Register January 1 – April 30 to the take the CPAN and/or CAPA Exams March 15 – May 15

Next Recertification Window: January 1 – April 30, 2026

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Which Exam is Right for You?

Find your path to certification here. It will help you determine whether CPAN or CAPA certification is the right one for you.

Start Here

Step 1

Gather Information

Read the Certification Candidate Handbook thoroughly. Review eligibility requirements. Choose a registration window, noting dates and deadlines.

Step 2

Study

Take advantage of ABPANC’s study resources, many of which are FREE. Try the Practice Tests and Question of the Week. Review current resources. Connect with a Coach.

Step 3

Test Registration

Locate your testing site ahead of time. Create an account on Learning Builder and register for the appropriate test online. Sign up for Test Assured! Obtain a receipt and authorization. Pass with flying colors!

Step 4

Congratulations

Move forward in your career with certification proving your current knowledge and skills are up to date. Track your CEs on Learning Builder. Come back to recertify when needed.

CPAN® and CAPA® Certification

The American Board of Perianesthesia Nursing Certification, Inc. (ABPANC) is responsible for developing, sponsoring and managing the Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN®) and the Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA®) nursing certification programs. These national professional certification programs are designed for registered nurses caring for patients who have experienced sedation, analgesia and anesthesia in a hospital or ambulatory care facility.
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Certification Recertification Resources

The Benefits of CPAN® and CAPA® Certification

Join an elite group of board-certified perianesthesia nursing colleagues

Become CPAN or CAPA certified to:

  • Improve patient care and safety
  • Enhance employer confidence
  • Validate professional experience
  • Commit to lifelong learning
  • Strengthen credibility
  • Increase earning potential

News & Events

Question of the Week

According to ASPAN Standards of Perianesthesia Nursing Practice, minimum safe staffing parameters for Phase I PACU includes:

  1. at least two registered nurses.
  2. a nurse-patient ratio of 1:1 for general surgical patients.
  3. a nurse-patient ratio of 1:3 for ambulatory surgical patients.
  4. at least one nurse.
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