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School Nurses

Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements

Certification or Licensing

Many states have certification requirements for school nurses, and some have certification programs but they are not required in all circumstances. National certification is available through the National Board for Certification of School Nurses.

Both licensed practical nurses and registered nurses must pass an examination after they have completed a state-approved nursing program. This is required by all states and the District of Columbia.

In addition, some state education agencies set requirements such as nursing experience and competency in specified areas of health and education. Local or regional boards of education may also have certain qualifications that they require of their school nurses.

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