Recertification

Maintain Your DCNP Credential
Recertification ensures that Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioners continue to meet professional practice standards and remain current in specialty knowledge, licensure, and dermatology practice. The DCNP credential is valid for three years, with all certifications expiring on December 31.
Maintaining your certification reinforces your dedication to high-quality dermatology care, supports clinical excellence, and demonstrates ongoing commitment to professional development.

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 (ANCC and/or AANP)
  • Submit a recertification application before expiration
  • Complete 60 hours of continuing education or pass the exam again
Recertification ensures ongoing competency—it is not a repeat of initial certification requirements but a continuation of specialty practice.

Important Dates
Timeline Dates Details
Recertification Application Opens August 1 Available through your DCNP online profile
Standard Deadline October 31 $300 fee
Late Submission Window Nov 1 to Dec 1 $400 fee
Final Certificate Issued By December 31 New 3-year cycle begins

Applications cannot be submitted after December 1.

Two Ways to Recertify

Option Description
Continuing Education (CE) Submit 60 hours of approved dermatology-related continuing education
Re-Examination Sit for—and successfully pass—the DCNP exam prior to expiration

Before You Begin

Please ensure:

✔ Your national NP certification is active
✔ You hold an unrestricted NP and RN license
✔ You currently practice dermatology (≥50% of your practice)
✔ You meet recertification eligibility criteria

Need help? Contact recertification@dnpcb.org


Become Certified