Short answer
Evidence is often collected up to about 5 days (120 hours) after an assault, depending on your state, but medical care and support are available at any time.
SANE Certification for Nurses (SANE-A and SANE-P)
Registered nurses become Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners after specialized training: at least 40 hours of didactic education plus supervised clinical practice. Two board certifications exist:
- SANE-A®: care of adult and adolescent patients
- SANE-P®: care of pediatric and adolescent patients
Important
2026 change: the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) dissolved in April 2026. The SANE-A and SANE-P credentials moved to the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), which is reviewing the programs and hasn’t yet announced new exam dates. Certifications that were due to expire in 2026 were extended to December 31, 2027. IAFN’s education resources moved to the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA).
Nurses preparing for certification can review core concepts with our SANE practice quiz. Nursing students should also see the NCLEX exam guide.
USA SANE Exam: Quick Facts
- Support line
- 800-656-HOPE (4673), 24/7
- Cost to survivor
- $0 for the forensic exam
- Police report required?
- No
- Evidence window
- Often up to ~120 hours (varies by state)
- Who performs it
- A SANE or trained forensic examiner
- Your rights
- Consent to each step; an advocate can be present
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Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Coverage, prices and requirements change and vary by provider and location. Confirm details with your provider, insurer or the agency listed in the sources. Read our editorial policy.