CNS
Advanced Practice
Iowa Clinical Nurse Specialist License Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Iowa
Processing Time
4-8 weeks
Initial Cost
$81
Renewal Period
3 years
Practice Authority
full
Full Practice Authority
Full practice authority without physician oversight
Prescriptive Authority: Full independent authority; Schedule II-V
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 | $81 |
| Total | $81 |
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 3 years) | $81 |
Prerequisites
To become a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Iowa, you must first hold an active RN license. Iowa 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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Calculate Costs
Estimate total licensing costs
Track CE Hours
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Readiness Checklist
Prepare your application
Practice Map
Where can you practice?
Other APRN Types in Iowa
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 1 official sources • Last verified: January 2026