Idaho § 54-1401 - Purpose - License required - Representation to the public
Full text of Idaho Idaho Statutes § 54-1401 — Purpose - License required - Representation to the public, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 54-1401. Purpose - License required - Representation to the public
In order to safeguard the public health, safety and welfare, it is in the public interest to regulate and control nursing in the state of Idaho, to promote quality health care services, to prohibit unqualified and dishonest persons from practicing nursing, and to protect against acts or conduct that may endanger the health and safety of the public.
(1) License required. It shall be unlawful for any person to practice nursing or offer to practice nursing unless that person is duly licensed pursuant to this chapter.
(2) Representation to the public. Only a person who holds a valid and current license to practice registered nursing in this state or a party state pursuant to sections 54-1408 and 54-1418 , Idaho Code, may use the title "nurse," "registered nurse," "graduate nurse" or "professional nurse" or the abbreviation "RN" or any other designations, titles or abbreviations to indicate that the person is practicing nursing in this state. Only a person who holds a valid and current license to practice practical nursing in this state or a party state pursuant to sections 54-1407 and 54-1418 , Idaho Code, may use the title "nurse," "licensed practical nurse," or the abbreviation "LPN" or any other designations, titles or abbreviations to indicate that the person is practicing nursing in this state.
(3) All applicants for original licensure and for license reinstatement shall submit to a fingerprint-based criminal history check in accordance with section 67-9411A , Idaho Code.
[54-1401, added 1977, ch. 132, sec. 2, p. 280; am. 2003, ch. 188, sec. 1, p. 510; am. 2004, ch. 268, sec. 1, p. 751; am. 2008, ch. 67, sec. 1, p. 172; am. 2012, ch. 142, sec. 1, p. 371; am. 2014, ch. 44, sec. 1, p. 116; am. 2024, ch. 101, sec. 1, p. 447.]
Source: official Idaho text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Idaho § 54-1401
What does Idaho Statutes § 54-1401 cover?
Section 54-1401 ("Purpose - License required - Representation to the public") is part of the Idaho Statutes, the codified statutory law of Idaho. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Idaho § 54-1401?
A common citation format is "Idaho Statutes § 54-1401" (Idaho). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Idaho law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Idaho official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Idaho attorney.
How does Idaho § 54-1401 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Idaho can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Idaho.