CNS
Advanced Practice
Minnesota Clinical Nurse Specialist License Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Minnesota
Processing Time
4-8 weeks
Initial Cost
$105
Renewal Period
2 years
Practice Authority
full
Full Practice Authority
Full practice authority without physician oversight
Prescriptive Authority: CNM and CRNA have full independence; CNP/CNS require 2,080 hrs in collaborative setting first
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 | $105 |
| Total | $105 |
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $85 |
Prerequisites
To become a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Minnesota, you must first hold an active RN license. Minnesota requires a state-specific RN license.
State Board of Nursing
Free Tools
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Track CE Hours
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Readiness Checklist
Prepare your application
Practice Map
Where can you practice?
Other APRN Types in Minnesota
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 1 official sources • Last verified: January 2026