The NBPNS certification exam is a voluntary credentialing exam for physicians that recognizes advanced knowledge and expertise in clinical nutrition and its application to patient care. Physicians who pass earn the designation Physician Nutrition Specialist®.

Certification demonstrates a commitment to high standards in evidence-based nutrition care. It helps distinguish physicians with advanced expertise, enhances professional credibility, and signals to patients, colleagues, and organizations that the physician meets a recognized standard in clinical nutrition.

NBPNS certification is designed for physicians with broad interests in clinical nutrition, including disease management, prevention, and nutrition therapy across the life course.

No. Certification is voluntary. However, it provides a recognized credential that reflects expertise and commitment to the field.

The exam is offered year-round. Candidates can apply and schedule their exam at a time that fits their professional schedule.

Yes. The exam is administered online with secure remote proctoring, allowing candidates to test from their home or office. A laptop and mobile phone are required. Read more about remote proctoring in our Candidate Handbook.

Our testing partner is Prolydian.  Visit our testing site to apply, schedule your test, recertify, and/or print your certificate.

Results are emailed to candidates.

Yes. Certificates are emailed to all successful candidates.

The exam has historically had a pass rate of approximately 70–75%.

Candidates must:

• Hold a current medical license (U.S. or international equivalent)
• Be certified in a primary medical specialty (or equivalent)
• Demonstrate expertise in clinical nutrition through training, practice, research, or leadership

Multiple pathways are accepted due to limited formal training programs. Access the Candidate Handbook for details.

No. Candidates must complete residency training and meet all eligibility requirements before applying.

No. Clinical nutrition training must be completed in the role of a physician under appropriate supervision.

Training must be supervised by a qualified physician with demonstrated expertise in clinical nutrition (e.g., board certification, publications, or extensive clinical experience).

Certification is valid for 10 years. Diplomates must complete recertification to maintain an active credential.

No. The exam itself does not provide CME credit.

PNS certification is valid for 10 years. To maintain certification beyond this period, current (non-expired) NBPNS Diplomates may:

• Retake and pass the current NBPNS Board exam (renews certification for 10 years), or
• Fulfill Maintenance of Certification (MOC) requirements by earning 50 or more hours of nutrition-related CME within the past 5 years (renews certification for 5 years).

For individuals with expired certification, reinstatement options include:

• Retaking and passing the NBPNS Board exam (restores certification for 10 years), or
• Providing documentation of 75 or more hours of nutrition-related CME completed within the last 5 years (restores certification for 5 years).

Interested in recertifying?  Start your application.

Major areas include:

• Nutrient metabolism and requirements
• Nutrition across the life cycle
• Disease prevention and management
• Malnutrition
• Obesity and metabolic conditions
• Enteral and parenteral nutrition

Enteral and parenteral nutrition

Candidates should review the Candidate Handbook, assess their experience across topic areas, and engage in continuing education and clinical practice.

No. Complex equations are not required, and normal ranges are provided when needed.

No. NBPNS is an independent certifying board focused specifically on clinical nutrition.

ABMS recognition requires structural and volume criteria that are not well aligned with the specialized field of clinical nutrition. NBPNS was designed to provide a dedicated pathway for physician expertise in this area.

NBPNS certification assesses the full scope of clinical nutrition practice. Other certifications may focus on narrower areas, such as nutrition support.

Yes, Diplomates may reference their certification as PNS following their name and/or Physician Nutrition Specialist® in professional materials.

We encourage you to promote your achievement! Access our Tips for Promoting your PNS Certification.

Yes. Licensed physicians from any country may apply if they meet training and certification requirements.

No. NBPNS certification does not count toward U.S. medical licensure requirements.

It refers to certification obtained after postgraduate medical training and examination that grants recognition to practice a specialty in the physician’s country.