Step 1. Apply for Licensure with your state BON
Once you have received your official results from ANCC or AANP, you can apply for licensure with your state BON. This will vary state by state, start off by searching for your states board of nursing and look at the website for specific instructions. Typical wait time can be 8-12 weeks. Most applications will be in a PDF form where you can fill it out electronically or you can print it out and mail in. Requirements likely will include: fully filled out application, US passport or birth certificate, application fee (aprox: $200-300), fingerprints or background check, and passport photo
California- Very important to know you should also apply for your furnishing license at this time. A furnishing license is required in California to be able to "furnish" or prescribe drugs.
Step 2. Confirm your RN license is current and active in the state you plan to practice
Its worth noting that you need to make sure your RN license is current in the state you plan to practice as a Nurse Practitioner, or if you are moving out of state you may also need to apply for a new RN license in that state.
Step 3. Apply for a DEA license
You will need your DEA license to prescribe scheduled drugs (Schedules II thru V). The current cost for the DEA license is $888 and lasts 3 years, some employers may cover the cost of this so if you already have a job lined up its worth asking. You will want to select new application and then select the correct DEA application form. Most likely you will need the DEA Form 224a – Retail Pharmacy, Hospital/Clinic, Practitioner, Teaching Institution, or Mid-Level Practitioner. This may take 4-6 weeks to process from date of application.
Apply for your DEA: HERE
Check if your state requires any secondary controlled substance license : HERE
Step 4. Apply for your National Provider Identifier: NPI
The NPI number is a unique identification number that is free to obtain through the US Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). It is used for identifying covered healthcare providers for medicare and medicaid services. You will have to create an account and then fill out the application. processing times are typically 10 days.
You can apply for your NPI number: HERE
5. Apply to Jobs
You can apply to jobs at any time in this process however it may take awhile to get all of your credentials in order.
This article is for NP graduates in the US and may vary from state to state. Let me know if I missed anything in the comments below.
Good luck!
Introducing the E-book: "New NP Guide: Step by step advice and support for the transition from RN to NP"
To support you on your journey, we have created an e-book, This resource is 70 easy to read pages that are designed specifically for new grad NPs and covers essential topics such as:
- AANP vs ANCC
- Exam Reviews/ Study Tips
- Step by step instructions for getting credentialed with links to DEA registration pages, NPI application page, and other resources
- Resume Tips (Includes free editable NP resume template and cover letter)
- Interview Prep
- Job Offer Checklist
- Job Offer Red Flags
- Negotiating tips
- Finding a mentor
- NP Fellowships
- Useful NP resources
- Tracking CE hours
- Tackling Impostor Syndrome
- Self Care
- Malpractice Insurance
This e-book is a valuable companion that offers practical advice and insights to help you thrive in your first NP job. Whether you're just starting your search or have already secured a position, this guide will support you every step of the way.
Transitioning from a new grad NP to your first job is an exciting phase filled with opportunities for growth and development. Embrace the challenges, build your confidence, and approach the job search process strategically. Remember, every experience is a chance to learn and improve. And to further aid you on your journey, don't forget to check out our e-book here: New NP Guide
