Computer-Based Exams are now at PSI Testing Centers as of 12/10/24. Questions? Email exam@pncb.org.

Timeline for Certification

CPNs at Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters

Timeline for CPN Certification

From the application process to recertification of your credential, use this chart to guide your planning.

How many weeks of study do you need? Is your employer offering a review course that you plan to take? Are you ready to test within 90 days of applying? Consider these questions and use these resources as you explore the process below.

Activity Time

Apply online

15 minutes

If you indicate an ADA need on your application, upload your Special Accommodations Form to your exam application

PNCB reviews your application for eligibility approval

As received

PNCB sends you your scheduling notification

Within 2 weeks after eligibility approval, watch for your eligibility email notification.

This means you've been assigned a 90-day testing window and are ready to schedule with Prometric or PSI

Schedule your exam

Within 2 weeks of being notified

Testing seats fill quickly

Schedule your exam appointment now, even if you want to test later in your 90-day window

Take your exam

Within your 90-day window

Honor your test appointment so you don't forfeit fees or miss out on one of your two uses of a No Pass, No Pay code

Arrive 15 minutes early with proper IDs

You receive an unofficial pass/fail status notification prior to leaving the test center or when completing your LRP exam

PNCB emails you official results

2-3 weeks

Official exam results arrive by email

Passing candidates receive a wall certificate, get information on staying certified, and can order a lapel pin

 

Plan ahead for recertification

Within 6 months of passing and beyond

Learn about recertification so you can maintain your credential

You will need 15 contact hours or equivalents accepted by PNCB

 

Faces of Certification

PNCB-certified nursing professionals work in a variety of roles and settings throughout the US and beyond. Share your photo today!

Jill Davis, CPNP-PC, PMHS Harmony Health Clinic Fairfax, VA
Margot Bernardino, CPN Driscoll Children's Hospital Corpus Christi, TX
Tajmara Eaton, CPNP-AC, CPNP-PC Grand Valley Pediatrics Grand Junction, CO
View more Faces of Certification