Become Certified

Earning the Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner (DCNP) credential demonstrates advanced knowledge, clinical expertise, and commitment to excellence in dermatology patient care.

The certification process includes eligibility review, documentation submission, examination scheduling, and successful completion of the DCNP examination.

Applicants must maintain active nurse practitioner licensure and national nurse practitioner certification throughout the certification process.
3,000 Hours Dermatology NP Experience
$400 Examination Fee
4–6 Weeks Typical Processing Timeline
3 Years Certification Cycle

Eligibility Requirements

Education

Applicants must hold a Master’s or Doctoral degree in nursing from an accredited institution.

Licensure

A current nurse practitioner state license or state recognition of nurse practitioner status is required.

National Certification

Applicants must maintain active national certification as a nurse practitioner.

Clinical Experience

A minimum of 3,000 hours of recent dermatology nurse practitioner experience within the last three years is required.

Applications are not considered complete until all required documentation and payment are received.

Required Documentation

  • Current nurse practitioner license
  • Master’s or Doctoral diploma or official transcript
  • Proof of national nurse practitioner certification with expiration dates visible
Hours earned through a formal dermatology NP academic program may count toward the required clinical experience.

Certification Process

Submit Your Application

Complete the online application through the DNPCB website and upload all required documents.

Accepted payment methods include Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, ApplePay, Diners Club, and JCB.

Application Review

Applications are reviewed within approximately 10 business days. You may receive requests for additional documentation if information is incomplete.

Exam Scheduling

Approved applications are forwarded to C-NET and PSI for examination scheduling. Candidates should receive scheduling information within approximately 4–6 weeks.

Take the Examination

Candidates complete the DCNP examination at an approved PSI testing center.

Receive Your Results

Official score reports are provided by DNPCB approximately 2–4 weeks after the administration.

Successful candidates will receive access to their certificate through their DNPCB profile.

Retesting Information

First Examination Attempt

Candidates who do not pass the examination on the first attempt may retest one additional time within one year of their original exam date.

Second Examination Attempt

Candidates who do not pass the examination on the second attempt must wait one full year before reapplying.

Helpful Resources

About the Exam Study Materials Testing FAQ Accommodation Requests Patient Problem Areas

Ready to Begin?

Start your certification journey by reviewing eligibility requirements, gathering documentation, and submitting your application online.

Apply Online View Candidate Handbook


Become Certified