Guide to Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) Certification

Guide to Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) Certification

Caring for children is a calling that requires equal parts clinical expertise, adaptability, and heart. As nurses, we know pediatric patients aren’t just “small adults,” they come with unique developmental, emotional, and family-centered needs. One of the most meaningful ways to demonstrate specialized knowledge in this space is through Certified Pediatric Nurse certification, more commonly known as CPN certification.

As someone who has worked across high-acuity environments and now supports clinicians both on and off assignment at Nomad Health, I often hear nurses ask whether the CPN certification is “worth it.” My short answer: if pediatrics is part of your professional identity or where you want your career to grow, it absolutely can be.

What is the Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) certification?

The CPN certification is a nationally recognized credential awarded by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB). It validates a registered nurse’s specialized knowledge and clinical competence in pediatric nursing, from infancy through adolescence.

Earning the CPN tells employers, colleagues, and families that you have met rigorous, evidence-based standards specific to pediatric care. 

Who is eligible for CPN certification?

To sit for the Certified Pediatric Nurse certification, you’ll need to meet a few foundational requirements:

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

• Have at least 1,800 hours of pediatric clinical experience within the past 24 months or

• Complete 3,000 hours of pediatric nursing experience over the past five years

Clinical experience can come from a variety of pediatric settings, including inpatient units, outpatient clinics, emergency departments, specialty practices, and community-based roles.

What is the CPN exam like?

The CPN certification exam is designed to assess real-world pediatric nursing knowledge. It is computer-based and administered at testing centers nationwide.

Here’s what to expect:

• 175 multiple-choice questions (150 scored, 25 unscored pretest questions)

• Three-hour testing window

• Content areas include health promotion, acute and chronic conditions, assessment, family-centered care, and professional practice

The exam emphasizes clinical judgment and application, not memorization, so hands-on experience truly matters.

Study resources to prepare for the CPN certification exam

Preparation looks different for everyone, but I always encourage nurses to use a mix of structured review and self-directed study. Helpful resources include:

• PNCB’s official CPN exam blueprint and practice tests

• Pediatric nursing review books and question banks

• Online CPN review courses or live workshops

• Study groups with fellow pediatric nurses

• Reviewing current pediatric clinical guidelines and standards of care

Consistency is key. Even short, focused study sessions can add up over time.

What are the benefits of earning CPN certification?

From both a clinical and career perspective, there are a number of meaningful benefits from receiving your Certified Pediatric Nurse certification:

• Demonstrates validated pediatric expertise

• Builds confidence in clinical decision-making

• Enhances professional credibility with employers and families

• May open doors to leadership, educator, or specialty roles

• Can support higher pay or differential opportunities at some facilities

• Reinforces a commitment to lifelong learning and pediatric advocacy

For travel nurses in particular, specialty certifications like the CPN can help you stand out in competitive markets.

How much does CPN certification cost?

The initial CPN certification exam fee is approximately $300, regardless of PNCB membership status. While this is an investment, many employers and staffing partners offer reimbursement or continuing education support, so it’s always worth asking.

At Nomad, we can work with you on reimbursement for CPN certification.

What does it cost to renew CPN certification?

CPN certification is renewed annually. Nurses can maintain their credential through continuing education or periodic testing.

• Annual renewal fee: approximately $125

• Continuing education requirement: typically 15 pediatric-focused contact hours per year

Staying certified encourages ongoing growth and ensures your knowledge remains current in a constantly evolving field.

Final thoughts

Pediatric nursing is demanding, rewarding, and deeply impactful. The Certified Pediatric Nurse certification is one way to formally recognize the skill, dedication, and compassion required to care for children at their most vulnerable moments.

Whether you’re early in your pediatric career or looking to reaffirm your expertise, the CPN certification can be a powerful step forward. At Nomad Health, we’re proud to support clinicians who invest in themselves, and in the patients who depend on them.

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• Nurse on the Move? Your Guide to the New 60-Day Rule

• What It Means to Be a Nomad Traveler