CARN - Certified Addictions Registered Nurse

The Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (CARN) exam is offered by the Addictions Nursing Certification Board (ANCB), accredited by the Accreditation Board for Specialty Nursing Certification (ABSNC). The ANCB contracts the Center for Nursing Education and Testing (C-NET) to handle applications and administration.

Addiction nurses support patients receiving treatment for drug and alcohol addiction. They are knowledgeable in the physical and psychological implications of addiction. They collaborate with physicians on treatment plans, educate patients and families, monitor pain levels and medication dosages, and support patients during detoxing and rehabilitation.

Fees

The examination fee is $300.

The exam fee for ASAN or IntNSA (USA) members: $250

Applying for the CARN Examination

The Center for Nursing Education and Testing, Inc. (C-NET) reviews and processes applications. Testing is available year-round with no deadlines for application submission. Applications take approximately 4 weeks to process. Once eligibility is determined, the candidate will receive an examination permit via email that will include details on scheduling the exam. Testing must occur within 90 days of receiving the examination permit.

Exam Format

Exams are computer-based and administered through testing centers. Questions are multiple-choice, with 3 hours allowed for testing.

Test Results

Candidates must answer 75% of the questions correctly to receive a passing score. Scores are available immediately after the exam is completed.

Eligibility for the Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Exam

• Hold a current, active, and unrestricted license as an RN

• Obtain 30 hours of continuing education credits in addictions nursing within 3 years of application submission

• Document 2,000 hours of experience related to addictions as an RN within 3 years of application verified by a direct supervisor

Renewal occurs every four years. Nurses will complete the Recertification Application for CARN and mail, fax, or email it along with payment to C-NET. Nurses must meet the following requirements for renewal:

• Verification of 2,000 hours (one year) of nursing experience in addictions

• 60 continuing education hours, 51% must be directly in Addictions while the rest may be related

Resources for exam candidates:

• Handbook with sample questions

• Exam Blueprint

• List of References

The ANCB also offers the Certified Addiction Registered Nurse – Advance Practice (CARN-AP).