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RNC-NIC for travel nurses Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing · National Certification Corporation (NCC)

Board certification in neonatal intensive care. Preferred on many NICU contracts. Eligibility: A current U.S. or Canadian RN license and 24 months of NICU experience totaling at least 2,000 hours (both are required), with specialty employment in the last 24 months. Cost: $325, including a $50 non-refundable application fee. Valid 3 years.

Updated October 2026

Type
Board certification (exam)
Valid
3 years
Cost
$325, including a $50 non-refundable application fee
Issued by
National Certification Corporation

Which travel specialties ask for it

Eligibility and exam

Who can get it
A current U.S. or Canadian RN license and 24 months of NICU experience totaling at least 2,000 hours (both are required), with specialty employment in the last 24 months.
Cost
$325, including a $50 non-refundable application fee.
Valid for
3 years.
Renewal
A continuing competency assessment, then continuing education based on it, and a maintenance fee.
National Certification Corporation: current requirements and fees →

Tips for travelers

  • Both the 24 months and the 2,000 hours have to be met. If you've worked part time, check NCC's candidate guide before you apply.
  • Ask your agency whether it reimburses the exam fee; many do for credentials a contract requires.
  • Add the expiration date to your profile: agencies track it, and an expired card can hold up a start date.

Questions

Do travel nurses need RNC-NIC?
NICU contracts often prefer it. Each hospital sets its own list, so check the job post.
Who is eligible for RNC-NIC?
A current U.S. or Canadian RN license and 24 months of NICU experience totaling at least 2,000 hours (both are required), with specialty employment in the last 24 months.
How much does RNC-NIC cost?
$325, including a $50 non-refundable application fee.
How long is RNC-NIC valid?
3 years. A continuing competency assessment, then continuing education based on it, and a maintenance fee.

Other certifications: BLS · ACLS · PALS · NRP · NIHSS · TNCC · CEN · CCRN · PCCN · CMSRN · CNOR · CPN · PMH-BC

Eligibility, fees and validity from the National Certification Corporation (NCC)'s site, checked 2026-10-16. Fees and rules change; confirm with the issuer before you register. Which specialties ask for it reflects common travel job posts; each hospital sets its own requirements.