Nurse crouched down talking to pediatric patient

Understanding California’s Implicit Bias CE Requirement for New Nurses

In California, continuing education (CE) is a cornerstone of maintaining a competent and culturally sensitive nursing workforce. As of January 1, 2023, a new requirement has been implemented that specifically targets newly licensed registered nurses (RNs). This mandate, established under Assembly Bill 1407 (AB 1407) and codified in Business and Professions Code (BPC) Section 2811.5, reflects California’s commitment to reducing health disparities through education in implicit bias.

Who Is Affected?

This requirement applies to:

  • Newly licensed RNs in California
  • Within the first two years of their initial licensure

If you fall into this category, you are required to complete one hour of direct participation in an approved implicit bias training course.

What Is Implicit Bias Training?

Implicit bias refers to unconscious attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions in an unconscious manner. In healthcare, these biases can contribute to disparities in patient care and outcomes.

Implicit bias education for nurses is designed to:

  • Increase awareness of personal biases
  • Promote equitable patient care
  • Encourage self-reflection and inclusive decision-making

Course Requirements

  • Length: One (1) hour
  • Format: Direct participation (this may include live, interactive, or structured asynchronous learning)
  • Provider: Must be a continuing education provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN)

To verify whether a course provider is BRN-approved, nurses can use the DCA License Search.

Satisfy the Requirement with Pedagogy Education

Pedagogy Education offers an approved course specifically designed to meet the California BRN’s implicit bias education requirement for nurses.

Implicit Bias for California Healthcare Professionals is a one-hour, online course that provides direct participation credit. It explores the roots and impacts of implicit bias in healthcare, offers tools for self-reflection, and supports the development of bias-reducing practices.

This course is:

  • Approved by the California BRN
  • Accessible online and on-demand
  • Written specifically for California healthcare professionals, including RNs and LVNs

Final Thoughts for Nurses

If you're newly licensed in California, meeting this requirement is a critical part of starting your nursing career. But more than a regulatory obligation, this training is a meaningful opportunity to deepen your understanding of how unconscious bias can affect patient care—and what you can do to improve health outcomes for all.

Make sure you choose a trusted, BRN-approved provider like Pedagogy Education to fulfill this requirement. Completing your implicit bias training now not only keeps you compliant—it helps you grow as a culturally responsive nurse ready to serve California’s diverse communities.