ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE License in Tennessee
Quick Answer
Tennessee requires a master's degree or higher, national specialty certification, and an active RN license for APRN licensure. A supervisory relationship with a physician is required. Contact the Tennessee Department of Health for current fees.
- Exam
- ANCC or AANP certification exam
- Timeline
- 3-6 months after MSN/DNP graduation
- Renewal
- Every Biennial
Requirements
ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE registration in Tennessee
ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE Salary in Tennessee
Entry Level
$61,530
Median
$108,420
Experienced
$133,120
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE in Tennessee.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — ANCC or AANP certification exam
- 3
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 4
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 3-6 months after MSN/DNP graduation.
ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE Licensing in Tennessee: What to Know
Tennessee licenses APRNs who must hold a master's degree or higher in one of four advanced practice nursing roles. Current national specialty certification, an active RN license, and competency requirements are needed for biennial renewal. Tennessee is a restricted practice state where NPs must practice under a supervisory relationship with a physician. The Tennessee Department of Health oversees APRN licensing. Fee information is not provided in the COS data.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE license in Tennessee?
- The process typically takes 3-6 months after MSN/DNP graduation, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE license in Tennessee?
- You need to pass the ANCC or AANP certification exam. Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.