CRNA Advanced Practice

Massachusetts CRNA License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist in Massachusetts

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$150

Renewal Period

2 years

Practice Authority

full

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

Apply on Official Site

Full Practice Authority

CRNA: state has opted out of the CMS Medicare physician-supervision requirement (May 2024); CRNAs may administer anesthesia without physician supervision under Medicare. State scope of practice may add requirements.

Prescriptive Authority: M.G.L. c. 112 sec. 80H: CRNA prescribes written prescriptions/medication orders under guidelines mutually developed with a supervising physician or independent-authority CRNA; gains independent prescriptive authority only after 2+ years supervised practice. Anesthesia administration itself requires no prescriptive authority.

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	$150
Total	$150

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$180

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

2 hrs domestic/sexual violence required

Prerequisites

To become a CRNA in Massachusetts, you must first hold an active RN license and typically have ICU experience. Massachusetts requires a state-specific RN license.

RN Requirements View Massachusetts RN Requirements

Massachusetts CRNA License FAQs

How much does a CRNA license cost in Massachusetts?

Expect about $150 in total initial CRNA license costs in Massachusetts, including a $150 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.

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

Massachusetts CRNAs must complete 15 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $180.

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

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 Massachusetts?

The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing handles CRNA license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 617-973-0800.