CENP Frequently Asked Questions

A minimum score of 108 is required to pass the CENP examination.

Candidates can retake the exam no sooner than 90 days after their most recent exam date. An application will be available after the 90 days have passed. Candidates may apply for and take the same certification exam up to 3 times in a 12-month period. Review the complete policy.

 A candidate with a visual, sensory or physical disability that prevents taking the examination under standard conditions may request special accommodations and arrangements. For either a computer administration or a special administration, complete the Request for Special Examination Accommodations form at least 45 days prior to the desired testing date.

The current pass rate and number of certified nurses can be found here.

Exam: $325 AONL | $450 nonmember
Register for the exam

AONL offers testing locations in all 50 states. We also offer testing locations internationally abroad. Find the nearest testing location.

Yes. The AONL International Credentials Evaluation Service (administered through CGFNS International, Inc.) allows foreign-educated nurses to verify educational, licensure/registration and employment credentials required for the exam.

Candidates who are eligible for the CENP Examination and wish to be tested outside the U.S. must submit a Request for International Examination Administration.

• Robert Kepshire, MS, MA, RN, CENP (Chair), Evans, Ga.
• Marianne Kraemer, BSN, MPA, EdM, RN CENP (Vice Chair), Stratford, N.J.
• Candida Constantine-Castillo, MSN, RN, CENP, La Feria, Texas
• Lisa Hernandez, DNP, RN, CENP, Mission, Texas
• Imana Minard, MSN, RN, CENP, Belleville, Mich.
• Janie Schumaker, MBA, RN, CEN, CENP, CPHQ, FABC, OakBrook, Ill.

Testing centers that have resumed operations following COVID-19 closures. This list is updated daily and serves as the best reference for candidates and associates.

Since the outbreak began, the testing centers have adhered to the latest safety procedures based on various international, state, and local Orders and guidelines and CDC and WHO recommendations.Learn more about the testing centers procedures and safety guidelines.

A candidate’s application is valid for 90 days after completing registration and payment, during which time the candidate must schedule an appointment to test on computer and take the examination. A candidate who fails to schedule an appointment and take the exam within the 90-day period forfeits the application and all fees paid to take the examination.

Attaining certification is an indication of mastery of a well-defined body of knowledge at a point in time. Periodic recertification is required to maintain certified status. Initial certification or recertification of certification is valid for three (3) years. A certificant may renew the CENP credential through one of two routes:

1. Successful re-examination
2. Documentation of 45 contact hours of continuing professional education over the 3 - year period and payment of the recertification fee.

Download recertification application

Renewal applications may be submitted up to one year prior to the certification expiration date