You may apply for this computer-based test year round and test during a 120-day window at a time and location convenient to you. The exam allows 3 hours to answer 150 questions (125 scored plus 25 pretest questions that are not scored). For exam prep resources, scroll down to view Study Aids. If you do not pass a certification exam, learn about retesting.
STEP 1: Review Pricing, Eligibility Requirements, and FAQsReview certification pricing and eligibility requirements below. FAQs provide a deeper dive into topics including online application, document submission, APRN and RN specialty certification requirements, and renewal requirements.
Prices above include $140 non-refundable administrative fee. Additional fees for special services may apply. See application for details. Discounts may be claimed for up to 5 business days after ANCC receives your application. Discount claims received after this time will not be honored and refunds will not be issued.
Hold a current, active RN license within a state or territory of the United States or the professional, legally recognized equivalent in another country Have practiced the equivalent of 2 years full-time as a registered nurse Have a minimum of 2,000 hours of clinical practice in the specialty area of medical-surgical nursing within the last 3 years Have completed 30 hours of continuing education in medical-surgical nursing within the last 3 years
Apply from Outside the U.S.
Learn about additional requirements for candidates outside the U.S.
To maintain certification, complete professional development requirements between the start and end dates of your certification, and provide this information on your renewal application.
CALENDAR Your Renewal DateCertifications are renewed every 5 years. You may submit a renewal application up to 1 year prior to your expiration. You may be ineligible to practice beyond your expiration date.
CREATE an ANCC AccountTrack professional development, mail preferences and purchases in one place. Online applications are also stored in your account. Visit Access My Account
UPDATE Contact InformationIf you move, change names or acquire a new phone or email, please update contact details in your account. Or email Customer Care or call 1.800.284.2378.
DISPLAY Your CredentialsLearn common questions and answers about displaying your credentials in the proper order.
Download How to Display Your Credentials.
TRACK PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WITH ANCC
Online renewal is simpler when you store professional development activities in your ANCC account immediately upon completion. At renewal, you can transfer stored information to the renewal application, saving time. Note: To renew online, you must store professional development activities before starting the online renewal application.
After each activity, gather proof of professional development. Click Track Professional Development to the right. Enter and save professional development activities. From account summary, top right column, under Professional Development find links to enter continuing education (contact hours), academic credits, presentations, publications/research, preceptorship and professional service. Log out.Renewal Certification Application
You may submit a renewal application up to 1 year prior to your expiration.
STEP 1: Review Requirements, FAQs, and PricingDownload renewal requirements Read renewal FAQs
Prices above include $140 non-refundable administrative fee. Additional fees for special services may apply. See application for details. Discounts may be claimed for up to 5 business days after ANCC receives your application. Discount claims received after this time will not be honored and refunds will not be issued.
STEP 2: Submit Renewal Application
Required: BEFORE starting a renewal application online, proof of professional development must be entered and stored in your ANCC online account. To record professional development activities go to Track Professional Development with ANCC. Then return to renew online.
RENEW ONLINE TRACK PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
RENEW BY MAILIf you would like to renew by mail, please send a request to certification@ana.org.
ANCC Retired Certified Nurse Recognition celebrates achievements for life!
