Cert Now, Pay Later Pilot Program
The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board turns 50 this year, and we’re celebrating with purpose, to support providers and ultimately the children, teens, and young adults they serve.
That’s why we’re introducing something special for the Pediatric Primary Care Mental Health Specialist (PMHS) certification.
Introducing PMHS Cert Now, Pay Later
PNCB is piloting the Cert Now, Pay Later program for PMHS testing. This time-limited program is part of a bold initiative to grow and expand access to child mental and behavioral health care. This removes barriers to help eligible providers take the next step in their professional journey, build confidence, and make an even bigger impact, risk-free.
- As you know, families across the country are facing unprecedented challenges accessing timely mental and behavioral health care for their children. Primary care providers, especially PNPs and FNPs in primary care, are often the first—and sometimes the only—point of contact.
- Yet too many who are fully qualified to earn the PMHS credential have hesitated, often due to cost or uncertainty.
- By allowing candidates to aim for certification now and pay only after passing, we’re accelerating the path to specialized care and provider self-confidence.
Why Earn Your PMHS?
PNCB is signaling a call to action because kids can’t wait. They need access to care from confident, knowledgeable providers now, and the PMHS exam validates your added specialty knowledge. Together, we can ensure that every eligible provider is recognized, resourced, and ready to deliver the behavioral and mental health support children so urgently deserve. If you’re a CPNP-PC or FNP or faculty member eligible for the PMHS exam, now is the time to act.
Am I Eligible?
Primary Care PNPs, Family NPs, and Psych Mental Health NPs make up the PMHS base. Visit our PMHS Eligibility webpage to confirm your eligibility. PNCB is also developing a special certificate program for Acute Care PNPs so please keep an eye on PNCB.org for future announcements.
Ready to Apply?
See the steps to apply, then submit your online application at no cost. You will only pay after testing if you pass the exam.
Act Now for a Chance to Receive a Free Practice Test
To help exam candidates feel even more prepared and confident, PNCB will provide a free PMHS practice test for the first 50 who are approved to test during this special promotion. Find all PMHS study resources here, including the essential exam content outline and reference list. Once approved, you will receive a promo code to purchase the practice test. This code is available on a first-come, first-served, basis.
Already a PMHS?
Thank you for being a leader in the developmental, behavioral, and mental health arena! Please share this announcement with your network so they can take advantage of this opportunity.
Questions?
Visit our website for study resources, testing details, and FAQs. PNCB staff are also ready to help answer any questions at exam@pncb.org.
