CNS Advanced Practice

Pennsylvania Clinical Nurse Specialist License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Pennsylvania

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$105

Renewal Period

2 years

Practice Authority

full

Official source: licensing in Pennsylvania is administered by the Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania.

Apply on Official Site

Full Practice Authority

Pennsylvania recognizes the Clinical Nurse Specialist as an APRN role (49 Pa. Code Subchapter H; Professional Nursing Law § 8.6 / 63 P.S. § 218.6). A CNS may engage in the practice of nursing including nursing diagnosis with NO physician collaborative agreement or supervision required, so CNS practice is autonomous; however § 218.6 prohibits the CNS from prescribing or performing medical diagnosis, so there is no prescriptive authority.

Prescriptive Authority: Professional Nursing Law § 8.6 (63 P.S. § 218.6) prohibits a CNS from prescribing medical therapeutic or corrective measures; CNS has no prescriptive authority in Pennsylvania.

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	$115
Total	$105

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$81

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

Pharmacology: 16 hours required

Prerequisites

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

RN Requirements View Pennsylvania RN Requirements

Pennsylvania CNS License FAQs

How much does a CNS license cost in Pennsylvania?

Expect about $105 in total initial CNS license costs in Pennsylvania, including a $115 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.

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

Pennsylvania CNSs must complete 30 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $56.

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

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 Pennsylvania?

The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing handles CNS license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 717-783-7142.