CNS Advanced Practice

Kentucky Clinical Nurse Specialist License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Kentucky

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$165

Renewal Period

1 years

Practice Authority

full

Official source: licensing in Kentucky is administered by the Kentucky Board of Nursing. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Kentucky.

Apply on Official Site

Full Practice Authority

Full practice authority: KY recognizes CNS as an APRN (KRS 314.011) and KRS 314.042 requires no collaborative agreement or physician supervision to practice; collaboration applies only to prescribing.

Prescriptive Authority: Collaborative agreement required

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	$165
Total	$165

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 1 years)

$55

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

1 years

Renewal cycle

Pharmacology: 5 hours required

Annual; one-time: 2 hrs suicide prevention, 1.5 hrs pediatric abusive head trauma, 3 hrs domestic violence

Prerequisites

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

RN Requirements View Kentucky RN Requirements

Kentucky CNS License FAQs

How much does a CNS license cost in Kentucky?

Expect about $165 in total initial CNS license costs in Kentucky, including a $165 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Kentucky Board of Nursing.

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

Kentucky CNSs must complete 14 continuing education hours each annual renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $55.

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

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 Kentucky?

The Kentucky Board of Nursing handles CNS license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 502-429-3300.