Are you a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) with an adventurous spirit, seeking new horizons and career growth in different states? Understanding state-to-state CNA license reciprocity is crucial for your professional journey. This guide will walk you through the essential information about CNA reciprocity, highlighting states that offer free reciprocity and those with associated fees. Furthermore, we’ll explore how attending a Cna Travelers Convention can be an invaluable resource as you navigate your multi-state career.
Understanding CNA License Portability Across States
Each state’s Nurse Aide Registry sets its own standards and maintains a list of approved CNA programs. While many excellent free CNA certification courses provide foundational knowledge, moving to a new state might seem daunting in terms of license transfer. Fortunately, many states recognize CNA certifications from other states through a process called reciprocity. This means if you hold a valid certification in good standing, you might be able to work as a CNA in a new state without repeating a course or exam.
It’s important to note the distinction between CNAs and medication aides, as their roles and scopes of practice differ. You can learn more about these differences here.
What is CNA License Reciprocity?
CNA license reciprocity allows certified nursing assistants to transfer their existing certification from one state to another. In states with “free reciprocity,” this transfer occurs without additional testing or course requirements, streamlining the process for CNAs relocating for work or personal reasons.
Each state’s approved CNA programs follow curriculums designed to meet specific state regulations. If you’re aiming for a multi-state CNA license in effect, understanding the reciprocity policies of your target state is key. Attending a CNA travelers convention can provide direct access to experts and resources who can clarify these nuances and guide you through the process.
Reciprocity requirements vary significantly from state to state. Common elements include applications, registry listings, background checks, and sometimes, fees. Even among “free reciprocity” states, the specific procedures and prerequisites can differ. Thoroughly research the requirements of your desired state before making relocation plans.
To aid in your preparation, we’ve compiled lists categorizing states by their reciprocity policies: those offering free reciprocity and those that require application fees. This information, often discussed in detail at a CNA travelers convention, will help you plan your interstate career move effectively.
To further inform your decision about the best state for your CNA career, consider researching each state’s CNA-to-patient staffing ratios, a topic frequently addressed at CNA travelers conventions to help CNAs make informed career choices.
States Offering Free CNA License Reciprocity
For many destinations, validating your CNA credentials can be cost-free. These “free reciprocity states” simplify the process for CNAs moving across state lines.
Alabama
To transfer/FAQ) your certification to the Alabama Nurse Aide Registry, you’ll need an employment contract with a nursing home, hospice, community mental health center, hospital, or home health agency within Alabama. Alabama does not have a specific reciprocity form for registry entry.
Georgia
To enter the Georgia Nurse Aide Registry, you must complete the CNA reciprocity form and provide supporting documentation. A key requirement is proof of employment within the past two years under a registered nurse’s supervision.
Idaho
For Idaho reciprocity, you must have a job offer or residency in the state. Additional requirements for your application include:
- NATCEP course certificate or nursing school semester transcripts.
- Verification of active status and good standing from your current nurse aide registry.
- All documents must be submitted as PDFs; photos or screenshots are not accepted.
Iowa
CNAs seeking to transfer to the Iowa Nurse Aide Registry should apply online.
Kentucky
To work in Kentucky, create an account on the Kentucky Board of Nursing Nurse Portal and submit the State Registered Nurse Aide (SRNA) reciprocity application with supporting documents. Active status in your previous state is mandatory, and additional documentation may be requested.
Maine
In Maine, applications are made to the Registry of Certified Nursing Assistants and Direct Care Workers.
- Complete and submit the online application as a PDF.
- Provide a current photo ID matching the name on your application.
- Submit verification from all states where you hold or have held CNA certification.
Massachusetts
To apply for reciprocity in Massachusetts, you must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a current CNA certification in another state, in good standing.
- Not have previously obtained CNA certification in Massachusetts.
- Complete the reciprocity application form.
Minnesota
For CNAs moving to Minnesota, being listed on the state nursing assistant registry is a prerequisite for employment.
- Complete the interstate endorsement form thoroughly to avoid processing delays due to incomplete submissions.
- Submit the form electronically via email.
Missouri
In Missouri, CNAs certified in other states can apply for reciprocity, provided they meet these requirements:
- Upload documents verifying your out-of-state certification.
- Complete and submit the Reciprocity form along with verification documents.
Montana
To apply for interstate endorsement in Montana, follow these steps:
- Access the BOUNDS portal and create/activate your account.
- Complete the Interstate Endorsement application, including your current CNA number.
New Mexico
For New Mexico reciprocity, apply to the New Mexico Department of Health’s Division of Health Improvement, submitting:
- Completed CNA reciprocity form.
- Current CNA certification.
- Driver’s license or photo ID.
- Social Security card.
- Contact numbers.
- Mailing address.
North Dakota
In North Dakota, you must complete the Certified Nurse Aide application and request license verification from all states where you hold or have held a CNA license. Expect processing in 3-5 business days, and be prepared to provide personal history or background documentation if requested.
