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Board of Nursing

License Summary for Clinical Nurse Specailist-PMH (CNS)

The following outlines Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) licensing information. For specific information on filing an application, you will need to obtain the license application which includes a detailed listing of the requirements.

A. Application Fee:
$75.00 for APRN Licensure
B. Education Requirements:

Must be licensed as an RN in Montana.
Applicants for recognition as a CNS shall possess the following educational and certification qualifications.

1. Successful completion of a post basic professional nursing education program in the CNS area of specialty with the minimum length of one academic year consisting of at least 250 hours of didactic instruction and 400 hours under a preceptor, and individual certification from a board approved certifying body for those recognized prior to July 1, 1995.

2. For original recognition after June 30, 1995, a masters degree from an accredited nursing education program, as defined in (a) which prepares the nurse for the APRN recognition applied for; an individual certification from a board approved certifying body. APRNs who have completed an accredited advanced practice registered nurse program and obtained national certification prior to June 30, 1995 may be recognized in Montana.

C. Experience Requirements:
None
D. Examination Information:
National certifying exam in specialty area
E. Renewal Period:
Biennial expiration date 12/31 (even numbered years)
F. Renewal Fee:
$50.00, Renewals received after 12/31 of current year $100.00
$50.00 for RN renewal also at this time.
G. Continuing Education Requirements:
40 CEUs for each renewal period
H. Other Special License Requirements:
Must maintain a current Montana RN license.
I. National Certifying Bodies Recognized: