Are you a nurse assistant considering transferring your CNA license to a different state? Moving can be an exciting yet overwhelming process. Transferring your CNA certification can be a simple process.  With this blog post, we'll give you all the information necessary so that you can successfully transition your CNA license from one state to another.

Each state has its own requirements for licensing healthcare providers, including  CNAs and nurses. You must go through a reciprocity process to move your license from one state to another.

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What is Reciprocity?

When transferring your license to a new state, the state that currently holds your license will need to “endorse” your credentials and skills to ensure they meet the new state's criteria. To endorse means to approve or support your licensing.

Reciprocity, also known as an endorsement, is a state-to-state agreement allowing you to transfer your CNA license without going through the entire certification process in the new state. It is a straightforward procedure where you apply for a transfer, pay the fee, and send the necessary paperwork to the nurse aide registry of both states.

With four simple steps, we've made it easier than ever to get the job done! Follow our guide, and you'll be on your way to success.

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Step 1: Check Requirements and fill out the request form 

To get your nurse aide career underway in a new state, first, be sure to check the Nurse Aide Registry and submit any required documents for reciprocity.

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Below is the list of all the states and their respective Nurse Aide Registry:

• Alabama

• Alaska

• Arizona

• Arkansas

• California

• Colorado

• Connecticut

• Delaware

• District of Columbia

• Florida

• Georgia

• Hawaii

• Idaho

• Illinois

• Indiana

• Iowa

• Kansas

• Kentucky

• Louisiana

• Maine

• Maryland

• Massachusetts

• Michigan

• Minnesota

• Mississippi

• Missouri

• Montana

• Nebraska

• Nevada

• New Hampshire

• New Jersey

• New Mexico

• New York

• North Carolina

• North Dakota

• Ohio

• Oregon

• Pennsylvania

• Rhode Island

• South Carolina

• South Dakota

• Tennessee

• Texas

• Utah

• Vermont

• Virginia

• Washington

• West Virginia

• Wisconsin

• Wyoming

Step 2: Submit all requirements and pay fees

Once you've done your due diligence and all the paperwork is in order, it's time to submit everything to your new state of residence. A background check must also take place to be approved for your application. Get ready to pay for this assessment and any fees related to transferring your license.

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The eligibility requirements for reciprocity vary depending on each states provider and typically include the following:

1. Social Security Card 

2. A copy of your out-of-state CNA certificate

3. Background Screening

4. Fingerprints 

5. Driver’s license

6. A recent pay stub as proof of employment

Step 3: Check to see if your license is now active.

The process can take four to six weeks, depending on which state you want to transfer your license too. Some states require you to transfer your license before you start working, and others allow you to get started before it's official!

Step 4: Review the Rules and Regulations

Once your license is officially transferred and registered in a new state, the last piece of the puzzle will be to familiarize yourself with all its laws and regulations. Taking that extra step ensures you can continue providing quality care for those who need it!

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What if My State Doesn’t Have Reciprocity? 

You must retake the CNA training and licensing requirements if your new state does not allow reciprocity or endorsement. Don't be concerned if this happens to you! Dreambound can help you find CNA schools near you.

Consider Dreambound as a valuable resource if you're thinking about getting started in this field. We've written many guides to help you:

• Become a CNA in 3 easy steps
• CNA classes near me
• Become a CNA in High School
• STNA in Ohio
• CNA in Texas
• CNA in California
• CNA in Pennsylvania