Ohio
For Ohio reciprocity, complete these steps:
- Fill out the Nurse Aide Request for Reciprocity form.
- Attach photocopies of your Social Security card and photo ID, ensuring name and birthday are clearly legible and correctly spelled.
Oklahoma
Reciprocity in Oklahoma is managed by the Oklahoma Nurse Aide and Nontechnical Services Worker Registry. The application process varies based on whether you’re applying for long-term care (LTC) or home health aide (HHA) positions. LTC applications are free, while HHA applications have a $15 fee.
Pennsylvania
If you possess an active CNA license in good standing from another state, you can apply for reciprocity with Pennsylvania by registering with the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry. Consult the application guide here for process details.
South Carolina
To work in South Carolina, apply to the South Carolina Nurse Aide Registry. Active listing on another state’s nurse aide registry is required. A quick application reference guide is available here.
South Dakota
For South Dakota, visit the South Dakota Board of Nursing website for the CNA reciprocity application.
- Print and have your current or former employer complete the employment verification form.
- Complete the online application form, following the provided instructions.
Virginia
If you have an active, good-standing certification from another state, apply for reciprocity in Virginia by completing the Nurse Aide application.
West Virginia
To transfer to West Virginia, register with the West Virginia Nurse Aide Registry by completing the Registration by Reciprocity application and providing all necessary information.
States with CNA License Reciprocity Application Fees
For these states, transferring your CNA certification involves paying an application fee as part of the reciprocity process.
Alaska
Complete the Certified Nurse Aide by Endorsement application. Alaska charges a $75 processing fee. Adhere to application instructions to ensure all required documentation is submitted.
Arizona
To apply for CNA endorsement in Arizona, a $50 fee is required. Follow the steps for the CNA Endorsement application carefully.
Arkansas
For Arkansas, pay a $25 processing fee and complete the Out of State AR Reciprocity Form 9110AR to register with the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry.
California
To apply for reciprocity in California, CNAs must complete the Certified Nurse Assistant Equivalency/Reciprocity application, meet all specified requirements, and undergo a background check with fingerprinting, costing $32.
Colorado
To transfer your certification to Colorado, you must pay a processing fee and fulfill all requirements listed on the Nurse Aide Endorsement Application Checklist.
Connecticut
In Connecticut, a $55 fee is required. CNAs must pay this fee, meet all prerequisites, and complete the online application to join the Connecticut Nurse’s Aide Registry. Your existing license must be active and in good standing.
Delaware
The reciprocity fee in Delaware is $30. Applicants must complete the Delaware Nurse Aide Application for Reciprocity and submit the required documentation.
Florida
In Florida, CNA applicants must submit fingerprints via Livescan services, among other documents. Fees for fingerprinting services vary.
Hawaii
Hawaii charges a $27 processing fee. You need a CNA certification in good standing and must meet all requirements in the Hawaii Nurse Aide Testing/Out of State/Reciprocity Application Form.
Indiana
To apply to the Indiana Nurse Aide registry via reciprocity, obtain the application from Ivy Tech and submit all required documents. Additionally, CNAs transferring to Indiana must pass a written exam.
Illinois
To transfer to Illinois, pay a $25 processing fee, ensure your current certification is active, and complete the Out-of-State Nurse Aide Application.
Kansas
In Kansas, candidates must take the KS Nurse Aide Test, pay a $20 application fee, and complete the Interstate Application Form.
Louisiana
In Louisiana, Prometric handles reciprocity applications. The application fee is $35. Follow route eight of the reciprocity procedure.
Maryland
For Maryland, meet all requirements on the Certified Nursing Assistant Certification Endorsement Checklist, pay required fees, and get fingerprinted.
Michigan
To seek reciprocity in Michigan, create a MILogin account, request access to MI-NATES, and pay a $40 fee via MI-NATES. Note that Michigan Nurse Aide Registry page lists states whose CNAs are eligible for reciprocity in Michigan.
Mississippi
In Mississippi, request the Reciprocity Application Form from the Mississippi National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP®) registry. The reciprocity fee is $26, with a potential retesting fee of $101 if applicable.
Nebraska
To transfer your CNA certification to Nebraska, provide all required documents, complete the NA Interstate Endorsement Application, and complete a one-hour in-service on abuse/neglect reporting before activation in the state.
Nevada
To apply for reciprocity in Nevada, complete the CNA Endorsement Form via the Nevada Nurse Portal. The processing fee is $50. See additional requirements for more details.
New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, complete the Universal Application for Endorsement and pay a $63 fee, along with providing all required documentation.
New Jersey
To apply for reciprocity in New Jersey, you must meet these requirements:
- Submit proof of current CNA certification.
- Have no criminal convictions.
- Choose between reciprocity based on Continuing Education Units or full-time employment. The full-time employment route may require passing New Jersey’s clinical skills and written exams.
