Your CNA license renewal process depends on your state

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license is a state credential, not a federal one, so the renewal steps, timing, and cost vary by where you work. Most states require you to renew every two years, though some use three-year cycles. You will need to contact your state's nursing board directly — not your employer, not a national organization — because they control the renewal rules for your specific state.

The basic renewal path involves paying a fee, submitting a form, and sometimes completing continuing education hours. Some states let you renew online; others require you to mail in documents. A few states have reciprocal agreements that let you transfer a CNA license from another state without starting over, but most do not.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state nursing board, not your employer or a national body, handles CNA renewal and sets the important date, cost, and requirements for your state.
  • Most states require renewal every two years and may ask for continuing education hours, a background check update, or proof of current CPR certification.
  • You can find your state nursing board's renewal portal or mailing address by searching "[your state] nursing board CNA renewal" or visiting the National Council of State Boards of Nursing website.
  • Renewing early or on time protects your job, since working with an expired license can result in termination and may prevent you from finding work elsewhere.

Finding your state nursing board and renewal important date

Start by identifying your state nursing board — the agency that issued your CNA license in the first place. Search online for "[your state name] nursing board" or "[your state name] board of nursing." The board's website will list your renewal important date, the fee amount, and what documents or forms you need.

Your renewal important date is usually printed on your CNA card itself. If you cannot find your card, the nursing board can tell you the expiration date when you contact them. Many states send renewal reminders by mail or email 60 to 90 days before expiration, but do not rely on receiving one — it is your responsibility to renew on time.

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) maintains a directory of all state nursing boards with links to their websites. This is a faster way to find the right board than searching state government sites.

What your state will ask you to submit

Most states require a renewal form, the renewal fee (typically $50 to $150, depending on the state), and proof that you meet any continuing requirements. Common requirements include current CPR certification, a certain number of continuing education hours, and sometimes a background check update or proof that you have worked as a CNA recently.

Some states ask for continuing education specific to nursing — topics like infection control, patient safety, or communication skills. The number of hours varies: some states require 12 hours every two years, others require 20 or more. Your employer may offer these courses for free, or you can take them through online providers. Keep receipts or certificates showing completion, because you will need to submit them with your renewal form.

A few states do not require continuing education at all — they only ask for the renewal fee and form. Check your state board's website to see what applies to you, because submitting the wrong documents or missing a requirement will delay your renewal.

Renewing online versus by mail

Many states now offer online renewal through their nursing board website. You create an account, fill out the form, upload documents (like your CPR card or continuing education certificates), pay the fee by credit card, and receive confirmation when ready. Online renewal typically takes a few minutes and is the fastest option.

If your state does not offer online renewal, you will mail a paper form and documents to the nursing board. Include a check or money order for the fee, copies of required documents, and your CNA card if the board asks for it. Mail it to the address listed on the board's website, not to a hospital or clinic. Processing by mail usually takes two to four weeks, so send it at least a month before your expiration date to avoid working with an expired license.

Some states allow you to renew by phone or in person at the nursing board office, though this is less common. Check your state board's website for all available methods.

What happens if your license expires

Working as a CNA with an expired license is illegal in every state. Your employer can terminate you when ready, and you cannot work in any healthcare setting until you renew. Some employers will hold your job for a short grace period while you complete renewal, but many will not — it depends on their policy and how short-staffed they are.

An expired license also makes it harder to find a new job. Employers run background checks that include license status, and an expired or lapsed license raises red flags. If you let your license lapse for more than a certain period (often one to two years, depending on the state), you may have to retake the CNA exam instead of straightforward renewing.

If you realize your license has expired, contact your state nursing board when ready to ask about late renewal. Some states allow you to renew up to a few months after expiration without penalty; others require you to retest. Do not continue working — inform your employer and ask about options.

Renewing a CNA license from another state

If you earned your CNA license in one state and now live or work in another, you have two options: reciprocal transfer or retesting. A handful of states have reciprocal agreements that let you transfer your license without retesting, but most do not. The receiving state's nursing board decides whether to accept your out-of-state license.

To learn about your license transfers, contact the nursing board in the state where you want to work. They will tell you whether reciprocity is available and what documents you need to submit (usually your original CNA certificate, proof of current CPR, and a fee). If reciprocity is not available, you will need to pass the CNA exam in the new state, which means studying and scheduling a test date.

Some CNAs choose to maintain licenses in multiple states if they work across state lines or plan to move. Each state charges its own renewal fee and may have different continuing education requirements, so factor that into your decision.

Keeping track of your renewal date

Mark your renewal important date on a calendar or phone reminder at least two months before expiration. If your state sends renewal reminders, do not assume they will arrive on time — treat them as a bonus, not your primary alert.

Keep your CNA card, CPR card, and any continuing education certificates in one place so you can find them quickly when renewal time comes. Take a photo of your CNA card and store it on your phone so you have the expiration date handy. If you change your address, update it with your state nursing board so renewal notices reach you.

Some employers track staff license expiration dates and send reminders, but this is not universal. Your state nursing board is responsible for your license, so you are responsible for renewing it on time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my CNA license if I have not worked as a CNA recently?

It depends on your state. Some states require proof that you worked within the past year or two; others do not. Check your state nursing board's renewal requirements. If you have not worked recently, contact the board before submitting your renewal to confirm you still meet the requirements.

What if I lost my CPR certification and my CNA renewal is due soon?

Renew your CPR certification when ready — most states require current CPR as part of CNA renewal. You can take a CPR course through the Red Cross, American Heart Association, or many hospitals and community colleges. Once you have the new certificate, submit it with your CNA renewal form.

How much does CNA renewal cost?

Renewal fees vary by state, typically ranging from $50 to $150. Some states charge more if you renew late. Check your state nursing board's website for the exact fee, and confirm whether they accept credit card, check, or money order.

Can I renew my CNA license if I am working out of state temporarily?

Yes. You renew through your home state's nursing board regardless of where you are working. Contact your state board to confirm the renewal process and whether you can submit documents by mail or online while you are away.

What if I submitted my renewal but have not heard back?

Contact your state nursing board directly. If you renewed online, you should have received when ready confirmation. If you mailed documents, call the board to confirm they received your process and ask how long processing typically takes. Do not assume your renewal went through without confirmation.