How to Become a Family Nurse Practitioner in California

Once you have established yourself as an RN with the right level of education and on-the-job experience, you can apply to a family nurse practitioner graduate program, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with an FNP specialization or post-master’s certificate program if you’re an RN who already earned a master’s degree in another area. Some nurses choose to pursue the highest level of nursing education with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

MSN programs typically take about two years to finish, DNPs typically take three to four years to finish, and post-master’s certificate programs are usually shorter, taking one to two years to complete. When counting your undergraduate education, it can take a total of six to eight years to complete your education to become a family nurse practitioner.

If you are looking for a flexible FNP program that can easily be adjusted to your schedule, you may want to consider enrolling in an online program. This can be especially helpful for aligning your study time with your schedule as a working nurse. Whatever program you choose should be accredited in alignment with certification and licensure standards.

Once you’re formally licensed, you can start working as a family nurse practitioner in California. Remember to network and make the most of any professional contacts you have gained through your program and past nursing career. If you need help finding the right FNP role, you may be able to work with your academic institution, if they offer career support services.

And make sure to renew your national certifications and state license as needed. The ANCC and AANPCB certifications must be renewed every five years, and FNP licensure in California must be renewed every two years, though your first renewal date may be less than two years from your initial certification date due to how the renewal dates are selected.

Learn more about how to renew your nursing licenses in California.