Transferring a CNA license using reciprocity to another state generally does not require having to take a new course or passing a new CNA exam. Most states recognize reciprocity but may request a new background check as well as proof of identification. A few states also have additional requirements depending upon whether the professional will be employed within a nursing home, private home or hospital setting.
Contact the state registry where you currently are licensed to obtain the reciprocity application which must be filled in and sent in. To determine where to send the completed form, contact the state registry for the state you plan to move to as some require it come from the applicant and other’s directly from the licensing department. The contact information for each state can be found online and may be separate Certified Nursing Assistant registries or included within the nurse registry.
Additional items which will be needed when transferring a CNA license using reciprocity generally include proof of identification and employment. Send copies only of a photo ID such as a driver’s license and Social Security card when applying for the transfer. Proof of employment such as paystubs and a copy of the state license where you currently live and work will be necessary to prove you are current on licensing requirements. A filled in and signed form to allow the state to perform a background check is required as well. Some states may also want to have information showing the applicants education background. Sending copies of these items in with the application for reciprocity will speed up the process. Remember to only send copies and not the original forms as these may be lost or not returned.
Federal law requires that a CNA work during a two year period as well as continue education to retain their licensure. In the event a license has lapsed the applicant may have to retake training and pass a new CNA exam depending upon the length of time the license has outdated. Six months is allowed in most states without having to retake the course. Every state has their own laws pertaining to their licensing requirements such as the ability to test out of the training or provisions for additional training depending upon the place of employment.
Transferring a CNA license through reciprocity does require a full background check. Some misdemeanors as well as any felonies will be fully reviewed and may hinder the ability to receive a license in a new state. Any black marks from a previous employer will also put the applicant at risk of rejection. This is considered a professional license and due diligence on behalf of the applicant to honestly answer any questions which may arise is important.
The length of time to transfer a CNA license to a new state using reciprocity is generally two to three weeks. Some states will allow transferees or new employees to work up to four months before having their license. Phone the registrar in the new state to receive full information of what is required to begin the transfer in advance.
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