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Now that you understand what the role of an adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner entails, it’s time to learn the steps for entering this career path.

Step 1: Become a Licensed RN

You can start your journey by getting through the Florida Board of Nursing. You also have the option of becoming an RN in another state prior to applying for an advanced nursing license in Florida.

To obtain an RN license in Florida, you will need to:

• Earn a degree from an approved nursing program–
• Pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Complete a background check and electronic fingerprinting
• Submit a licensure application with the required fee

Step 2: Gain Acute Care Experience

Most AGACNP programs expect applicants to have hands-on experience working for patients in critical care settings. As a result, it’s helpful to build the gain the following types of experience:

• 1–2 years of RN experience in an area focused on critical care like an ICU
• Direct patient care involving critically ill adults

This experience strengthens your clinical judgment and helps to prepare you for APRN training in the area of acute care.

Step 3: Earn a Graduate Degree (MSN or Higher)

Next, you’ll need an advanced nursing degree with a focus on adult-gerontology acute care. The type of program you choose will depend on your existing level of education.

Some possible AGACNP education pathways include:

• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program: For RNs who already have a bachelor’s degree
• RN to MSN program: Allowing RNs to complete both a bachelor’s and a master’s in the same program
• Post-master’s AGACNP certificate program: For RNs who already have an MSN but have not yet specialized in adult-gerontology acute care

Your program should include:

• Advanced coursework in pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and topics related specifically to adult-gerontology acute care
• Supervised clinical rotations in acute care settings

Make sure your program is accredited by a recognized body such as CCNE, ACEN, or NLN CNEA, as this is required for certification.

Step 4: Obtain National Certification

After completing your degree, you must pass your AGACNP national board certification exam. You can choose from one of these two credentialing organizations:

Both certification exams include:

• 175 questions (150 being scored)
• A time limit of 3.5 hours

Passing this exam officially designates you as an AGACNP. Your certification demonstrates that you have mastered the fundamentals of advanced practice nursing within your specialty area.

Step 5: Apply for Florida APRN Licensure

In Florida, nurse practitioners are . To apply for this type of license, you’ll need:

• Proof of RN licensure from any U.S. jurisdiction (required only when you first apply for your APRN license)
• Transcripts from your graduate program
• Verification of national certification
• Proof of malpractice insurance or exemption
• Completion of electronic fingerprinting (Livescan)
• Submission of your licensure application to the Florida Board of Nursing, with the required fee

All applications are reviewed within 30 days of receipt, according to the Florida Board of Nursing.

Step 6: Maintain Your Credentials

To avoid interruption to your practice as an AGACNP, it’s important to keep all licenses and certifications current. Renewals to consider include:

• Florida APRN license: Every 2 years
• National certification: Every 5 years

Renewal usually involves:

• Continuing education (CE) hours
• Renewal fees
• Compliance with state-specific training requirements (e.g., in Florida)