Application and Scheduling

Create an online account with Credentia Platform system. The Credentia Platform system makes online registration quick and easy, and much faster than mailing a paper application.

Account Creation

To create a Credentia Platform account, follow the steps below:

1. Navigate to https://www.credentia.com/test-takers/va/.
2. Click Login.
3. Click Sign-Up to create new account.
4. Enter the required details.
5. Select the check box corresponding to By clicking Sign Up, you agree to our Terms and Data Policy.
6. Click Sign Up to create a new account.

Registration Process

• Pay by credit card or pre-paid credit card (American Express, MasterCard, Visa) or ACH/ electronic check, or electronic voucher. Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable once you have paid.
• For exams at test center locations, make an online reservation using a laptop or computer. Using your phone or a tablet is not recommended. Make your reservation at least ten (10) calendar days before the test date. 
• For Written or Oral online exams, you can schedule an exam as early as one day following registration, depending on when exam availability.
• Complete your Online application in Credentia Platform. If you need help or have any questions about the application process, contact a support representative at 888-204-6249.

Additional Information May Be Needed from Candidates

If you have ever had a criminal conviction, been denied certification/ licensure in Virginia or another state, had action taken against your certificate/license in Virginia or another state, or have a mental, physical, or chemical dependency condition that could interfere with your ability to practice, you must indicate such history on your online application.

Failure to reveal this information is considered falsification of an application and grounds for denial of certification or disciplinary action by the Board of Nursing even after successful completion of the NNAAP®.

You must provide additional information about your criminal convictions, other state actions, or conditions that could interfere with safe practice.

If you have a criminal conviction, upload the following information for review by the Board:

• A certified copy of all conviction order(s) from the court(s).
• Evidence that all court ordered requirements were met (i.e., letter from the probation officer if on supervised probation, paid fines, restitution, etc.) for each conviction. 
• Letter from you explaining the facts and circumstances leading to the criminal offense. 
• Letters of support from your employers. (If available) 

If you had previous action taken against you or been denied a license or certification, upload the following information for review by the Board: 

• Explanation of the action that was taken (where and when it occurred, details leading to the complaint/action taken). 
• An official, certified copy from the regulatory authority of the final Order outlining the outcome of the action taken.

If you have a mental, physical, or chemical dependency condition that could interfere with practice, upload the following information for review by the Board:

• Evidence of any past treatment related to the condition. (i.e., discharge summary from inpatient and/or outpatient treatment)
• Letter from currently treating health care providers addressing diagnosis, treatment regimen, compliance with treatment, and ability to practice safely. 
• A letter from you explaining circumstances of your condition and ongoing efforts to function safely. 
• Letters of support from your employers. (If available)

Note: Although these circumstances may be grounds to deny an applicant, it does not mean the Board of Nursing will deny your application for certification. A delay in testing should be expected and sometimes a meeting with the Board is required to determine approval for certification by examination.

Accommodations 

Credentia complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable accommodations to anyone with a documented disability who might need a little help in accessing the test.

Test accommodations may include things like: 
• A separate testing room 
• Extra testing time 
• A Reader or Recorder, for individuals with mobility, hearing or vision difficulties who cannot read or write on their own

Test accommodations will be considered on a case-by-case basis. If you’re requesting accommodations because of a disability, you must provide proof of your condition. 

This may include:
• Supporting documents from the professional who diagnosed the condition
• A description of past accommodations that you have received
Please visit www.credentia.com/accommodations to review the Request for Accommodations for Nurse, Nurse Aide, and Medication Aide Testing guidance document provided by the Virginia Board of Nursing.

Light Duty 

Federal law says that you cannot take the Skills Evaluation if you’re on restricted activity or light duty for medical reasons. You must be able to complete all required skills included in the Skills Evaluation. THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS TO THIS RULE. Candidates who are on light duty are not permitted to take the Skills Evaluation, but light duty does not prevent you from taking the Written Examination.

The Virginia Board of Nursing updated their policies and eligibility routes as of January 30, 2024. All applications approved prior to 01/30/2024 will adhere to the prior instructions. All applications submitted on 01/30/2024 or after must comply with the new application requirements and instructions.