CNS
Advanced Practice
Indiana Clinical Nurse Specialist License Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Indiana
Processing Time
4-8 weeks
Initial Cost
$50
Renewal Period
2 years
Practice Authority
reduced
Reduced Practice
Reduced practice authority with some limitations
Prescriptive Authority: Collaborative Practice Agreement required; CSR $60 for controlled substances
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 | $50 |
| Total | $50 |
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $10 |
Continuing Education Requirements
30
Contact hours required
2 years
Renewal cycle
Pharmacology: 8 hours required
Prerequisites
To become a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Indiana, you must first hold an active RN license. Indiana is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you may hold a multistate RN license.
State Board of Nursing
Free Tools
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Readiness Checklist
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Practice Map
Where can you practice?
Other APRN Types in Indiana
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 1 official sources • Last verified: January 2026