New Jersey Clinical Nurse Specialist License Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in New Jersey
CNS is licensed as an Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) in NJ; a joint protocol with a collaborating physician is required (N.J.A.C. 13:37-7.9). Per the 2026 APN law (eff. 3/30/2026), only qualified APNs with 5,000+ hours in primary/behavioral health may practice without a joint protocol; newer APNs remain collaborative.
Prescriptive Authority: Joint Protocol with collaborating physician 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 | $100 |
| Total | $180 |
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $160 |
Continuing Education Requirements
1 hr opioid required
Prerequisites
To become a Clinical Nurse Specialist in New Jersey, you must first hold an active RN license. New Jersey is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you may hold a multistate RN license.
State Board of Nursing
Free Tools
Other APRN Types in New Jersey
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 5 official sources • Last verified: June 2026