CNS Advanced Practice

Maine Clinical Nurse Specialist License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Maine

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$100

Renewal Period

2 years

Practice Authority

full

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

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Full Practice Authority

Maine recognizes the CNS as an APRN with autonomous practice (Board Rule Ch. 8, Sec. 5; no physician supervision/collaboration required), but Ch. 8 Sec. 6-7 grant prescriptive/dispensing authority only to CNPs, CRNAs, and CNMs - the CNS has no prescriptive authority.

Prescriptive Authority: Maine Board of Nursing Chapter 8 grants prescriptive and dispensing authority only to certified nurse practitioners, certified registered nurse anesthetists, and certified nurse-midwives (Sec. 6-7). The certified clinical nurse specialist (Sec. 5) is not granted prescriptive 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	$100
Total	$100

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$100

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

Pharmacology: 15 hours required

Prerequisites

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

RN Requirements View Maine RN Requirements

Maine CNS License FAQs

How much does a CNS license cost in Maine?

Expect about $100 in total initial CNS license costs in Maine, including a $100 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Maine State Board of Nursing.

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

Maine CNSs must complete 50 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $100.

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

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 Maine?

The Maine State Board of Nursing handles CNS license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 207-287-1133.