Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a registered nurse to become a member of ARN?

No, membership in ARN is open to RNs and other interested individuals engaged in or concerned with the active practice of rehabilitation nursing. Voting membership is limited to RNs, but licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) are encouraged to join the association, take advantage of programs and services, and enjoy all the other benefits of membership.

Do I have to have a bachelor's degree to be a member of ARN?

No, a bachelor's degree is not currently a requirement for membership in ARN.

Do I have to be certified to be a member of ARN?

No, not at all. In fact, it's best to join ARN prior to seeking certification to take advantage of the sizeable member discount on the certification examination application fee. ARN also offers educational resources to help nurses prepare for the CRRN® examination available to ARN members at a discounted rate.

Is ARN only for nurses working in acute rehabilitation units or rehabilitation facilities?

No, any nurse with an interest in rehabilitation is welcome to join ARN. To find out more information on specific roles within rehabilitation nursing, read our Role Descriptions. Rehabilitation nurses base their practice on rehabilitation and restorative principles in practice settings across the continuum of care, including hospitals, comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation units, long-term care facilities, home healthcare agencies, skilled nursing facilities, clinics, community and governmental agencies, insurance companies, health maintenance organizations, schools and universities, and private practice.

Is ARN only for advanced-level nurses?

No, ARN addresses the needs of professional rehabilitation nurses in all roles and settings. While there are advanced practice nurses in ARN, there are also large numbers of staff nurses, case managers, and nurses at all levels of experience. Special interest groups and a variety of publications provide access to information and networking in a wide range of subspecialties.

What types of benefits do I receive as an ARN Member?

As a Nurse or Affiliate member of ARN, you will receive

What's the difference between a voting, nonvoting and corporate membership?

A Voting Membership is for registered nurses concerned with or involved in the practice of rehabilitation nursing. Voting members can vote and hold office. Voting members pay annual dues of $130. RNs must join ARN as a Voting Member.

A Nonvoting Membership is available to licensed practical and vocational nurses, members of healthcare disciplines other than rehabilitation nursing, and to other interested individuals. Nonvoting Members cannot vote or hold office. Nonvoting members pay annual dues of $130.

Corporate and Facility Memberships are special nonvoting memberships open to companies and facilities that support the goals and mission of ARN. These members receive preferential exhibit booth placement and special recognition at the ARN conference. They are also listed in ARN's membership directory, Rehabilitation Nursing Journal, and on the ARN website. Corporate and facility members receive a member plaque. Membership is extended to a single organizational designee who receives one full registration to the ARN annual conference, a subscription to Rehabilitation Nursing Journal and ARN Pulse, and reduced fees for ARN mailing labels, programs, and products. Corporate and facility members pay annual dues of $3,000.

Does ARN offer a certification program?

Through the Rehabilitation Nursing Certification Board, ARN offers the Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN®) credential. Today, there are more than 13,000 CRRNs.

What kinds of educational programs does ARN offer?

ARN provides a wide range of educational opportunities. The annual educational conference is the perfect combination of learning and networking. Online courses such as the Professional Rehabilitation Nursing or PRN Course provides a thorough overview of rehabilitation concepts, the Online CRRN Review and Introduction to Rehabilitation Nursing Courses are for nurses new to rehab and/or preparing for the CRRN Exam. Other resources include opportunities to earn quick CE, in smaller, bite-sized portions, like the ARN Pulse (formerly ARN Network) and Rehabilitation Nursing Journal, as well as live events like webinars and live in-person courses which are deeply discounted to members.

How do I join a chapter of ARN?

Joining your local chapter is very simple. Just click here to find the chapter nearest you and join online. Please note that you must be a member of the national organization to be eligible for chapter membership.

I am a member of ARN. How do I obtain discounts to benefits?

Once you have joined ARN and created a login ID and password, you must wait 24 hours to gain access to members-only resources online, including CRRN Exam Registration and Renewal. However, you will have immediate access to member discounts in the ARN Store, including conference and event registration.

Your ID and password is your unique identification. The login is a security measure to prevent nonmembers from gaining access to this restricted area of the Web site. Each time you visit the ARN website, you will be required to login to access Members Only benefits. The login data is verified against the ARN database to ensure that you are a member.

How do I change my login password?

If you have already created an ID and password, go to "Login" and select the "Forgot MyPassword" link. You will receive an email with a link and directions on how to reset your password.

And if you have more questions, feel free to call our Member Services team, M-F, 8am-6pm CT, at 800.229.7530, or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.!

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