What Are the Free CNA Reciprocity States?
CNA reciprocity refers to the process by which certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in one state can transfer their certification to another state without having to retake the certification exam. Free CNA reciprocity states allow travel CNAs who have already completed training and obtained certification in one state to work as CNAs in another state without undergoing additional requirements.
This article is your essential guide to CNA reciprocity states. It’s important to keep in mind that the rules for CNA reciprocity differ by state. (For instance, Tennessee doesn’t accept reciprocity from Florida CNAs, requiring them to retest, while it does accept reciprocity from all other states.) Be sure to check with your state’s board of nursing before proceeding.
Discover which states offer free reciprocity, which charge fees, and which have no reciprocity. Also, keep in mind that CNAs are called state registered nurse aides (SRNAs) in Kentucky, state tested nurse aides (STNAs) in Ohio, and licensed nursing assistants (LNAs) in New Hampshire and Vermont.
Free CNA Reciprocity States: Key Details
To navigate the CNA reciprocity process successfully, make sure you have these essential pieces of information at your fingertips.
- Application process: You’ll need to apply for CNA reciprocity in each state you decide to work; this will likely include submitting an application and providing required documentation.
- Eligibility criteria: Each state has its own criteria for CNA reciprocity, including minimum training hours, active certification status, and clean disciplinary records.
- Verification requirements: Some states may require verification of current certification and/or employment history from your home state as part of the reciprocity process.
- License renewal: Once the reciprocity is granted, understanding the license renewal process in your new state is crucial, including renewal fees, continuing education requirements, and timelines.
- Additional requirements: Certain states may have additional requirements, such as completing a criminal background check. While submitting a CNA reciprocity form can be free, there may be additional fees for these requirements.
CNA Reciprocity States
When it comes to CNA reciprocity, states fall into three categories: free reciprocity, fee for transfer, and those with additional requirements, like completing an exam. Understanding these distinctions will help you navigate the process of transferring your certification more effectively.
Note that the state links in the following sections are for convenience, but for the most accurate and current information, please refer to your state board of nursing or state department of health.
1. Free CNA Reciprocity States
Navigating the process of transferring CNA certification between states can be complex, but knowing which states offer free reciprocity can simplify this transition. Below is a comprehensive list of states that provide free CNA reciprocity.
Alabama
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia and wish to receive Alabama CNA reciprocity, you need to apply for and get a job at a nursing home in Alabama. Your present employer then needs to contact the AL state agency and request that your name be placed on the Alabama Nurse Aide Registry.
Florida
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia and are listed on that area’s CNA registry in good standing, you must submit to a background screening for Florida CNA reciprocity.
Georgia
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may fill out an application for Georgia CNA reciprocity.
Idaho
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may fill out an application for Idaho CNA reciprocity.
Iowa
If you are an out-of-state direct care worker, you may fill out an application for Iowa CNA reciprocity.
Kentucky
If you are an out-of-state nursing assistant and wish to join the State Registered Nursing Aide (SRNA) registry in Kentucky, you must create an account the state’s Board of Nursing Nurse Portal and then submit a SRNA reciprocity application.
Maine
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may submit an application and required documentation for Maine CNA reciprocity.
Massachusetts
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state that is in good standing, you may Massachusetts CNA reciprocity form 9110.
Minnesota
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state that is in good standing, you may fill out the Interstate Endorsement Forms for Minnesota CNA reciprocity.
Missouri
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may submit an application and required documentation for Missouri CNA reciprocity.
Montana
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may submit an application for CNA Interstate Endorsement in Montana.
New Jersey
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may be eligible for New Jersey CNA reciprocity. Call 1-877-774-4243 to apply.
New Mexico
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may submit an application form and required documents for New Mexico CNA reciprocity
North Dakota
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may submit an application form and required documents for North Dakota CNA reciprocity.
Ohio
You may fill out an application form requesting Ohio nurse aide reciprocity.
Oklahoma
The process of applying for Oklahoma CNA reciprocity differs depending on whether you are applying for long-term care jobs (PDF) or home health care jobs (digital).
