias Awareness
Illinois also requires implicit bias awareness education.
Many nurses overlook this requirement until renewal, so confirm it is included in your continuing education package.
Cultural Competency Education
Illinois requires cultural competency education for certain renewal periods.
If this requirement applies to your renewal, verify that your CE package includes an approved cultural competency course.
Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias Education
Depending on your practice and previous completion history, Illinois may require education related to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Review your renewal requirements and confirm whether this topic applies to you.
Questions to Ask Before Buying Any Illinois CE Package
Before purchasing, ask:
- Does the package include the mandatory topics that apply to my renewal?
- Are the courses offered by an approved continuing education provider?
- Can I complete everything online?
- Will I receive certificates after successfully completing each course?
- Can I access my certificates later if I’m selected for an audit?
These questions can help you compare packages based on more than just price or total contact hours.
Why Many Illinois LPNs Choose a Complete Package
Purchasing one package that includes the required continuing education topics can simplify the renewal process.
Instead of buying multiple individual courses, many Illinois LPNs prefer completing their continuing education through one online account with certificates available after each completed course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every Illinois LPN need the same continuing education topics?
Not necessarily. While Illinois LPNs generally complete 20 approved contact hours each renewal cycle, some mandatory education topics depend on the renewal cycle, previous training, or practice setting.
Is a 20-hour package automatically enough?
Not always. Before purchasing, review the included courses to make sure the package addresses the continuing education topics that apply to your renewal.
Can Illinois LPNs complete continuing education online?
Yes. Illinois permits approved continuing education to be completed through qualifying online providers.
How do I know whether a package includes everything I need?
Compare the package contents with the current Illinois renewal requirements and verify that it includes the mandatory education topics applicable to your license and renewal cycle.
Final Checklist Before Purchasing
Before enrolling in any Illinois LPN CE package, confirm that it:
- Includes at least 20 approved contact hours
- Covers the Illinois-required topics that apply to your renewal
- Offers online, self-paced courses
- Provides certificates after successful completion
- Comes from an approved continuing education provider
Taking a few minutes to compare packages now can help prevent last-minute surprises when it’s time to renew your Illinois LPN license.
This article summarizes current Illinois LPN continuing education requirements for informational purposes only. Requirements may change. Always verify current renewal requirements with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation before renewing your license.