To assure public safety, nurses in Canada must pass a licensing examination to practise in Canada. The CNA develops, manages and updates the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination to reflect changes in the health care system that affect nursing. Some registered nurses choose to specialize in particular areas of nursing practice. These nurses can become certified in their area of specialization by writing a certification exam. CNA administers certification exams in more than 10 specialties.

The Code of Ethics for Registered Nurses, a product of CNA, identifies principles to govern the ethical practice of nursing across the country. CNA has also articulated national regulatory frameworks for continuing competence and advanced nursing practice, as well as statements on regulatory matters such as educational requirements for entry into practice, telehealth and scope of practice.