Registered nurses (RNs) are eligible to receive state licensure when successful on the NCLEX-RN national examination proctored by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are eligible to receive state licensure when successful on a certification exam sponsored by an accrediting organization specific to the APRN track. NPs have a broader range of practice than RN, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medications, and practicing with autonomy similar to that of a physician.