Pennsylvania
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may apply for Pennsylvania CNA reciprocity by creating a CNA365 account and applying to enroll on the PA Nurse Aide Registry.
South Carolina
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may apply for South Carolina CNA reciprocity by creating a CNA365 account and applying to enroll on the SC Nurse Aide Registry.
South Dakota
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may fill out an Interstate Endorsement application for South Dakota CNA reciprocity.
Texas
To request to be added to the Texas Nurse Aide Registry, you may fill out form 5505-NAR requesting Texas CNA reciprocity.
Virginia
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may fill out a application for Virginia CNA reciprocity.
West Virginia
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may fill out a application for West Virginia CNA reciprocity.
2. CNA Reciprocity for an Application Fee
Some states have reciprocity with a fee attached, requiring CNAs to pay a certain amount to transfer their certification. Understanding these requirements can help you plan your budget while you transition your certification.
Arizona
The fee for out-of-state Arizona CNA reciprocity is $50 and you must have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing. Complete the steps listed on the Board of Nursing site to transfer your certification to Arizona.
Arkansas
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state that is in good standing, you may submit form 9110AR for Arkansas CNA reciprocity. There is a $25 processing fee.
Colorado
You can apply online for Colorado CNA reciprocity, which includes a processing fee. For more information, check with the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.
Connecticut
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can fill out an application to request Connecticut CNA reciprocity. The fee is $55.
Delaware
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may be eligible for Delaware CNA reciprocity. You must fill out out an application and submit required documentation. The processing fee is $30.
Indiana
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Indiana CNA reciprocity. You must fill out an application, submit required documentation, pay a fee, and take a written exam.
Illinois
To apply for Illinois CNA reciprocity, complete the Out of State Application and mail it to
Southern Illinois University (SIU) Nurse Aide Testing
1840 Innovation Drive, Suite 103
Carbondale, IL 62903
You must include a money order or cashier’s check for $25 with your application. No personal checks or cash will be accepted.
Kansas
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Kansas CNA reciprocity. You must fill out an application, submit required documentation, pay a $20 fee, and take a written exam.
Louisiana
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Louisiana CNA reciprocity. Submit the form found on Prometric, along with required documentation and a $35 processing fee.
Maryland
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Maryland CNA reciprocity. Submit your completed form, along with required documentation and a $20 processing fee.
Michigan
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Michigan CNA reciprocity. You must create an MILogin account and request access to MI-NATES. Then submit you application and pay the $20 fee.
Mississippi
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Mississippi CNA reciprocity by requesting an application from the Mississippi NNAAP Registry at 888-204-6249. The fee is $26.
Nevada
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Nevada CNA reciprocity. Submit your completed form via the Nevada Nursing Portal, along with required documentation and a $50 processing fee.
New Hampshire
For New Hampshire LNA reciprocity, fill out the universal application for endorsement, obtain a criminal background check, and pay the $63 processing fee.
New York
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for New York CNA reciprocity. You must fill out an application (select Route 2 for reciprocity), submit required documentation, and pay a $50 fee.
Oregon
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you may apply for Oregon CNA reciprocity. Create an account on the nursing portal. Select “apply for a license,” then “CNA endorsement application.” Fill in the required fields and documentation. The fee is $60.
Rhode Island
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Rhode Island CNA reciprocity. Submit the form, required documents, and pay the $35 processing fee.
Tennessee
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Tennessee CNA reciprocity. You must fill out the out-of-state registry reciprocity form and submit required documents, along with a $25 processing fee.
Utah
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Utah CNA reciprocity. You must fill out a form, provide required documents, and pay a $50 fee.
Vermont
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Vermont nurse assistant reciprocity. Create an account on the Office of Professional Regulation site. Choose “apply for a license” and select “licensed nursing assistant.” Then select “endorsement.” Complete the form and pay the $25 processing fee. You will also complete a background check and release form, and pay $13.25 for processing.
Wisconsin
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Wisconsin CNA reciprocity. To be added to the WI nurse registry, fill out an application, submit documentation, and pay a $25 fee.
Wyoming
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Wyoming CNA reciprocity. Create an account on the WY Board of Nursing portal. Click “apply for a license,” then “CNA endorsement application.” Submit the form, documentation, and required background check. The total fee is $120.
