APRN authorization timeline

[Mr. Southern NP, MSN, APRN, NP]

To those who have recently been through the process, or can remember the details pretty well, what is the real-life timeline of events from completing your AANP FNP certification exam successfully to being licensed as an APRN? I'm trying to do everything I can to stay in front of any tasks coming up.

My state requires a paper application for the APRN license. I am required to submit an official transcript along with the notarized application. I have received my printable wallet card with my certification number and have submitted my request for the AANP to send my board of nursing my certification information. I have official transcripts on the way to me in the mail and, just in case, had one sent directly to the board of nursing as well. I will try to get the application turned in ASAP. I think I read somewhere that it can work in my favor to provide the application in person as opposed to mailing it in?

For the purposes of practicing in my state, the board has to authorize me as an APRN before I can start seeing patients. So I think that is the most accurate description of what I am trying to find out: how long is it from submission of materials to the board to receiving authorization to practice. I'm in the southeast, if that makes any difference in the process.

[verene, MSN]

I think this will vary greatly from place to place. As a new PMHNP I went through this process recently and it was surprisingly quick! I graduated in June, boards in July, Job offer in August and was working by the last week of September. I was allowed to submit most of my materials (aside from transcript and ANCC certification) before I even graduated so that background check processing could start early and I could get finger-printed and what-not for BON in advance of taking my exam.

I think I had my license less than a week after boards and NPI, DEA, and clozapine REMS done within 4-6 weeks of passing boards.

[Mr. Southern NP, MSN, APRN, NP]

@verene, thanks for the information. So far, I've tested, received certification, and submitted my application for my APRN license. I spoke with someone directly at the Board and they stated once the application has been submitted, it usually takes 15 days to complete the process. I still have to go get fingerprinted, but have submitted everything else. So I could potentially be completed with the licensure process by the end of February. Thanks again.