Certifications/Healthcare
CredentialHealthcare

ENC(C) — Emergency Nursing certification

ENC(C) is a national credential that shows a registered nurse has strong skills and knowledge in emergency nursing. It is voluntary, so you do not need it to work in an emergency department.

Official website ↗
Written by AI from public information on 2026-10-26. Fees and rules change and vary by province — confirm with the official body before relying on anything here.
Typical cost
about CA$800 to CA$1,200
an estimate in Canadian dollars
Time to earn it
about 3 to 6 months
Renewal
every 5 years
Issued by Canadian Nurses Association

About

The ENC(C) is issued by the Canadian Nurses Association. It recognizes nurses who work in emergency care and have proven their expertise through a national exam. Emergency nurses assess patients quickly, set priorities, and care for people with sudden illness or injury.

This credential is a way to show employers and colleagues that you meet a national standard. It can support your career growth, help you stand out when applying for roles, and show your commitment to emergency nursing. You can work as an emergency room nurse without it, but many nurses choose to earn it for professional pride and advancement.

How to get it

  1. Become a registered nurse
    Complete a nursing degree and register with your provincial or territorial nursing regulator. You must hold a current licence to practise.
  2. Gain emergency nursing experience
    Work in an emergency setting for a good stretch of time. The Canadian Nurses Association sets the practice experience you need before you can apply.
  3. Prepare for the exam
    Review the exam guide and study the key areas of emergency nursing. Many nurses study over a few months, using practice questions and study groups.
  4. Apply and pay the fees
    Submit your application to the Canadian Nurses Association with proof of your licence and your work experience. Exam and application fees apply.
  5. Write the exam
    Sit the written certification exam at an approved testing site. Once you pass, you may use the ENC(C) credential after your name.

The exam

The certification exam is a written, multiple-choice test. It covers the knowledge and judgment used in emergency nursing, such as assessing patients, setting priorities, and responding to urgent situations. The Canadian Nurses Association provides an exam guide to help you prepare.

Careers that mention it

Keeping it

ENC(C) must be kept current on a regular cycle. You usually renew by showing that you are still working in emergency nursing and keeping your skills up to date through learning activities. Check the Canadian Nurses Association requirements before your credential expires so you do not lapse.