SNSC - School Nurse Services Credential (California CTC)

The School Nurse Services Credential (SNSC) issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) is required to legally practice as a school nurse in California. Registered nurses (RNs) must obtain this professional credential to provide health services in California K-12 public schools. The SNSC certifies that the holder has met state standards to deliver school health services, including health assessments, interventions and health education.

Eligibility

RNs can obtain a preliminary credential, good for 5 years by providing the following:

• Baccalaureate or higher degree (official transcripts required) from a regionally accredited college or university

• Valid California Registered Nurse License (photocopy)

The preliminary credential isn’t renewable. At the end of the 5 years, RNs must obtain a Clear Credential, by providing the following:

• Apply via a California college or university with a Commission-approved school nurse program

• Possess a Preliminary School Nurse Services Credential

• Possess a valid California Registered Nurse License

• Complete 2 years of school nurse experience (not required if credential was issued on or before July 1, 1981)

• Complete a CTC-approved school nurse program and obtain a formal recommendation from the college or university

Cost: $100 application fee, $50 Certificate of Clearance fee, plus the cost of fingerprinting

Application Process

• Completed application form

• Live Scan receipt (in-state applicants) o, two fingerprint cards (out-of-state residents)

• Application fee and fingerprint processing fees if applicable

Clear Credential must be renewed every 5 years. Applicants must:

• Possess a valid California RN license

• Complete application

• Pay application processing fee

Renewal Fees

$100 renewal fee

The National Board for Certification of School Nurses, Inc. (NBCSN) offers the National Certified School Nurse (NCSN) certification, but California requires the SNSC.