CERTIFICATION CENTRAL

Steps to Becoming a SANE

You must have a minimum of a Registered Nursing (RN) license or its equivalent in your country. SANE practice is outside the scope of practice of a Paramedic or LPN/LVN.

 

Recommend clinically as a RN for at least two (2) years before becoming trained as a SANE.  Clinical assessment skill acquisition is a critical component of being a successful SANE.

 

Note: Eligibilty criteria for our certifications can be found in the Certification Examination Handbook (below). Also be sure to review our Certification Checklist.

Learn about regulations regarding SANE training or practice specific to your state, province, or country.

Online and classroom courses are available. For help selecting the right course, read the Education Guidelines.

Review the clinical education requirements in the SANE Education Guidelines. Clinical skills trainings and preceptorships are both available. A preceptorship allows the SANE to practice clinically under the supervision of an experienced SANE. The preceptor determines when and if a SANE has achieved competency in practice and is able to function independently in the role of SANE.

To find potential employers, check out IAFN’s SANE Program Listing, your local IAFN chapter, or our members-only Forensic Nursing Job Board.

After proper training, clinical preparation, and practice, you may be eligible to sit for board certification.  Full eligibility details are listed in the SANE Certification Handbook below.

April Exam Updates

Approved SANE certification exam applicants for the April 2025 testing window should have received their Notice to Schedule from candidatesupport@MeazureLearning.com on March 3, 2025. Please be sure to check your inbox, spam box, and delete box for this email. If you cannot locate the email, promptly contact certification@ForensicNurses.org.

Renewal Updates

If you last certified or recertified in 2022, 2025 is your year to apply for renewal.

Recertification: The regular filing deadline is Oct 1 at 5:00pm ET. The late filing deadline is Oct 15 at 5:00 pm ET.

What’s the Difference Between a Certificate and Certification? Download a handout or view a short interactive video to learn more

Questions and Important Links: