Nurse practitioner is one of the best career paths in healthcare. NPs earn $110,000-$180,000+/yr, have significant clinical autonomy in most states, and are experiencing one of the fastest job growth rates of any healthcare profession. The path from registered nurse to licensed nurse practitioner is clear and achievable with the right education plan. Here is a complete guide to becoming a nurse practitioner.
Steps to Become a Nurse Practitioner
- Step 1: Become a Registered Nurse (RN): Earn an ADN (2 years) or BSN (4 years) and pass the NCLEX-RN. Most NP programs prefer or require a BSN.
- Step 2: Gain RN clinical experience: NP programs typically require 1-2 years of RN experience before admission. Some acute care NP programs require critical care or ICU experience.
- Step 3: Earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): NP specialization occurs at the graduate level. Choose your NP specialty during this step.
- Step 4: Pass NP board certification exam: Specialty-specific certification through AANP or ANCC depending on your NP track.
- Step 5: Obtain state NP licensure: Each state has its own NP licensure process. Some states require physician collaboration agreements; others allow full practice authority.
NP Specialties and Salaries
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): Most popular NP specialty. Primary care for all ages. $105,000-$145,000/yr.
- Psychiatric Mental Health NP (PMHNP): Highest demand in most states. $120,000-$160,000/yr.
- Acute Care NP (ACNP): Hospital-based practice. $120,000-$155,000/yr.
- Pediatric NP (PNP): Pediatric primary or acute care. $100,000-$138,000/yr.
- Neonatal NP (NNP): NICU practice. $115,000-$150,000/yr.
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): The highest-paid advanced practice role. $170,000-$250,000+/yr.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a nurse practitioner?
From starting nursing school: ADN or BSN takes 2-4 years, plus 1-2 years of RN experience, plus MSN NP program takes 2-3 years. Total typical time from zero to NP is 6-9 years. Direct entry MSN programs for non-nurses take longer. DNP programs add 1-2 years beyond MSN.
What is the difference between MSN and DNP for NP?
The MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) is the historical entry-level NP degree. The DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) is the terminal clinical practice doctorate recommended by the AACN for NP practice. Both prepare students for NP licensure. The DNP is preferred by many health systems for advanced practice roles and may become a requirement in the future.
What is full practice authority for NPs?
Full practice authority means an NP can practice independently without a physician collaboration or supervision agreement. As of 2025, most states have granted NPs full practice authority or are moving in that direction. States with full practice authority include California, Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Minnesota, and others. States in the Southeast and Midwest are more restrictive.
What NP specialty is in highest demand?
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) are in the most acute shortage in most states. The US faces a severe mental health provider crisis, and PMHNPs are essential to addressing it. FNPs are in high demand everywhere. CRNAs are the highest-paid but have the most demanding educational path.
Can I complete NP school online?
Yes. Many strong NP programs are offered online or in hybrid format. Clinical hours must be completed in person at approved sites, but the didactic portion can be online. UTA, TTUHSC, WGU, Grand Canyon University, and many state university programs offer online MSN NP tracks.
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