How to Become a Nurse Anesthetist

Modern surgical techniques and technologies are not possible without anesthesia. Anesthesiology is the branch of medical science that uses special medication to create temporary numbness at the surgical site or, for more complex cases, put the patient into a deep sleep-like state to block all pain and sensation until after the procedure is complete.

If this sounds interesting, becoming a nurse anesthetist — also known as a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) — may be an ideal career for you. It is a time-consuming and challenging educational path, but for the right candidate, it can lead to a personally and financially satisfying career, as nurse anesthesiology is the highest-paid of all nursing specialties.

Explore the nurse anesthetist profession, including how to become a CRNA, the average salary, and career outlook.

Nurse anesthetists deliver anesthesia and pain management services to patients before, during, and after surgical and invasive procedures. They are part of a special category of nurses known as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs).

CRNAs assess patient needs and administer the appropriate amount of anesthesia for pain relief and sedation. They typically work alongside anesthesia care teams, nurses, and surgeons in hospitals, surgical clinics, and physician offices.

CRNAs may work independently or under the supervision of a physician, such as an anesthesiologist, depending on their state’s supervision requirements.

To become a nurse anesthetist, you must earn both an undergraduate and graduate degree in nursing and obtain registered nurse (RN) and CRNA licenses. You will also need to gain some work experience along the way. Program and licensure requirements may vary based on the institution, employer, and state.

Nurse anesthetists need at least a BSN and DNP to apply for licensure. The time spent completing this degree can vary from 5-8 years based on the program pace or whether you already have an ADN.

A BSN degree is the minimum requirement for RN licensure and entry into a nurse anesthesia program. A BSN program not only provides you with a healthcare foundation for your future studies, but it also equips you with the skills to gain experience in acute care settings.

As of 2025, CRNAs must earn a COA-accredited DNAP or DNP degree. These doctoral nurse anesthesia programs provide the skills and competencies required to obtain CRNA licensure.

Nurse anesthetists need both national certification and state licensure to practice in the United States. You must have an RN license and a DNP to take the national certification exam. Practice hours and continuing education requirements to maintain RN licensure vary by state.

Passing the nurse anesthetist certification exam qualifies you for licensure which you can apply for through your state nursing board. To maintain certification and licensure, CRNAs must complete the Continued Professional Certification program from the NBCRNA. This program offers 100 continuing education credits every four years and an assessment every eight years.

CRNAs are among the highest-paying occupations in the country. A nurse anesthetist’s salary is also the highest among all nurses, including APRNs.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nurse anesthetists earned an average annual salary of $214,200 as of May 2023. Depending on where you live, you may have the opportunity to earn more. These were the top five highest-paying states for nurse anesthetists in May 2023.