CARN Certification: Overview and FAQ
Are you curious about earning a Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (CARN) certification? This credential is for experienced nurses working in substance abuse and psychiatric nursing. Earning specialty credentials can help you gain confidence, become a more competitive applicant, and earn more in your current position. Here’s an overview of this certification and how to earn it.
Over 46 million Americans face substance use disorders every year, and many need medical support. Nurses who work in substance use and psychiatric facilities are essential in helping these patients detox from substances and take steps toward recovery. CARN-certified nurses may work in any of the following settings:
- Substance use rehab facilities
- Hospital psychiatric units
- Outpatient substance use clinics
- Community health programs
- Correctional facilities
- Private practices
What Is CARN Certification?
This credential shows that a nurse has the experience and knowledge to offer the best care to patients with substance use issues. It’s offered by the Addictions Nursing Certification Board (ACNB), and it’s the leading credential for nurses in this specialty.
A CARN-certified nurse has shown expertise in assessing, developing care plans, educating, and treating patients in the following clinical areas:
- Opioid use disorder
- Alcohol use disorder
- Medication misuse
- Co-occurring psychiatric and comorbid medical issues
- Stimulant use disorder
- Cannabinoids and hallucinogens
- Tobacco use disorder
Benefits of Specialty Certifications for Nurses
You don’t have to earn this credential to be a great substance use nurse, but specialty certifications like this one have been shown to benefit nurses, patients, and facilities. Here’s how:
- Higher job satisfaction
- Lower rates of infection
- Better clinical outcomes
- Lower odds of mortality
- Potentially higher income
- Rates of nurse certifications influence Magnet status
How to Become a Certified Addictions Registered Nurse: 4 Steps
Ready to become a certified addictions registered nurse? Follow the steps below to obtain this credential.
Step 1: Meet Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the exam, you’ll need to meet the ACNBs CARN certification requirements, listed below:
- A current RN license
- 30 hours of continued education
- At least 2,000 of experience in addiction nursing within the past 3 years
Step 2: Apply for Certification
To apply, complete the exam application in full. You’ll need to include the following:
- A description of your experience
- Contact information for a supervisor
- A tally of your continuing education activities
- A copy of your RN license
- A copy of a photo ID
- An application fee
Step 3: Pass the CARN Exam
Processing times are typically four weeks from when applications are received. Once your application is approved, you’ll be registered for the exam and receive a permit in your email. The permit will be active for 90 days, and you’ll need to take the exam within that window to avoid having to reapply.
On exam day, come with a photo ID that matches your application. The exam is computer-based, and it’s 150 questions long. You’ll receive a full score report once you finish, and a passing score is 75% correct or more. If you don’t pass, you’ll receive a more detailed score report to show areas of improvement.
To prepare, create your own CARN certification study guide using the exam blueprint. Looking for other study resources? Boston Medical Center’s Grayken Center for Addiction Training offers a free CARN review course. They also have practice questions and additional material to help you prepare. Additionally, StatPearls offers a paid CARN study guide with 355 prep questions.
Step 4: Maintain Your Credential
This credential is valid for four years from the date it’s awarded, and you can renew it up to six months before it expires. To renew, you’ll need to complete these requirements:
- At least 2,000 hours of addictions-related nursing within the past 4 years
- 60 hours of continuing education within the past 4 years (at least 51% of hours must directly relate to addictions)
- Recertification application form
- Renewal fee
Addictions Nursing Certification FAQs
Is the CARN exam difficult?
Of the most recent test scores, 63% of nurses who took the CARN exam passed. Prepare well for the test, review the provided study materials, and take your time reviewing to give yourself the best chance of passing.
How long does it take to become a CARN?
Earning this certification comes after experience and education, and it’ll take you at least three years to qualify. Here are the steps you’d need to take to be ready for this certification:
- Attend a prelicensure nursing program: 2–4 years
- Gain experience in addictions nursing: 1–2 years
- Apply and study for the CARN exam: 1–3 months
Related Certifications
- Certified Addiction Registered Nurse – Advanced Practice (CARN-AP Certification)
- Psychiatric Nurse Certification (PMH-BC)
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist (PMHCNS-BC)
- Nurse Coach Certification
Find Roles in Addictions Nursing
Looking for opportunities to help patients live better? Whether you have CARN certification or not, IntelyCare has roles for substance use nurses and other specialties. Learn more with personalized job notifications that alert you when roles open up in your location and specialty.