How do I renew my certification?
To renew your certification, select your specialty and choose how you want to renew: online or by mail. Use the "Apply Online Here" button for fastest service (credit card required), or mail your application using the typeable PDF.
Why do I need to renew my certification?
As an ANCC board certified professional, you must meet specified requirements in order to maintain and renew your certification within five years. The purpose of certification renewal is to provide evidence that you have continued to expand your prfessional knowledge to demonstrate evidence of continual competence in your certification specialty. It allows you to continue use your ANCC credentials.
ANCC certifications are valid for five years. To continue using your credentials, you must renew the certification. For APRNs, a valid certification is often required for practice.
What are the renewal requirements?
Please download the Renewal Application to see our requirements.
(Important Note: ANCC is transitioning to updated renewal requirements which will be fully in effect beginning January 1, 2014. You will note increased flexibility and additional options in meeting the professional development requirements, and robust examples of acceptable activities within each professional development category. While the existing certification renewal requirements may be used until the new requirements become fully effective on January 1, 2014, the expanded renewal categories listed in the new application may be used immediately, if desired.)
When do I need to renew my certification?
Please submit your renewal application at least 8 weeks before your certification expiration date.
You will receive notices by mail and e-mail starting one year prior to your certification expiration date. Please inform ANCC of any address or name changes so you will receive the proper certification renewal reminders. ANCC is happy to assist you with your renewal process; however, it is the responsibility of all nurses to keep track of their certification date and submit their renewal documents in a timely manner. If you are an advanced practice nurse, be aware that you may become ineligible to practice in your state beyond your certification expiration date.
How do I renew online?
A key benefit of the new online renewal system is that it allows you to track your professional development activities directly in your personal account at any time during your five-year certification cycle, so the information is already entered when your renewal date arrives.
- Review the renewal requirements.
- Please have professional development records, nursing license information, and professional membership information ready before begin the online application process.
- Scroll down to "Choose Your Specialty" and select your certification from the listing. You will be directed to a page with all the information about your specialty area.
PLEASE NOTE: We cannot accept applications or other forms and supporting documents submitted via fax. Each candidate should maintain evidence of complete continuing education and retain a copy of the completed certification renewal application in case his or her file is selected for audit.
Where can I find my renewal application?
Go to the certification page for your specialty area. ANCC recommends that you use the "Renew Online Here" button. Please note, online renewal requires payment by credit card. If are paying by check, you will need to use the typeable PDF application that can be saved on your computer, printed, signed, and then mailed.
What happens after I submit my application?
After submitting your application, you will receive confirmation of receipt, followed by communication by mail, phone, and/or email if there are any questions about your application or supporting documents. Review time varies based on application complexity, with an average review time of 8 weeks. Once approved, you will receive a letter, followed by a new certificate, pin, and certification card in the mail.