Are you seeking the most up-to-date information on reciprocity for certified nursing assistants?
If you’re planning to move to a new state, you may not have to retake a course or exam. Some states recognize CNA certificates from other states if nursing assistants meet certain standard requirements.
Discover which states offer free CNA reciprocity, which don’t, and what you need to meet the requirements for your chosen state.
What does free reciprocity mean?
Free reciprocity means that certified nursing assistants can move to different states and continue practicing without retaking certification tests or completing additional courses.
Each state maintains a list of approved CNA programs with curricula that are designed to align with the state’s statutes and regulations.
Are you wondering how to get a multi-state CNA license?
Unfortunately, this does not exist, so you should check the reciprocity regulations of the state where you want to work.
CNA registry applications through reciprocity or endorsement often require background checks, which may incur different fees. Even among states with free reciprocity, the required steps and conditions vary.
See also: CNA-to-patient staffing ratios by state guide
A quick overview of reciprocity fees by state
Fees for nurse aide reciprocity vary from one state to another. Here is a quick overview of the different state fees and which places offer free reciprocity. Read on for more detailed information for each state.
*There are 2 pathways for CNA reciprocity in North Carolina. The first pathway—available for non-residents—is free.
Free reciprocity states for CNA licenses
The following list shows the states with free reciprocity and is intended for informational purposes only. Requirements may vary; therefore, always check directly with the appropriate state institution.
Depending on the destination, validating your credentials in another state can be fee-free.
Alabama
To transfer your certification to the Alabama Nurse Aide Registry and practice in this state, you must already have a contract to work in a nursing home, hospice, community mental health center, hospital, or home health agency. Alabama doesn’t have a reciprocity form for entering the CNA registry.
Processing time: Official data not available
Georgia
To enter the Georgia Nurse Aide Registry, complete the CNA reciprocity form and submit the required supporting documents. The application requires you to show proof of employment under the supervision of a registered nurse within the previous 2 years.
Processing time: Official data not available
Idaho
For Idaho to grant reciprocity, you must have a job offer or be a resident of the state. Moreover, there are some additional requirements you must submit with your reciprocity application:
- Submit your NATCEP course certificate or transcripts of completion of 1 semester in nursing school.
- Submit a printed verification from your nurse aide registry stating that you have an active status and have no negative findings.
- All documents must be in PDF format. Photos or screenshots are not acceptable.
Processing time: Official data not available
Iowa
A certified nursing assistant who wants to transfer to the Iowa Nurse Aide Registry must apply online.
Processing time: Usually takes at least 2 weeks
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 and supporting documentation; additional documentation may be requested. Furthermore, you must have an active status in the state where you practiced previously.
Processing time: Official data not available
Maine
In Maine, you must apply to the Registry of Certified Nursing Assistants and Direct Care Workers.
- Complete the online application and send a PDF version.
- Send your current photo ID. Your name on the application must match the name on your government ID.
- Send verification from the states where you hold or have held a CNA certification.
Processing time: Typically takes from 2 to 4 weeks
Massachusetts
In order to apply for reciprocity in Massachusetts, you will need to meet the following requirements:
- You must have a certification in another state and be in good standing.
- You cannot have obtained certification previously in Massachusetts.
- You must complete the reciprocity application.
Processing time: Official data not available
Minnesota
If you are transferring to Minnesota, you need to be on the state nursing assistant registry before you can work.
- Complete the interstate endorsement form. Be sure to complete all the requirements, as a rejection due to an incomplete form can delay your process.
- Submit the form by email.
Processing time: Official data not available
Missouri
In Missouri, CNAs who have obtained certification in another state can apply for free reciprocity. They must meet the following requirements:
- Upload your documents to verify your certification in another state.
- Complete the reciprocity form and submit documents for verification.
Processing time: Official data not available
Montana
To apply for the interstate endorsement in Montana, you need to follow these steps:
- Go to the BOUNDS portal, then create and activate your account.
- Complete the Interstate Endorsement application and enter your current CNA number.
Processing time: Official data not available
New Mexico
For New Mexico reciprocity, you need to apply to the state’s Health Care Authority (HCA) and submit the required documentation:
- Complete the CNA reciprocity form.
- Provide an image of your valid US government-issued photo identification with your date of birth.
- Upload an image of your Social Security card.
- Alabama applicants, provide an image of your employment verification that shows you worked as a nurse aide under the direction of a licensed nurse (RN/LPN) during the previous 2 years.
Processing time: Official data not available
North Dakota
In North Dakota, you need to complete the Certified Nurse Aide application and request verification from the registries of all the states where you hold or have held a CNA license. Documentation regarding personal history and/or background may be requested. Processing time: Usually takes 3–5 business days
Ohio
For reciprocity in Ohio, complete the following steps:
- Complete the Nurse Aide Request for Reciprocity form.
- Attach a photocopy of your Social Security card and picture ID showing the correct spelling of your name and birthday.
