Receiving Initial Certification from the NBCRNA
Here at the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists, our mission is to promote patient safety through credentialing programs that support lifelong learning. Our experienced staff works closely with our Board of Directors, who are experts in the fields of anesthesia, surgery, training/education, and testing, to ensure that nurse anesthetists meet rigorous standards to earn and maintain their certification.
To begin a career as a CRNA, students need to take and pass the National Certification Examination (NCE), sometimes referred to as “the boards.” Before taking the NCE, NBCRNA recommends taking the Self-Evaluation Examination (SEE).
Below is more information about the NCE and SEE.
National Certification Examination (NCE)
From January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2023, a total of 3,613 NCE’s were administered; 3,008 candidates were first-time takers with a pass rate of 83.2%. The total number certified during this time frame was 2,861. A list of newly certified CRNAs by state of residence is published monthly here. Learn more about the NCE on the NCE Resources page.
Self-Evaluation Examinations (SEE)
A total of 6,361 exams were administered during the 12-month period between January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2023. Learn more about the SEE on the SEE Resources page.
Nurse Anesthetist Student Demographics
As of December 31, 2023, there were 3,300* newly enrolled students. See other student demographics below.
