Recertification
Maintain your DCNP credential with confidence. Recertification helps ensure that Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioners remain current in specialty knowledge, licensure, and professional practice.
Continuing your certification reinforces your commitment to high-quality dermatology care, clinical excellence, and ongoing professional development.
The DCNP credential is valid for three years, and all certifications expire on December 31 of the renewal year.
3 Years Credential Cycle
60 Hours CE Option
$300 Standard Fee
Oct 31 Standard Deadline
How Recertification Works
To maintain an active DCNP credential, certificants must:
- Continue practicing dermatology as a nurse practitioner
- Maintain active NP licensure and national certification
- Submit a recertification application before expiration
- Complete 60 hours of continuing education or pass the exam again
Recertification is a continuation of specialty practice and ongoing competency, not a repeat of initial certification requirements.
Before You Begin
✔ Your national NP certification is active
✔ You hold an unrestricted NP and RN license
✔ You currently practice dermatology for at least 50% of your practice
✔ You meet recertification eligibility criteria
Need help? Contact recertification@dnpcb.org.
Important Dates
August 1: Recertification application opens through your DCNP online profile.
October 31: Standard deadline with a $300 fee.
November 1 to December 1: Late submission window with a $400 fee.
By December 31: Final certificate issued and new 3-year cycle begins.
Applications cannot be submitted after December 1.
Two Ways to Recertify
Helpful Resources
Review these pages before starting the recertification process:
Need to Start with Initial Certification?
If you are not yet certified and need to begin the DCNP certification process, use the application portal to get started.
Become Certified