CNS
Advanced Practice
Limited Recognition
Vermont Clinical Nurse Specialist License Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Vermont
Processing Time
4-8 weeks
Initial Cost
$100
Renewal Period
2 years
Practice Authority
full
Limited CNS Recognition
Vermont only recognizes CNS in psychiatric/mental health specialty
Full Practice Authority
Full practice authority without physician oversight
Prescriptive Authority: Full independent 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 |
Prerequisites
To become a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Vermont, you must first hold an active RN license. Vermont is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you may hold a multistate RN license.
State Board of Nursing
Official Name
Vermont State Board of Nursing
Website
https://sos.vermont.gov/nursing/ Phone
802-828-2396
Free Tools
Check License Reciprocity
See if your license transfers
Calculate Costs
Estimate total licensing costs
Track CE Hours
Stay on top of requirements
Readiness Checklist
Prepare your application
Practice Map
Where can you practice?
Other APRN Types in Vermont
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 1 official sources • Last verified: January 2026