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As of July 1, 2023, licensing and other health and occupational licenses will become part of the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) as a new organizational structure for state government goes into effect. Government departments and agencies that provide related services or have similar business functions are aligning to better serve Iowans.

Iowa Board of Nursing

Reinstatement Process for Sanctioned Licenses

Steps to take if you would like to request reinstatement of a sanctioned license:

There is not an application form for reinstatement of license. The term “application” as used in the Iowa Code means to make application.

You begin the reinstatement process by writing a letter stating why the circumstances that led to your encumbered license have been resolved, evidence to support that, and why it would be in the best interest of the Board to reinstate your license. If your license became encumbered due to substance abuse concerns you must submit a complete substance abuse evaluation, and if treatment was recommended, proof of completion of treatment and all required aftercare plus proof of one year of sobriety.

If your Board Order does not specify the amount of time from your last Board action of revoked, suspended or surrender of license until now, the time is one year from the date of Proof of Service of your final document approved by the Board.

You may also include supporting letters from employers, sponsors, counselors, probation officers, or prospective employers. You would begin this process by mailing this information with your current contact information to:

Chief Investigator
Iowa Board of Nursing
400 S.W. 8th Street, Suite B
Des Moines, Iowa 50309

Read the administrative rules (655 IAC 20.36) that explain how to submit an application for reinstatement of licensure, subsequent to disciplinary action by the Board of Nursing. Please read them carefully and completely, as your request will not be considered until you have complied with the requirements identified. Be sure to include your full name, address and phone number with your initial application materials.

Upon receipt, the information will be reviewed for completeness.

If your application is satisfactory, the matter will be assigned to an Investigator who will prepare your case for Board review. You may be asked to appear in person at a Board meeting hearing. If you have questions regarding this process, please contact the Enforcement Division at 515.281.6472 or e-mail the Enforcement Unit.