Exam Information

Exam Objectives

The Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Certification Examination evaluates a nurse practitioner's ability to:

• Assess and diagnose dermatological conditions across the lifespan (35%).
• Prescribe and perform interventions using evidence-based treatments and procedures (35%).
• Educate patients, families, and professionals about dermatological conditions (25%).
• Engage in professional activities to promote healthcare outcomes (5%).

Exam Information

The test consists of 175 multiple choice questions written within the dermatology nurse practitioner scope of practice. The exam will take approximately four (4) hours to complete.

Explanation of Scores

The total score given in the report after you take the exam is a transformation of your raw score (the number of questions answered correctly) to a scaled score, referred to as a "standard" in your report. Therefore, the total score given in your report is neither the actual number of questions answered correctly nor the percentage of questions answered correctly.

Scaling converts raw scores from different test forms to a uniform scale so that they can be directly compared. It is a process similar to converting weight from pounds to kilograms or converting temperature from Fahrenheit to Celsius. The scale used for this examination has a mean (average) of 100 and a standard deviation of 10. A scaled score of 95 is required to pass the exam.

About 74% of the questions must be answered correctly to reach the passing standard score of 95.

Persons with standard scores less than 95 are provided with an additional report of their performance on the main content areas of the test. In reviewing these scores, candidates should keep in mind that the number of test questions in each area may vary greatly. For example, one subscore area may contain 55% of the questions while another subscore area may contain 30% of the questions.

Review Course Information

There are several ways to study for the DCNP exam. You can view a list of study references and sample test questions, as well as visiting the websites below for information on on-demand, virtual and in person review courses:

1. The Dermatology Nurse Association
2. The Center for Dermatology Nursing Practice
3. The Society of Dermatology Nurse Practitioners

If you would like to add your review course to this list, please email us as admin@dnpcb.org for further information.