Getting licensed as a CRNA in California
- RN license. Hold an active RN license that covers California, which means a California RN license. Moving from another state? See licensure by endorsement.
- NBCRNA certification. Pass the National Certification Examination after graduating from an accredited program, then keep it current.
- APRN license. Apply to the California Board of Registered Nursing for advanced practice recognition as a CRNA (the exact title and process vary by state). The Nurse Licensure Compact does not cover APRN authority.
- Prescriptive and controlled substance authority where your role needs it, including a DEA registration. See APRN credentialing.
Processing times and requirements change, so check the board's website before you apply. Some states offer a temporary permit while your application is processed.
More for California
Board details from NCSBN and the board's website; compact status from nursecompact.com; opt-out from AANA. Checked October 2026. Not legal advice.