The Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam (CPNRE) is a mandatory computer-based examination for individuals seeking to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). Administered by Meazure Learning through secure online proctoring, the CPNRE consists of 160-180 multiple-choice questions that assess the entry-level competencies required for practical nursing. 

To be eligible to write the CPNRE, you must be a successful graduate of a practical nursing program in Canada. The College of Nurses of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut (CNNN) determines your eligibility to write the CPNRE. You can begin the CPNRE application by completing the following forms and returning them to info@cannn.ca

• Instructor Reference – An instructor reference completed and sent directly by your instructor to CNNN.
• CPNRE Application Form
• CPNRE Application Payment Authorization Form
• Confirmation of Program Completion Form
• Two pieces of government-issued ID (including one photo ID)
• A satisfactory criminal record check with vulnerable sector

Once your application is approved, you will receive an email from us. CNNN will then forward your name to Meazure Learning, who will review the information.  Within a week, you can expect to receive an email from Meazure Learning inviting you to schedule your exam date and time. 

• January 1 – 31
• March 1 – 31
• May 1 – 31
• July 1 – 31
• September 1 – 30
• November 1 – 30

Please visit the Online Proctoring FAQ for Candidates using the Meazure Exam Platform – Meazure Learning for up-to-date information about technical requirements and how to write the exam. You can also visit the Yardstick website for additional information and resources related to the CPNRE

When will I receive my exam results?
CNNN releases exam results within four to six weeks after the testing window closes. you will be notified by email within five days of receiving the results.  

Can I apply for a registration with CNNN after I pass the exam?
Yes. You can apply for initial LPN registration by signing into the applicant portal created for you by our staff when applying for your CPNRE examination. You will need to click on ‘forgot password’ and use the email address provided in your CPNRE application to receive a temporary password. Once signed in, you will see the option to start a new application for LPN registration.

What are my options if I fail the exam
If you fail the exam, CNNN will send you an email with a performance profile within five business days of posting the exam results. This profile will identify areas that need improvement for the next exam attempt. If you choose to re-write the exam, you must reapply following the standard application process. Once you have scheduled your next CPNRE attempt, you can choose to apply for a temporary certificate by following the process outlined HERE. If it is your third failure, and you hold a temporary certificate, the certificate will be cancelled. After a fourth unsuccessful attempt, you will no longer be eligible to register as an LPN with CNNN.

I am a student in a province that administers the REx-PN, but I plan to move to the NWT or NU after graduation. Should I write the REx-PN or the CPNRE exam?
CNNN encourages all graduates to write the exam in the jurisdiction where they received their education. If you are applying to CNNN for your initial registration, you must write the CPNRE.

I failed the CPNRE. Can I write the REx-PN?
To determine if you are eligible to write the REx-PN, you will need to contact one of the jurisdictions that offer that exam and inquire about their eligibility criteria.

During my school program, I required testing accommodations. How do I apply for accommodations to write the CPNRE?
To request accommodations, please contact CNNN to obtain an accommodations application form. Submit the completed application along with any required documentation.