California RN · CE certificates · BreEZe
Do you upload CE certificates when renewing?
For the ordinary CE step in a standard online renewal, the BRN guide asks whether you completed the required CE or qualify for an exemption. The certificates stay in your records unless the BRN or BreEZe requests proof for an audit, deficiency, status change, or another specific reason.
Short answer
Usually, no.Do not confuse an ordinary renewal with a CE audit or an account-specific document request.
What the BRN does require
4 yearsKeep certificates or grade slips as proof of CE completion in case of an audit. Your log helps locate the proof; it does not replace it.
Before opening BreEZe
Build a record you could explain later.
Reconcile the 30-hour total
For a standard active renewal, confirm that every counted course falls in the applicable renewal period and that the total reaches the BRN requirement.
Keep each original certificate
A spreadsheet or calendar entry helps you find a record, but it does not replace the completion certificate or grade slip.
Match the identifying details
Record the course title, provider, CEP number, completion date, and contact hours exactly as shown on the supporting proof.
Save the renewal evidence
Keep the BreEZe payment confirmation and verify the final public license status after submission.
Keep the sensitive files with you
Check the record without uploading it to ShiftProof.
The free proof check asks only whether the supporting details exist. It does not ask for a certificate, license number, name, or account login.
California RN CE certificate FAQ
Do I upload CE certificates with a standard California RN renewal?
In the ordinary CE step shown in the California BRN online renewal guide, the applicant answers whether the required CE was completed or an exemption applies. The BRN separately directs RNs to retain certificates or grade slips for four years in case of an audit. Follow any document request shown in your own BreEZe account.
What happens if the BRN selects me for a CE audit?
Follow the audit notice and provide the proof it requests by the stated deadline. Keep the original completion documents organized so each certificate can be matched to the hours claimed.
Is a CE spreadsheet enough proof?
No. A log is an index that helps reconcile the record; it is not a substitute for a completion certificate, grade slip, or other proof accepted by the BRN.
How long should I keep California RN CE certificates?
The California BRN says to retain certificates or grade slips for four years as proof of CE completion in the event of an audit.
When might a document request differ from an ordinary renewal?
An audit, a BreEZe deficiency, inactive-to-active status change, or another account-specific situation can require additional documents. Use the live BRN instructions and your own notice rather than relying on a generic checklist.
Official sources
Use the live account instruction when it differs.
An audit notice or BreEZe deficiency is specific to the licensee. Follow that request and resolve any discrepancy with the California BRN.
Reviewed August 29, 2026 from California BRN sources. ShiftProof is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the California BRN, DCA, or BreEZe.