Processing time: Official data not available
Oklahoma
You can apply for reciprocity in Oklahoma with the Oklahoma Nurse Aide and Nontechnical Services Worker Registry. The application differs depending on whether you apply to work in long-term care (LTC) or as a home health aide (HHA). Although there is no fee to work in an LTC, there is a $15 fee for HHA applications.
Processing time: Official data not available
Pennsylvania
If you have an active CNA license in good standing from another state, you can apply for reciprocity with Pennsylvania by enrolling in the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry. For guidance on the application process, check the reference guide here.
Processing time: Official data not available
South Carolina
To work in South Carolina, apply to the South Carolina Nurse Aide Registry. You need to be currently listed as active in another state’s nurse aide registry. For a quick reference on the application process, click here.
Processing time: Official data not available
South Dakota
In South Dakota, go to the South Dakota Board of Nursing website for the CNA reciprocity application.
- You’ll need to print the employment verification form and have your current or previous employer fill it out.
- Complete the online application form and follow the instructions.
Processing time: This data is not available. However, it takes 5–7 business days for the application status to be updated on the verification website.
Texas
To transfer your CNA certification to work as a nurse aide in Texas, you need to do the following:
- Complete a criminal history check at the Texas Department of Public Safety Crime Records division (a fee is charged for the check).
- Submit an application through TULIP (Texas Unified Licensure Information Portal) and complete the request to enter the Nurse Aide Registry through reciprocity.
- If the state of your CNA certification doesn’t provide an expiration date, you must complete Form 5506-NAR (PDF).
Processing time: Official data not available
Virginia
If you have an active certification in good standing from another state, you can apply for reciprocity in Virginia by filling out the Nurse Aide application.
Processing time: Typically takes 30–45 business days to complete
West Virginia
To transfer to work in West Virginia, enroll in the West Virginia Nurse Aide Registry by completing the Registration by Reciprocity application with the required information.
Processing time: Official data not available
States with application fees
If you want to transfer your CNA certification to one of the following states, you must pay a fee to complete your reciprocity process. The list is provided for informational purposes only; always verify with the relevant state institution.
Alaska
Complete the application for Certified Nurse Aide by Endorsement. The processing fee in Alaska is $275. Follow the application instructions to ensure you have all the documentation required by this state.
Processing time: Official data not available
Arizona
To apply for endorsement as a CNA in Arizona, you must pay a fee of $50 and follow the required steps for the CNA Endorsement application.
Processing time: Official data not available
Arkansas
For Arkansas, you must pay a processing fee of $25 and complete the Out of State AR Reciprocity Form 9110AR in order to enroll in the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry.
Processing time: Official data not available
California
To apply for reciprocity in California, CNAs must complete the Certified Nurse Assistant Equivalency/Reciprocity application, meet all the requirements detailed here, and submit fingerprints for a background check, which costs $32.
- Submit electronic fingerprints or fingerprint cards.
- Present a copy of your out-of-state CNA certificate.
- Present proof that you have provided nursing services under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional.
Additional considerations:
- If you received your initial out-of-state CNA certificate within the last 2 years, you don’t need to submit proof of work.
- Staffing agencies are not considered an acceptable work setting for reciprocity purposes.
- If you were paid through a staffing agency but work in a facility, you need a letter from the facility stating that you worked under the supervision of a licensed health professional.
Processing time: Generally takes 30–45 days, depending on the type of submission
Colorado
To transfer your certification to Colorado, you must pay a processing fee and meet all the requirements on the Nurse Aide Endorsement Application Checklist.
Processing time: Official data not available
Connecticut
In Connecticut, CNAs must pay a $55 fee, submit required documentation, and fill out the online application to be placed on the Connecticut Nurse Aide Registry. Like in other states, your license must be active and in good standing.
Processing time: Official data not available
Delaware
The reciprocity fee in Delaware is $30. Candidates must complete the Delaware Nurse Aide Application for Reciprocity and present the required documentation.
Processing time: Typically 30 days
Florida
In Florida, CNA applicants are required to submit fingerprints through LiveScan, along with other documentation. Fees for these procedures vary.
Processing time: Official data not available
Hawaii
Hawaii charges a $25 processing fee. You need to have a CNA certification in good standing and complete all the requirements in the Hawaii Nurse Aide Testing/Out of State/Reciprocity Application Form.
The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) decides if you are added directly to the Hawaii NA Registry or if you are required to take the Competency Exam.
Processing time: Generally takes 45–60 business days
Indiana
To apply to the Indiana Nurse Aide registry through reciprocity, a CNA must obtain the application from Ivy Tech and submit all the required documents. As of September 2025, no testing is required. However, applicants must still pay a $65 processing fee.
Processing time: Official data not available
Illinois
To transfer your certification to Illinois, you must pay a $25 processing fee, be active in the state registry where you were practicing, and fill out the Out-of-State Nurse Aide Application.
