What is true about license and certification for nurse practitioners?

The statement that certification must precede applying for a license is accurate because, in many jurisdictions, nurse practitioners must obtain certification in their specialty before they can apply for and obtain a license to practice. Certification typically involves passing a national exam that validates a nurse practitioner's specialized knowledge and competencies. This requirement ensures that only those who are qualified and have demonstrated proficiency in their specific area are allowed to practice as nurse practitioners.

Licensure and certification serve different purposes and are managed by different entities. Certification demonstrates that a nurse practitioner has met specific educational and competency standards necessary for a specialized role, while licensure grants the legal permission to practice as a healthcare provider in a given state or region.