CPN Exam Administration
Don't forfeit your fees or miss out on a use of your No Pass, No Pay code! It's your responsibility to understand all exam policies, procedures, and requirements. Read your PNCB Exam Candidate Handbook now.
The on-site exam is delivered by computer at 300+ Prometric Testing Centers throughout the US by appointment only. The live remote proctored exam (LRP) is offered at PSI.
Exam Integrity
PNCB and our testing partners are responsible for the validity and integrity of the scores they report. On rare occasions, occurrences such as computer malfunction or candidate misconduct may cause a score to be suspect. PNCB and our testing partners reserve the right to void or withhold examination results if, upon investigation, a violation of their regulations is discovered.
Frequently Asked Questions
The CPN exam contains 175 multiple-choice items. Total testing time is 3 hours.
No. You will get a tutorial on how to select answers and move between questions. The tutorial doesn't reduce testing time.
- For on-site testing, consider an optional Prometric test drive
- For live remote proctored tests, consider PSI's Online Proctoring Testing Experience video
What is a test-center check-in like?
You will go through a secure check-in procedure. Arrive 30 minutes early with proper IDs. At this time, PNCB doesn't require biometric check-in.
What is an online-proctored check-in like?
Questions are multiple-choice with one correct answer. You will see all questions unless the time allotted for your exam ends. Computer-adaptive testing (e.g., NCLEX) is not used.
Yes! Our practice tests can help you get familiar with question presentation and offer in-depth rationale for right answers plus a score report.
PNCB works with our test vendors to arrange accommodations for disability-related needs covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Note this on your online application and upload the form below. Computer anxiety, test anxiety, or English as a second language are not applicable.
See our Preparing to Take your Pediatric Nursing Certification Board Exam web page.
You will receive official notification emailed from PNCB within 2-3 weeks in most cases.
Appeals
An appeals process is available to those who wish to contest an adverse decision or proposed action affecting their application for certification, exam results, or recertification. The Executive Committee of PNCB's Board of Directors hears all candidate appeals, and their proposed remedies and decisions are final.
All PNCB policies and requirements are subject to change without notice.