The Certified Pediatric Nurse Exam

This exam is for the nurse who has extensive experience in pediatric practice and who demonstrates knowledge and abilities related to pediatric nursing beyond basic RN licensure. Nurses passing this exam are called Certified Pediatric Nurses and earn the CPN® credential, which they are entitled to use as long as they actively maintain their certification.

The CPN® Exam is unique because role delineation updates reflect historic participation from Canadian pediatric nurses. To learn more about the CPN® role, please read our Role Delineation Study.

We invite you to explore the links at the left to learn more about the Exam, its eligibility requirements and the benefits of certification. When you're ready to apply, see our exam tips, then select from the options below.

All PNCB exams are approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Veterans can now be reimbursed for the cost of their certification examination. For more information, call 1-888-GI Bill (442-4551) or visit the VA Web site at www.gibill.va.gov.

To Apply for the Exam:

Online Application for Computer-Based Exam

Online Application for On-Site Hospital Written Exam
The above option is for pre-arranged pencil-paper exams at hospitals and conferences only.

To print out and complete a paper application for any of the above, visit our Forms page.

To Apply for Re-Examination:

Use our Online Re-application for Examination 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 Online Application for 90-day Extension and follow the procedures below:

When a CPN® candidate is unable to test during their assigned 90-day testing window, they may pursue this option. The non-refundable fee for an extension is $130.

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. Click here for more information.

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 AMP 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 AMP.