CNS Advanced Practice

Virginia Clinical Nurse Specialist License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Virginia

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$190

Renewal Period

2 years

Practice Authority

full

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

Apply on Official Site

Full Practice Authority

CNS may practice its certified nursing specialty without a written/electronic physician practice agreement (autonomous practice); a collaborative practice agreement with a physician is required only to prescribe controlled substances or devices (Va. Code 54.1-2957(J)).

Prescriptive Authority: NPs: Practice agreement until 3 yrs/5,400 hrs; CRNAs: Schedule II-VI for periprocedural only; CNMs: Practice agreement until 1,000 hrs

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	$125
Total	$190

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$80

Prerequisites

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

RN Requirements View Virginia RN Requirements

Virginia CNS License FAQs

How much does a CNS license cost in Virginia?

Expect about $190 in total initial CNS license costs in Virginia, including a $125 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Virginia Board of Nursing.

Does Virginia require continuing education for CNS renewal?

No. Virginia does not require continuing education hours to renew a CNS license. The renewal fee is $80.

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

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 Virginia?

The Virginia Board of Nursing handles CNS license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 804-367-4515.