New York
For New York, apply to the New York State Department of Health. CNA reciprocity is processed through Prometric; complete their forms and pay a $50 processing fee.
North Carolina
In North Carolina, to be listed on the CNA registry, you can apply for a training waiver if you completed a state-approved program elsewhere, or submit a Reciprocity Application.
Oregon
The reciprocity processing fee in Oregon is $60. Maintain a CNA certification in good standing, create an account in the OSBN Nursing Portal, and follow their instructions.
Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, a $35 processing fee applies. Complete the Nursing Assistant Endorsement Application and meet all specified requirements.
Tennessee
To request reciprocity with Tennessee, the Tennessee State Testing Agency processes Out of State Registry Reciprocity Forms for a $20 fee. Expect a one-week processing time after completing the form and meeting requirements.
Texas
To transfer your CNA certification to work in Texas, you will need the following:
- Undergo a criminal history check by the Texas Department of Public Safety Crime Records division (fees apply).
- Apply via TULIP (Texas Unified Licensure Information Portal) to request Nurse Aide Registry entry through reciprocity.
- If your current state’s certification lacks an expiration date, complete Form 5506-NAR (PDF).
Utah
Utah has a $50 reciprocity application fee. Fill out the form and provide all necessary documents.
Vermont
Complete an online application and criminal background check to transfer your CNA certification to Vermont. Submit all required documents and pay a $25 processing fee.
Washington
Washington charges a $25 processing fee. Out-of-state applicants must verify OBRA registry placement and pass a competency exam, in addition to meeting all state-specific requirements.
Wisconsin
To transfer to Wisconsin and be placed on the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry, complete the WI CNA Reciprocity Form 9110Wi, submit all required documents, and pay a $25 application fee.
Wyoming
In Wyoming, CNAs applying for certification by endorsement must pay a $120 fee and provide all necessary documentation.
Maximizing Your CNA Career: The Value of CNA Travelers Conventions
For CNAs considering interstate work, a CNA travelers convention offers a unique platform to network, learn, and advance your career. These conventions are excellent resources to:
- Gain In-depth Reciprocity Knowledge: Directly engage with experts on state-specific reciprocity requirements, application processes, and potential challenges. Sessions at a CNA travelers convention often feature state registry representatives or professionals specializing in license portability.
- Explore Travel Opportunities: Discover agencies and facilities that hire traveling CNAs. Many conventions host recruiters and employers seeking CNAs for short-term and long-term assignments across the country.
- Network with Peers: Connect with other CNAs who have navigated reciprocity and interstate travel. Share experiences, tips, and build a supportive professional network.
- Career Advancement Workshops: Attend workshops focused on career growth, including advanced certifications, specialized CNA roles, and strategies for maximizing your earning potential as a traveling CNA.
- Discover PRN Job Options: Learn about the flexibility and higher pay rates associated with PRN (as-needed) CNA positions, which are often ideal for those exploring different states or seeking work-life balance.
Attending a CNA travelers convention can significantly demystify the process of interstate CNA work and provide you with the tools and connections needed for a successful and rewarding career journey.
Finding PRN CNA Jobs Near You
Now that you’re informed about state CNA license reciprocity and the benefits of a CNA travelers convention, you might be looking for flexible work options. Consider exploring PRN CNA jobs near you. Nursa is an open healthcare marketplace connecting clinicians directly with healthcare facilities nationwide, simplifying your PRN job search.
PRN work empowers you to choose your work locations and schedules. Often, PRN shifts offer competitive hourly rates compared to standard facility staff positions, enabling you to achieve personal and financial goals. Sign up with Nursa today and take control of your CNA career.
Sources:
Alabama Department of Public Health Nurse Aide Registry.
Georgia Medical Care Foundation.
Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.
Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals.
Kentucky Board of Nursing.
Maine Department of Health and Human Services.
Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
Minnesota Department of Health.
Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services.
Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.
New Mexico Department of Health.
North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services.
Ohio Department of Health.
Oklahoma State Department of Health.
Credentia Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry.
Credentia South Carolina Nurse Aide Registry.
South Dakota Board of Nursing.
Virginia Department of Health Professions.
West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources.
Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development.
Arizona State Board of Nursing.
HD Master Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry.
California Department of Public Health.
Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.
State of Connecticut Department of Public Health.
Delaware Department of Health and Social Services.
Florida Board of Nursing.
State of Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.
Indiana Department of Health.
Illinois Department of Public Health.
Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services.
Louisiana Department of Health.
Maryland Board of Nursing.
State of Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
Mississippi State Department of Health.
Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.
Nevada State Board of Nursing.
New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification.
State of New Jersey Department of Health.
New York State Department of Health.
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.
Oregon State Board of Nursing.
Rhode Island Department of Health.
HD Master Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry.
Texas Health and Human Services Commission.
Utah Nurse Aide Registry.
Vermont Office of Professional Regulation.
Washington State Department of Health.
Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
Wyoming State Board of Nursing.
