How do you become a substance abuse nurse?
A substance abuse (addictions) nurse is a registered nurse who cares for people with alcohol and drug use disorders: detox, medication management, counseling support and education. You need an RN license and, optionally, addictions nursing certification.
Settings
Detox units, treatment centers, hospitals, methadone and buprenorphine clinics, correctional facilities and community programs. Related work is covered in psychiatric nursing.
Certification
The Addictions Nursing Certification Board offers certified addictions registered nurse (CARN) credentials for nurses with experience. It is voluntary.
Pay
Not a separate federal category. The median RN earned $97,550 in May 2025.
Pay and projections: Bureau of Labor Statistics. NCLEX figures: NCSBN. Enrollment: AACN. Sources and years are ondata sources.