3. States With Additional Requirements
Some states may require applicants to meet additional criteria, like appearing in person or completing an exam, as part of the reciprocity process. Remember: CNA reciprocity rules can vary depending on the state you’re transferring your license from. Always check with your state’s credentialing authority for the most accurate information.
Alaska
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Alaska CNA reciprocity. In addition to completing an application and background check, you must also pass a competency exam. The fee is $75.
California
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for California CNA reciprocity. In addition to submitting an application and required documentation, you must also complete a background check, which costs $32.
Hawaii
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Hawaii CNA reciprocity. Select route 2 (out of state/reciprocity), complete the form, and pay the $27 processing fee.
Nebraska
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Nebraska CNA reciprocity. You must submit an application and required documentation, and you must complete a one-hour in-service on reporting abuse and neglect.
North Carolina
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for North Carolina CNA reciprocity. Fill out an application and provide documentation. You must also complete a state-approved nurse aide training and competency evaluation program.
Washington
If you have an active CNA certification in another U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia that is in good standing, you can apply for Washington CNA reciprocity. You must complete Part 1 of the Out-of-State Credential Verification form and have your current employer fill out Part 2. Your current employer must return the form to the Washington State Department of Health. You must also clear a criminal history check. The fee is $25.
Benefits of Free CNA Reciprocity States
The benefits for nurses include:
- Cost savings: You can transfer your certification to another state without incurring additional fees, reducing the financial burdens associated with relocation to a new state.
- Seamless transition: You have increased flexibility to explore job opportunities in different states.
- Reduced administrative burden: You can avoid the administrative hassle of payment processing and paperwork associated with endorsing your certificate.
The benefits for facilities and states include:
- Improved access to healthcare: Free reciprocity promotes better access to healthcare services by ensuring a steady supply of qualified professionals across different regions.
- Expanded talent pool: Facilities have access to a broader talent pool of qualified CNAs, enabling them to recruit skilled professionals from other states more easily.
- Faster staffing solutions: Facilities can expedite the hiring of CNAs to fill staffing gaps more quickly, promoting workforce mobility and addressing staffing shortages in underserved areas.
What Is a Typical Salary for CNAs?
In the U.S., the average CNA salary is $39,610 per year. Your income can vary depending on your education, certifications, years of experience, and the state where you work. The states with the highest salaries are:
Free CNA Reciprocity States: FAQs
Are there any additional fees required in free reciprocity states for a CNA license?
While many free reciprocity states do not require additional fees for transferring CNA certification, it’s important to note that some states may have supplementary charges. For example, in Florida, while the application process is free, applicants are required to pay a fee for a background check as part of the reciprocity process.
Can I transfer my CNA certification to multiple free reciprocity states simultaneously?
Yes, in most cases, you can transfer your CNA certification to multiple free reciprocity states at the same time. However, it’s essential to verify the specific requirements of each state to ensure compliance with their regulations.
Will my CNA certification be valid indefinitely in a free reciprocity state, or do I need to renew it periodically?
In free reciprocity states, CNA certification typically needs to be renewed. Certifications are not usually valid indefinitely, so it’s important to check the renewal process and timeline for the specific state where certification is held.
How long does it take to transfer a CNA certification to another state?
Typically, the process can take a few weeks to a couple of months. The time to transfer a CNA certification to another state varies depending on factors such as the state’s processing times, the completeness of your application, and whether there are any additional requirements.
Can I obtain CNA reciprocity online?
Rules differ widely when it comes to free reciprocity states for CNA license. Online applications are available in certain states, however other states, like California, require you to appear in person in order to obtain your fingerprints.
Is there a compact license for CNAs?
No, there is currently no compact license specifically for CNAs. Getting licensed in compact states is currently available for registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs), allowing them to practice in multiple states under one multistate license. CNAs must still obtain certification in each state where they wish to practice.
Ready to Build a Fulfilling CNA Career?
Now that you know about free CNA reciprocity states, it’s time to start building the career you desire. Check out the latest CNA jobs in the specialty, facility, and location you’re looking for.