PMHNP Practice Test
Your Proven Shortcut to Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification (PMHNP-BC) Success
Get exam-style questions, detailed explanations, and realistic timing to master the latest American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Prepare PMHNP practice test then walk into your Nursing exam with confidence.
"Join thousands who passed their test by practicing with Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification (PMHNP-BC) exam questions just like the real thing."
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How Our Practice Test Works?
Study wherever, whenever with these quiz types:
Pick a Mode
You can choose Exam Mode (timed 90-minute simulation) or Study Mode for preparation.
Realistic Mix
Questions reflect both multiple-choice and scenario/performance-style prompts aligned to PMHNP objectives.
Detailed Explanations
Every question includes a clear explanation, so you know why an answer is correct.
Domain Analytics
See strengths/weaknesses by the domains & sub-topics to focus your revision.
Reattempts
Retake sets to improve your speed and accuracy; watch your score trend toward the benchmark.
Exam Simulator
Get a feel for the real exam with our American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) practice test.
Why Choose PrepHOW for PMHNP Practice Questions
Train the way you'll be tested. Our platform replicates the real American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) experience and turns every attempt into clear, actionable progress-so you waste less time and pass sooner.
Real Exam Feel
Exam/Study modes, question flagging, and instant or end-of-exam feedback.
Smarter Analytics, Faster Improvement
Trend charts so you can see when you're consistently above the passing scrore.
Quality You Can Trust
Clear, teach-back explanations with why the correct answer is right and why others aren't.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PMHNP certification exam and who administers it?
The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) certification exam is a national credentialing examination that validates your knowledge and competency to practice as a PMHNP. Two organizations administer PMHNP certification exams: the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB). Both are nationally recognized, though they have slightly different formats and content emphases.
Who is eligible to take the PMHNP exam?
To be eligible, candidates must hold an active RN license and a master’s, post-graduate, or doctoral degree from an accredited psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner program. The program must include both didactic and clinical components in advanced psychiatric nursing practice.
What are the main content areas covered on the exam blueprint?
Both certifying bodies organize the content into several major domains, which typically include:
- Scientific Foundation (e.g., neuroanatomy, advanced pharmacology).
- Advanced Practice Skills (e.g., clinical interviewing, risk assessment).
- Diagnosis and Treatment (e.g., using DSM-5 criteria, pharmacotherapeutic management).
- Psychotherapy and Related Theories (e.g., principles of various psychotherapies).
- Ethics, Legal Principles, and Cultural Care (e.g., scope of confidentiality, patient advocacy).
How is the exam scored?
It uses a scaled scoring system where a score of 350 or higher (on a scale of 1-500) is required to pass. You'll see a preliminary score report immediately after the exam.
How do I apply and register?
Apply through the ANCC website, submit required documents (transcripts, validation of education form), pay the fee, and schedule your exam with Prometric after receiving Authorization to Test (ATT) email.
What career opportunities come with PMHNP certification?
PMHNP holders can work in high-demand roles like outpatient clinics, inpatient psychiatry, substance abuse treatment, or VA systems, often with salaries averaging $120,000-$150,000 annually. It expands scope to prescribe medications, conduct therapy, and lead mental health programs, addressing the growing need for providers amid mental health crises. Many pursue telepsychiatry for flexibility.
How should I prepare for the PMHNP certification exam?
Effective preparation typically includes 2-3 months of dedicated study using multiple resources: comprehensive review books, Prephow PMHNP practice question banks, review courses (online or in-person), and study groups. Focus on high-yield topics like psychopharmacology, DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria, differential diagnosis, and lifespan considerations. Practice questions that mirror the exam format are particularly valuable for familiarizing yourself with the test style.