Introduction
Nebraska's rural healthcare landscape and IMLC membership make it an important state for physicians serving underserved communities. The Nebraska Board of Medicine and Surgery (under DHHS) requires 50 hours of Category 1 CME biennially with generous carryover provisions.
As a member of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC), Nebraska offers expedited multistate licensing. This guide covers everything you need to know about Nebraska medical license renewal in 2026.
Nebraska Board of Medicine and Surgery Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Authority | Board of Medicine and Surgery |
| Parent Agency | Nebraska DHHS |
| Renewal Cycle | Biennial (every 2 years) |
| IMLC Status | Member State |
| Phone | (402) 471-2118 |
| dhhs.medicaloffice@nebraska.gov |
Nebraska Medical License Fees (2026)
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Biennial Renewal | $121.00 | Among lowest nationally |
| Initial Application | $300.00 | Physician license |
| PA Renewal | $110.00 | Biennial |
Source: Nebraska DHHS
Last verified: January 22, 2026
CME Requirements
Basic CME Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Hours | 50 Category 1 hours per 2 years |
| Credit Type | AMA PRA Category 1 |
| Carryover | Up to 24 hours |
Carryover Provision
Nebraska allows up to 24 hours of excess CME to carry over to the next renewal cycle. This provides flexibility for physicians who complete additional education.
Opioid Prescribing Requirement
Physicians who prescribe controlled substances must complete at least 3 hours of CME biennially regarding prescribing opioids, of which 0.5 hours must cover PDMPs (Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs).
Online Renewal Process
- Access DHHS Portal: Visit Nebraska DHHS licensing
- Login: Use your existing credentials
- Complete Application: Answer all required questions
- Certify CME: Attest to 50 hours including opioid training (if applicable)
- Pay Fee: Submit $121
- Save Confirmation: Keep receipt for records
Inactive Status
You may place your license on inactive status at any time by sending a written request to dhhs.medicaloffice@nebraska.gov.
Consequences of Non-Renewal
| Status | Consequence |
|---|---|
| After deadline | Late fees apply |
| License expired | Cannot practice in Nebraska |
| Practice while expired | Disciplinary action |
Nebraska-Specific Considerations
One of Lowest Renewal Fees
At $121 biennially, Nebraska has one of the lowest physician license renewal fees in the nation.
CME Carryover
The 24-hour carryover provision rewards proactive CME completion and provides planning flexibility.
Rural Healthcare Focus
Nebraska's rural healthcare needs create opportunities for physicians interested in underserved communities. Various incentive programs exist for rural practice.
IMLC Membership
Nebraska is a member of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact. This facilitates multistate practice for physicians serving rural communities across state lines.
PDMP Requirement
The specific 0.5-hour PDMP training requirement ensures controlled substance prescribers understand Nebraska's prescription monitoring system.
Key Takeaways
- 50 hours of Category 1 CME per biennial period
- Up to 24 hours can carry over to next cycle
- $121 renewal fee—among lowest nationally
- 3 hours opioid CME for controlled substance prescribers
- 0.5 hours must cover PDMP
- Nebraska is an IMLC member state
Conclusion
Nebraska offers one of the most affordable license renewal fees in the nation combined with a manageable 50-hour CME requirement and generous carryover provisions. The rural healthcare focus and IMLC membership make it attractive for physicians serving underserved populations.
Use CredentialMate to track your CME progress, monitor carryover credits, and ensure PDMP training compliance for Nebraska's opioid prescribing requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many CME hours does Nebraska require?
Nebraska requires 50 hours of AMA PRA Category 1 CME per biennial period. Up to 24 hours of excess credits can carry over to the next cycle.
What is the opioid CME requirement in Nebraska?
Physicians who prescribe controlled substances must complete 3 hours of CME on opioid prescribing biennially, with 0.5 hours specifically covering PDMP (Prescription Drug Monitoring Program).
How much does Nebraska license renewal cost?
The biennial renewal fee is $121—one of the lowest in the nation.
Can I carry over CME credits in Nebraska?
Yes. Nebraska allows up to 24 hours of excess CME to carry over to the next renewal cycle.
Is Nebraska part of the IMLC?
Yes, Nebraska is a member of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact. This facilitates multistate practice, especially for serving rural communities.
References
[1]: Nebraska DHHS - Medicine and Surgery
https://dhhs.ne.gov/licensure/pages/medicine-and-surgery.aspx
[2]: AMA Ed Hub - Nebraska CME Requirements
https://edhub.ama-assn.org/state-cme/Nebraska
[3]: IMLC - Participating States
https://www.imlcc.org/participating-states/