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Nephrology CAQ for PAs: NCCPA requirements

The NCCPA nephrology CAQ is an optional credential for certified PAs. It requires PA-C certification, an unrestricted PA license, specialty CME, nephrology experience hours, an attestation and a passed specialty exam.

NCCPA requirements

Credential
Nephrology Certificate of Added Qualifications (NCCPA)
Prerequisites
Current PA-C certification. A valid, unrestricted license to practice as a PA in at least one US jurisdiction or territory, or unrestricted privileges to practice as a PA for a government agency.
Specialty CME
In the six years before applying for the CAQ exam, a minimum of 75 Category I CME credits focused on the specialty, including 25 earned within the last two years. The same 75 credits may also be used for maintenance of the PA-C credential.
Additional CME
No additional CME requirement is specified beyond the shared 75 credits.
Experience (within six years of attesting)
At least 4,000 hours (two years full-time) working as a PA, including at least 2,000 hours (one year full-time) in nephrology.
Attestation
Attestation from a physician, lead/senior PA, or physician/PA postgraduate program director who works in the specialty.
Exam
Pass the nephrology specialty exam.

Experience hours

  • At least 4,000 hours (two years full-time) working as a PA, including at least 2,000 hours (one year full-time) in nephrology.

What a credentialing office can ask for

  • Current PA-C certification status.
  • A valid PA license for the state where the PA will practice.
  • The nephrology CAQ certificate, if the PA lists it.
  • The specific clinical privileges the PA is requesting.
  • Collaboration or supervision terms, which are set by state law.

A CAQ is optional

A CAQ is optional. It is not a license to practice and it is not a clinical privilege; licensure comes from the state and privileges come from the facility.

Source

As published by NCCPA, read October 15, 2026; confirm on nccpa.net.

Frequently asked questions

Who can earn the nephrology CAQ?

PAs with current PA-C certification and a valid, unrestricted PA license in at least one US jurisdiction or territory, or unrestricted PA privileges for a government agency, who meet the CME, experience and attestation requirements and pass the exam.

How much experience does the nephrology CAQ require?

At least 4,000 hours (two years full-time) working as a PA, including at least 2,000 hours (one year full-time) in nephrology. Hours count within six years of attesting.

Does a nephrology CAQ replace a license or privileges?

A CAQ is optional. It is not a license to practice and it is not a clinical privilege; licensure comes from the state and privileges come from the facility.

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