CRNA Advanced Practice

Kentucky CRNA License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist in Kentucky

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$165

Renewal Period

1 years

Practice Authority

full

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

Apply on Official Site

Full Practice Authority

CRNA: state has opted out of the CMS Medicare physician-supervision requirement (April 2012); CRNAs may administer anesthesia without physician supervision under Medicare. State scope of practice may add requirements.

Prescriptive Authority: Independent for anesthesia care: KRS 314.042 states a CRNA is NOT required to enter a collaborative agreement to deliver anesthesia care (select/order anesthesia-related drugs). A CAPA-NS/CAPA-CS collaborative agreement is required only to prescribe legend/controlled drugs for pain management outside anesthesia care (per KBN legal opinion, KRS 314.042 / 314.011(8)(b)).

1 Education Requirements

Degree Required

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Note: As of January 1, 2025, entry-level nurse anesthetist programs must be doctoral (DNP or DNAP). CRNAs educated prior to this date with an MSN remain eligible.

Program Requirements

Complete accredited Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist program
Hold active RN license in the state
Clinical hours as specified by program

2 National Certification

Certification Body

NBCRNA

Required

Yes

National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists

3 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$165
Total	$165

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 1 years)

$55

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

1 years

Renewal cycle

Pharmacology: 5 hours required

Annual; one-time: 2 hrs suicide prevention, 1.5 hrs pediatric abusive head trauma, 3 hrs domestic violence

Prerequisites

To become a CRNA in Kentucky, you must first hold an active RN license and typically have ICU experience. Kentucky is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you may hold a multistate RN license.

RN Requirements View Kentucky RN Requirements

Kentucky CRNA License FAQs

How much does a CRNA license cost in Kentucky?

Expect about $165 in total initial CRNA license costs in Kentucky, including a $165 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Kentucky Board of Nursing.

How many CE hours do CRNAs need to renew in Kentucky?

Kentucky CRNAs must complete 14 continuing education hours each annual renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $55.

How long does it take to get a CRNA license in Kentucky?

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 8 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues CRNA licenses in Kentucky?

The Kentucky Board of Nursing handles CRNA license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 502-429-3300.