After you successfully complete your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner, you will need to pursue licensure and certification. Family nurse practitioner licensure requirements are set at the state level, meaning each state’s nursing board has the authority to determine the requirements for licensure. It’s best for individuals to check with their state board of nursing for licensure and certification requirements; however, the vast majority of states require individuals to be certified by a national certification board.Each national certification exam is a competency-based examination that tests clinical knowledge in specific focus areas. Each autonomous national nursing certification board assesses entry-level nurse practitioner knowledge and practice competencies required to provide safe and quality healthcare. There are two primary national certification boards that offer the exams necessary for credentialing FNPs: the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) and American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). An FNP who is certified has fulfilled the requirements of a national certification board. Certification boards do not license individuals as FNPs. In order for an individual to be licensed as an FNP, individuals must meet the requirements as set forth by their state nursing board.