The Acute Care CPNP® Exam

The Acute Care CPNP® role is designed to meet the specialized physiological and psychological needs of children with complex acute and chronic health conditions. Use the links at left to learn more about the role, our role delineation research, eligibility, and the exam content outline. Role delineation research was conducted in 2010 to identify and update essential competencies and tasks linked to Acute Care PNP practice:

   • Comparison of 2004 and 2009 role delineation research (PPT)
   • Proposed changes to the content outline - effective 9/10 (PDF)

This exam is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), and meets the National Council of State Boards of Nursing's APRN criteria for certification programs. Learn more>>

Explore links at left for eligibility requirements, exam administration, and study resources, then select from the options below:

To Apply for the Exam (Initial Application)

The PNCB requires a completed application with payment as the first step in applying to take the exam. We will be unable to match your supporting documentation without receipt of application and payment.

Application for Computer-Based Exam
To print and complete a paper application, visit our Forms page.

To Re-Apply for the Exam

Use our online Re-application for the Exam if you paid for the exam within the past 24 months and have taken the exam unsuccessfully within the past 12 months. If you have exceeded this timeframe, you will need to apply for an initial exam above.

To Apply for an Extension

If you are unable to test during your assigned 90-day testing window, use our Application for 90-Day Extension and follow the procedures below.

• Candidates must complete the application for extension 5 business days before termination of the 90-day testing period.
• The exam extension fee is not refundable under any circumstances.
• Extension of a 90-day testing period is a one-time only option.
• The new testing period begins once your application for an extension is processed and does not grant you 180 days to take the exam.
• The extension can be made ONLY if your testing period HAS NOT expired.

Step 1: If you have already scheduled a testing date and time, it is your responsibility to cancel your appointment with Prometric per their cancellation schedule (2 full business days before scheduled exam).

Step 2: On receipt of request and fee, the PNCB will notify you of your newly assigned 90-day testing period. You may then schedule your new testing appointment with Prometric.