Updated NP Scope of Practice and Permits in Alberta

The CRNA's council has approved the updated Scope of Practice for Nurse Practitioners. The scope outlines how legislation, regulation, practice setting and competence define nurse practitioner (NP) practice. 

NP Permit Types 

Beginning with the 2026-2027 practice year, registrants current registered in the Family/All Ages, Adult or Child streams will transition to the nurse practitioner permit through the regular renewal process. Neonatal NP permits will remain unchanged. 

The CRNA will issue four NP permit types:  

• Nurse Practitioner 
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner 
• Graduate Nurse Practitioner 
• Graduate Neonatal Nurse Practitioner 

Competence  

Holding an NP permit authorizes practice within the legislated scope, but competence determines what care each NP may safely provide.  

When planning a significant change in practice, NPs must ensure they have the appropriate knowledge, skills and supports to provide safe patient care.