CNS
Advanced Practice
Connecticut Clinical Nurse Specialist License Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Connecticut
Processing Time
4-8 weeks
Initial Cost
$200
Renewal Period
2 years
Practice Authority
full
Full Practice Authority
Full practice authority without physician oversight
Prescriptive Authority: Full independent authority
1 Education Requirements
Degree Required
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Program Requirements
- Complete accredited Clinical Nurse Specialist program
- Hold active RN license in the state
- Clinical hours as specified by program
2 National Certification
Certification Body
ANCC or AACN
Required
Yes
American Nurses Credentialing Center or American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
3 Fees
Initial Licensure
| Application Fee | $200 |
| Total | $200 |
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $0 |
Continuing Education Requirements
50
Contact hours required
2 years
Renewal cycle
Pharmacology: 5 hours required
Prerequisites
To become a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Connecticut, you must first hold an active RN license. Connecticut requires a state-specific RN license.
State Board of Nursing
Official Name
Connecticut DPH Board of Examiners for Nursing
Phone
860-509-7603
Free Tools
Check License Reciprocity
See if your license transfers
Calculate Costs
Estimate total licensing costs
Track CE Hours
Stay on top of requirements
Readiness Checklist
Prepare your application
Practice Map
Where can you practice?
Other APRN Types in Connecticut
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 1 official sources • Last verified: January 2026