ARNP - Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner

The Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) certification is designed for registered nurses who aim to advance their careers by gaining expertise in specialized areas of healthcare. ARNP certification is offered through various organizations, depending on the specialty, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), and Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB), among others. This certification validates a nurse's advanced clinical knowledge and skills, providing recognition as an expert in a specific area of nursing practice.

Cost: Varies by organization, typically $200 - $395

The format for ARNP certification varies depending on the specialty and certifying body. Generally, it includes a comprehensive examination covering advanced nursing practices, patient care, and specialty knowledge areas. The exam format usually consists of multiple-choice questions, and in some cases, clinical simulations or situational judgment questions may be included.

Exam Length: Typically ranges from 3 to 4 hours.

Question Format: Primarily 150 multiple-choice, scenario-based questions (135 scored, 15 unscored)

Passing Criteria: Varies by organization, usually based on a scaled score. For example, the AANP exam is scored on a 200- to 800-point scale and requires a minimum score of 500 to pass. 

Candidates must choose to pursue certification in a specific specialty area such as Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology, Pediatrics, or Psychiatric-Mental Health.

1. Education: Hold a Master’s or Doctoral degree in nursing from an accredited program.

2. Experience: Varying levels of clinical experience, as specified by the certifying body.

3. Application: Submit an application to the respective organization, including proof of education and experience.

4. Exam: Successfully pass the certification exam.

5. Certification Issuance: Receive digital and/or physical certification upon passing the exam.

ARNP certification typically requires renewal every 5 years. The renewal process includes:

1. Fulfilling continuing education requirements, which vary by specialty and certifying body.

2. Submitting proof of continuing education and any additional clinical practice hours required.

3. Paying a renewal fee, which varies by organization.

ARNPs must complete a specific number of continuing education (CE) hours to maintain certification. CE requirements vary by specialty and certifying body, and may include clinical practice hours, lectures, workshops, and academic courses.

For specific details on ARNP certification, including eligibility criteria, exam content, and renewal processes, candidates should refer to the official website of the respective certifying body for their chosen specialty.

Certifying bodies often provide official study materials, practice exams, and review courses to assist candidates in preparing for the ARNP certification exam. These resources are designed to align with the specific content areas and format of the exam.

Before pursuing ARNP certification, candidates must hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. After obtaining ARNP certification, nurses may pursue additional certifications in sub-specialties or related fields, depending on their area of practice and career goals.

Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners (ARNP) who work in pediatrics can earn one of the following certifications:

• AACN Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist (ACCNS-P)

• PNCB Acute Care Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (CPNP-AC)

• PNCB Pediatric Primary Care Mental Health Specialist (PMHS)

Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners (ARNP) who work with neonates can earn one of the following certifications:

• AACN Neonatal Clinical Nurse Specialist (CCNS-N)

• NCC Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP-BC)

Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners (ARNP) who work in women's health can earn NCC Women's Health Care Nurse Practitioner (WHNP-BC).