CNS Advanced Practice

Florida Clinical Nurse Specialist License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Florida

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$110

Renewal Period

2 years

Practice Authority

reduced

Official source: licensing in Florida is administered by the Florida Board of Nursing. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying.

Apply on Official Site

Reduced Practice

Reduced/collaborative practice: per Fla. Stat. 464.012(3) & (4)(d), a CNS performs all functions within the framework of an established physician supervisory protocol; autonomous practice under s. 464.0123 is limited to primary-care NPs and nurse midwives, so it is unavailable to a CNS. Prescriptive authority (including controlled substances for master/doctoral-prepared CNS) is permitted only within that established protocol framework per 464.012(3)(a).

Prescriptive Authority: Collaborative prescriptive authority within the established physician protocol per Fla. Stat. 464.012(3)(a); a CNS with a master/doctoral degree in a clinical nursing specialty may prescribe controlled substances subject to the s. 464.012(6) formulary. CNS is not eligible for autonomous practice under s. 464.0123 (limited to primary-care NPs and nurse midwives).

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	$110
Total	$110

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$60

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

Pharmacology: 3 hours required

Prerequisites

To become a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Florida, you must first hold an active RN license. Florida is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you may hold a multistate RN license.

RN Requirements View Florida RN Requirements

Florida CNS License FAQs

How much does a CNS license cost in Florida?

Expect about $110 in total initial CNS license costs in Florida, including a $110 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Florida Board of Nursing.

How many CE hours do CNSs need to renew in Florida?

Florida CNSs must complete 24 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $60.

How long does it take to get a CNS license in Florida?

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 8 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues CNS licenses in Florida?

The Florida Board of Nursing handles CNS license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 850-488-0595.