How to Change a CNA Certification
A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), assists patients and clients with their healthcare needs. They are under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). A CNA can only perform certain procedures, however. If a CNA moves to a new state, they must change their certification to reflect that before they can start accepting new work.
- Make sure that the state you are moving to offers CNA licenses. There are some states that do not offer these licenses, such as North Carolina. If you move to a state that does not offer this license, you will have to take a competency exam.
- Find out where the CNA regulating agency is in the state that you live in. Obtain an endorsement form from the state and submit it to the agency, so they can make sure you are a licensed nurse’s aide.
- Gather together the other documents you will need, such as your Social Security card, a copy of the certificate, documents showing you have completed a CNA training program, and a paper showing your past work, such as a W2 document. You will also need to fill out an application for your reciprocal license. The CNA regulating agency should be able to supply you with the forms that you need.
- Go to a fingerprinting service or a law enforcement agency and have your fingerprints taken. The state that you will be working in will use these fingerprints to have the FBI perform a background check on you.
- Submit your application and other documentation, as well as the application fee, to the address that is listed on the form. It can take a few months to hear back from the agency. You may get a license if you are approved, and your name will be added to the state’s nurse aide registry.