CNS Advanced Practice

Massachusetts Clinical Nurse Specialist License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Massachusetts

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$150

Renewal Period

2 years

Practice Authority

full

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

Apply on Official Site

Full Practice Authority

Per 244 CMR 4.06(5), the CNS is a recognized APRN whose scope (advanced direct/indirect nursing care including diagnosis and management of illness) carries no physician collaborative-agreement or supervision requirement (autonomous practice); prescriptive authority under 244 CMR 4.07 is limited to CNM, CNP, Psychiatric CNS, and CRNA, so a general CNS has no prescriptive authority.

Prescriptive Authority: Prescriptive Authority NOT issued by Board of Nursing; register with Massachusetts Drug Control Program

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	$150
Total	$150

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$180

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

2 hrs domestic/sexual violence required

Prerequisites

To become a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Massachusetts, you must first hold an active RN license. Massachusetts requires a state-specific RN license.

RN Requirements View Massachusetts RN Requirements

Massachusetts CNS License FAQs

How much does a CNS license cost in Massachusetts?

Expect about $150 in total initial CNS license costs in Massachusetts, including a $150 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.

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

Massachusetts CNSs must complete 15 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $180.

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

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 Massachusetts?

The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing handles CNS license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 617-973-0800.