Nurse Practitioner Licensing Guide for the state of West Virginia
Certified nurse practitioners (CNPs) in West Virginia play a vital role in the state’s healthcare system. Because they diagnose, treat, and manage patient care, they need special training and experience to do their jobs properly. Thus, West Virginia has numerous requirements that people must meet before getting a CNP license. That way, licensed CNPs are ready and able to provide the quality of care their patients need and deserve.
The West Virginia RN Board handles all licensing matters. First, you will need to get a registered nurse (RN) license. You’ll begin by completing a nursing program before taking the NCLEX exam. Then you can submit the application and supporting documents to receive your RN license.
At that point, you’ll be free to pursue a master’s degree in nursing that’s focused on the specialty you choose. For example, if you want to be a mental health nurse practitioner, you’ll choose a program with that focus. However, you’ll need to take a different program to become a family or neonatal nurse practitioner. You will also need to obtain national certification before completing the licensing application. Then you’ll finally be able to get your license and start your career as a CNP.
Since West Virginia is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), you’ll be free to work in other NLC states after getting your license. That includes Kentucky, Virginia, Tennessee, among many others. This will give you more freedom and help you maximize your earnings when working as a CNP.
The licensing process is complicated, and you do not want to let any mistakes slow you down. Thus, you can reach out to the West Virginia RN Board at 304-744-0900 if you have any questions. Additionally, this guide will help you navigate through each step, starting with obtaining your initial RN license.