Become Certified

Ready to Lead With Confidence?

 
Healthcare isn’t getting simpler. Every day brings new challenges, new technologies, and new expectations. In this fast-moving world, certification isn’t just a credential — it’s a statement. It tells your patients, your team, and yourself: I know what I’m doing. I’ve earned this.

Becoming CPAN® or CAPA® certified shows that your knowledge meets rigorous national standards and that you’re deeply committed to patient safety, clinical excellence, and ongoing growth. It’s not just about passing an exam — it’s about standing out in a sea of skilled professionals.

Why Get Certified?

When you earn your CPAN or CAPA credential, you’re not just adding letters after your name — you’re joining a nationwide community of passionate, proven leaders in perianesthesia nursing. You’re saying yes to:

  • Delivering better, safer care — because you know the latest and most relevant practices
  • Boosting trust and confidence from employers, peers, and patients
  • Backing your experience with nationally recognized validation
  • Growing your potential for leadership, teaching, or advocacy roles
  • Showing you’re a lifelong learner who never settles
  • Increasing your chances for career advancement — and often, a better paycheck

Where Your Journey Starts

Whether you’re still exploring certification, gearing up to register, or finally going for that long-time goal — you’re in the right place. ABPANC is here to support you with real tools for real nurses. Think helpful study resources, practical timelines, and a network of colleagues who’ve been exactly where you are. View our Roadmap to Certification below!

You’ve got the skills. Let’s help you get the recognition.

Explore the CPAN and CAPA Exams
Check Eligibility and Apply

Join an elite group of board certified perianesthesia nursing colleagues. Become CPAN or CAPA certified to:

  • Improve patient care and safety
  • Enhance employer confidence
  • Validate professional experience
  • Commit to lifelong learning
  • Strengthen credibility
  • Increase earning potential

I’m Ready to Certify/Recertify

Not quite ready to take your CPAN or CAPA exam, but interested in getting updates, study tips, date reminders, and more? Sign up for our monthly newsletter today!
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Your Roadmap to Perianesthesia Certification

Ready to start your journey toward CPAN® or CAPA® certification? Our easy-to-follow roadmap guides you through every step:

  1. Create Your Profile: Start in Learning Builder at cpancapa.org.
  2. Check Your Eligibility: Make sure you’re a current, unrestricted RN with at least 1,200 hours of clinical experience.
  3. Complete Your Application: Don’t forget to include verifiers for your hours worked.
  4. Submit and Pay: Submit your application and pay the exam fee.
  5. Schedule Your Exam: Choose a date at a testing center or opt for live remote proctoring.
  6. Prepare to Succeed: Give yourself ample time to study using ABPANC’s helpful exam preparation materials.
  7. Take the Exam: Testing windows are open March 15–May 15 and September 15–November 15.

At the end of the road? Celebrate your achievement — you’re on your way to excellence in perianesthesia nursing!