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The CNOR is valid for five years, and for nurses certified or recertified in 2019 or later you renew
through CCI’s points-based accrual program — not by retaking the exam. Here’s what
CCI requires.
How long is the CNOR valid?
Five years from the date you certify or recertify.
How do you renew?
You accrue 300 professional activity points over the five-year cycle from a range of
qualifying activities (continuing education, practice, precepting, presenting, and more), then submit your
recertification. Recertification by exam was eliminated effective January 1, 2021, so the
points pathway is the standard route.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cycle | 5 years |
| Requirement | 300 professional activity points |
| Recertification fee | $400 |
| Extension Year (if needed) | $250 |
| Emeritus status (retiring) | $100 |
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Frequently asked questions
How long is the CNOR valid?
The CNOR is valid for five years.
How do you renew the CNOR?
Nurses certified or recertified in 2019 or later accrue 300 professional activity points over the five-year cycle and submit recertification to CCI; the fee is $400. Recertification by exam was eliminated effective January 1, 2021.
Do you have to retake the CNOR exam to renew?
No. Recertification by exam was eliminated in 2021. You renew by accruing 300 professional activity points over the five-year cycle.
Sources & references
The exam facts on this page are drawn from official certifying-body materials, reviewed 2026-06-18 by the DrCertifications exam-prep team (10+ years in exam preparation and publishing).