Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Certification Career Guide

Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Certification Career Guide

Whether you're a seasoned ED nurse or exploring emergency care as a new specialty, CEN certification can validate your expertise, elevate your professional credibility. Recognized nationally by hospitals and trauma centers, the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) credential demonstrates your readiness to handle the fast-paced, high-acuity world of emergency nursing. This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from eligibility and exam content to renewal, costs, and career advantages.

What is CEN certification?

CEN certification, or Certified Emergency Nurse certification, is a nationally recognized credential awarded by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN). It validates a nurse's expertise in emergency care and is considered the gold standard for ED nurses.

CEN is often preferred for nurses working in Level I trauma centers, Magnet hospitals, and critical care settings. It can also help demonstrate travel nurses' advanced clinical competency and increase your chances for an offer.

Eligibility requirements

To be eligible for the CEN exam, you must:

• Hold a current, unrestricted RN license in the U.S. or Canada

• 2 years’ experience in your specialty area; however, it is not required.

There is no minimum number of practice hours required, [H3] Exam Details & Content Outline

The CEN exam is computer-based and administered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers.

Quick facts:

• Format: 150 multiple-choice questions (135 scored)

• Time limit: 3 hours

• Delivery: In-person or remote online proctoring (if available)

• Passing score: Determined by exam version (scaled scoring)

Exam content domains:

Cost of CEN certification

Here are the current fees (as of 2025):

• Initial exam: $370 (BCEN members), $390 (non-members)

• Retest: $340

• Renewal via exam: $350

• Renewal via CE (80 contact hours): $250

Some employers offer reimbursement or continuing education stipends that cover certification costs. Nomad does offer reimbursement for some certifications, so please ask your Nomad Navigator for more information.

CEN renewal & recertification

CEN certification is valid for four years.

You can renew in two ways:

1. By Continuing Education (CE):

   • 100 total contact hours over 4 years

   • 75 clinical (emergency-focused), 25 professional development

2. By Re-examination:

   • Retake and pass the CEN exam before expiration

BCEN requires you to log CE hours in your BCEN account and submit renewal fees before your expiration date.

Preparing for the CEN exam

Success on the CEN exam requires strong emergency nursing knowledge and a test-taking strategy. Common prep resources include:

• BCEN Candidate Handbook (official policies and exam blueprint)

• ENA Review Courses (in-person and online)

• CEN Prep Books (e.g., Emergency Nursing Core Curriculum) Reference list

• Practice Exam

• Practice Questions/Flashcards (UWorld, Mometrix, etc.)

• Study Plan Timeline: Begin 6–8 weeks before test day

Career impact of CEN certification

CEN certification can:

• Boost your credibility in trauma and high-acuity settings

• Increase eligibility for Level I/II trauma center positions

• Enhance travel nurse applications for premium contracts

• Help meet Magnet hospital and trauma designation requirements

Note: While salary increases vary, CEN-certified nurses often see higher compensation due to added qualifications.

CEN vs other certifications (CCRN, TCRN, CPEN)

Consider your setting and patient population when choosing between certifications.

Is CEN certification worth it?

If you work in an emergency setting or plan to transition into one, CEN certification is a smart career move. It’s respected by employers, and can help you stand out for top assignments

For travel nurses, CEN can be especially valuable. Facilities often seek CEN-certified travelers for faster onboarding and higher acuity roles.