Processing time: Official data not available
Kansas
In Kansas, candidates must take the KS Nurse Aide Test, pay a $20 application fee, and fill out the Interstate Application Form.
Processing time: Official data not available
Louisiana
In Louisiana, Prometric manages the reciprocity applications. The application fee is $35. You must follow route 8 of the reciprocity procedure.
Processing time: Official data not available
Maryland
For Maryland, you must meet all the requirements from the Certified Nursing Assistant Certification Endorsement Checklist, pay a $20 endorsement fee, and have your fingerprints taken.
Processing time: Official data not available
Michigan
To request reciprocity in Michigan, you must create a MILogin account, request access to MI-NATES, and pay a $40 fee. CNAs from some states can’t apply in Michigan through reciprocity. The list of approved states is available on the Michigan Nurse Aide Registry page.
Processing time: Official data not available
Mississippi
In Mississippi, you must have an active certification in good standing, have worked 8 hours in a hospital, nursing home, or hospice, and upload a paycheck or W2 showing work within the past 24 months. The reciprocity fee is $25.
Processing time: Official data not available
Nebraska
To transfer your CNA certification to Nebraska, you must provide all the required documents, fill out the NA Interstate Endorsement Application, and complete a 1-hour in-service training on reporting abuse or neglect before you become active in this state.
Processing time: Typically takes 30 days after submitting the application
Nevada
To apply for reciprocity in Nevada, you must complete the CNA Endorsement Form through the Nevada Nurse Portal. The processing fee is $50. Find other requirements here.
Processing time: Official data not available
New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, you can see the LNA License by endorsement checklist for requirements, and you must pay a fee of $66. You can find all the required documentation here.
Processing time: Official data not available
New Jersey
To apply for reciprocity in New Jersey, you must pay a $30 fee and meet the following requirements:
- You must submit documentation of your current CNA certification.
- You must not have criminal conviction records.
- You must choose 1 of 2 routes to reciprocity: continuing education units or full-time employment. The route to reciprocity based on full-time employment will require you to pass the New Jersey clinical skills and written exams.
Processing time: Official data not available
New York
For New York, apply to the New York State Department of Health. CNA reciprocity is processed through Prometric; fill out the forms and pay a $50 processing fee.
Processing time: Official data not available
North Carolina
In North Carolina, to be listed on the CNA registry, you can apply for a training waiver by completing a state-approved nurse aide training program in another state or submitting a Reciprocity Application.
As of October 2025, there are two pathways to apply for CNA reciprocity. The first pathway applies to all candidates from any state, while the second pathway applies to candidates from Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, or West Virginia who were not approved through the first pathway and are residents of North Carolina.
Each pathway has different requirements; make sure you have everything you need before starting the application.
Note: The second pathway for CNA reciprocity is not free, as it requires payment of all applicable fees, including credential verification and background checks.
Processing time: Up to 10 business days
Oregon
The reciprocity processing fee in Oregon is $60. Like in other states, you must have CNA certification in good standing, create an account in the OSBN Nursing Portal, and follow the instructions.
Processing time: Official data not available
Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, there is a $35 processing fee. You must complete the Nursing Assistant Endorsement Application and meet all the requirements.
Processing time: Typically takes a minimum of 8 weeks
Tennessee
To request reciprocity with Tennessee, the Tennessee State Testing Agency processes Out of State Registry Reciprocity Forms for a $20 fee.
Processing time: Typically takes 1 week after all requirements are delivered
Utah
Utah charges a reciprocity application fee of $50. You also must fill out the form and provide the required documents.
Processing time: Usually takes 7–10 business days
Vermont
Complete an online application and criminal background check to transfer your CNA certification to Vermont. Please provide all required documents and pay the processing fee.
Processing time: Typically takes 5 business days
Washington
Washington charges a $85 processing fee for an application for certification, but doesn’t clarify whether there is a cost for the endorsement process. Applicants from other states can follow the checklist to apply on paper or follow the Washington State Department of Health’s instructions to apply online.
Processing time: Official data not available
Wisconsin
To transfer to Wisconsin and be placed on the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry, complete the WI CNA Reciprocity Form 9110Wi, submit all the required documents, and pay a $25 application fee.
Processing time: Typically takes 10 business days from the reception of your documents
Wyoming
In Wyoming, CNAs applying for certification by endorsement must pay a $60 fee and submit all the necessary documents. You also need to fill out the verification form.
Processing time: Official data not available
Discover a fast way to find PRN CNA jobs
Now that you know the requirements to apply for reciprocity in each state, you may want to know how to find PRN CNA jobs near you.
Nursa is an open healthcare marketplace that connects clinicians with facilities across the US, making it easier to find a PRN job.
Working as a PRN CNA, you can choose where and when to work. Furthermore, PRN shifts come with higher-than-average hourly rates, allowing you to pursue dreams that you may have put off for years.
Have you confirmed your license is still valid in your new state? Sign up with Nursa to pick up PRN shifts for CNAs and build your flexible schedule.
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