CNA License in Illinois

How to Get a CNA License in Illinois

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification process in Illinois is overseen by IDPH and administered through Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC). Follow these steps to earn your CNA license and be listed on the state registry.

Step 1: Complete a State-Approved Training Program

Enroll in an IDPH-approved Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program (BNATP). Each program must include at least 120 hours of instruction:

• 80 hours of classroom learning
• 40 hours of supervised clinical practice

You may also qualify through RN or LPN coursework, U.S. military health care training, foreign nursing education with verified transcripts, or out-of-state CNA certification that meets federal standards.

Step 2: Complete the Background Check

All applicants must undergo a fingerprint-based criminal background check under the Health Care Worker Background Check Act. If the results show a disqualifying conviction, you must obtain a Health Care Worker Waiver from IDPH to remain eligible for CNA employment.

Step 3: Apply for the Illinois Competency Exam

After training, register for the Illinois Written Competency Exam through Illinois Nurse Aide Testing (SIUC). The exam includes 85 multiple-choice questions covering infection control, safety, resident care, and patient rights.

You may attempt the exam up to three times. If unsuccessful after three attempts, you must complete another approved training program before retesting.

Step 4: Get Listed on the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry

After passing the exam, SIUC reports your results to IDPH. Your name will then be added to the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry (HCWR). Employers are legally required to verify CNA eligibility through the registry before hiring.

State-Approved CNA Programs in Illinois

The following CNA training programs are approved by IDPH. Consider tuition, location, schedule, clinical sites, and job placement support when selecting a program.

1. College of DuPage

   425 Fawell Blvd, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
   (630) 942-2800

2. College of Lake County

   19351 W Washington St, Grayslake, IL 60030
   (847) 543-2000

3. Elgin Community College

   1700 Spartan Dr, Elgin, IL 60123
   (847) 697-1000

4. Harper College

   1200 W Algonquin Rd, Palatine, IL 60067
   (847) 925-6000

5. Illinois Central College

   1 College Dr, East Peoria, IL 61611
   (309) 322-0634

6. Joliet Junior College

   1215 Houbolt Rd, Joliet, IL 60431
   (815) 729-9020

7. Malcolm X College

   1900 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60612
   (312) 850-7000

8. Moraine Valley Community College

   9000 College Pkwy, Palos Hills, IL 60465
   (708) 974-4300

9. Oakton Community College

   1600 E Golf Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016
   (847) 635-1600

10. Parkland College

    2400 W Bradley Ave, Champaign, IL 61821
    (217) 351-2200

11. SWIC Southwestern Illinois College

    2500 Carlyle Ave, Belleville, IL 62221
    (618) 235-2700

12. Waubonsee Community College

    IL-47 & Waubonsee Dr, Sugar Grove, IL 60554
    (630) 466-7900

How to Verify a CNA License in Illinois

The Illinois Health Care Worker Registry (HCWR), maintained by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), is the official system for confirming CNA training, testing, and work eligibility. Employers must use the registry to verify certification before hiring.

Step 1: Access the Registry

Go to the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry Search.

Step 2: Search by Name

• Enter the worker’s last name (required)
• Add the first name if available
• Click Search to view results and select the correct record

Step 3: Review the Registry Record

The record shows:

• Work Eligibility: Must show Eligible for CNA employment
• Administrative Findings: Records of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation
• Background Check: IDPH determination of the Illinois State Police fingerprint check
• Employment Verification: Work history reported by employers
• Certification Program Information: Training completion date and exam status

Step 4: Validate for Employment

Employers must confirm eligibility, training, and work history before hiring. Use the Validate SSN option to verify identity.

How to Renew a CNA License in Illinois

Illinois does not require renewal applications. Your certification stays active on the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry (HCWR) if you meet work and reporting requirements. No renewal fee is required.

Work Requirement

You must complete at least one paid 8-hour shift providing nursing or nursing-related services under the supervision of a licensed nurse every 24 months to remain active.

Employer Reporting

Employers must update the HCWR within 30 days of each hire or separation and verify employment annually. Timely reporting ensures compliance and keeps your record active.

Inactive Status

If you do not perform qualifying work for 24 consecutive months, your record will be marked Inactive. You cannot work until you complete recertification.

Check Your Status

You can confirm your certification through the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry.

How to Reinstate a CNA License in Illinois

If you have not worked as a CNA for more than 24 consecutive months, your certification will show as Inactive on the HCWR. To regain active status, you must complete recertification through Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC).

Step 1: Submit the Recertification Request

Complete the online recertification form. SIUC will review your record and notify you by email if you are eligible. For help, call (877) 262-9259.

Step 2: Register and Schedule the Exam

Once approved, purchase and schedule your exam through SIUC. Testing is offered statewide.

Step 3: Pass the Competency Exams

• Knowledge Exam: Written or oral
• Skills Exam: Performance of manual tasks

You may attempt the exam up to three times. If unsuccessful, you must complete a new BNATP before retesting.

Step 4: Verify Active Status

After passing, SIUC updates your record. Confirm active status through the HCWR.

How to Transfer a CNA License to Illinois

CNAs certified in another state may apply for Illinois certification through reciprocity. You cannot work until your record shows Active on the HCWR.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Hold a current, active CNA certification in another state
• Completed approved training and passed a competency exam
• No substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation
• No disqualifying convictions (unless granted a waiver)

Step 2: Complete the Reciprocity Application

Download and complete the Out-of-State CNA Application. Provide full and accurate details. Incomplete applications will be returned.

Step 3: Pay the Processing Fee

• $25 non-refundable fee
• Money order payable to Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC) or Nurse Aide Testing
• Cash and personal checks are not accepted

Step 4: Submit the Application Package

Step 5: Verify Your Listing

After processing, check the HCWR to confirm your status is Active before starting work.

Illinois Nurse Aide Registry

The Illinois Nurse Aide Registry, maintained by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) through the HCWR, is the official record of CNAs authorized to work in Illinois. It tracks training, employment, background checks, and administrative findings. Employers must use the registry to verify work eligibility, while CNAs use it to confirm status, update details, and monitor certification history.

Contact Information

• Agency: Illinois Department of Public Health – Health Care Worker Registry
• Division: Office of Health Care Regulation (OHCR)
• Address: 525 W. Jefferson St., Fourth Floor, Springfield, IL 62761
• Phone: (844) 789-3676
• Fax: (217) 524-0137
• Email: DPH.HCWR@illinois.gov
• Registry Search: Illinois Health Care Worker Registry

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work as a CNA while waiting for my exam results?

No. You must first pass the exam and be listed as Active on the HCWR. Employers must verify status before hiring.

Are testing accommodations available?

Yes. Submit a Testing Accommodations Form with supporting documentation before scheduling.

What should I bring on exam day?

Arrive at least 15 minutes early, wear clinical attire, and bring a valid government-issued photo ID. Personal items, electronics, food, and visitors are not allowed.

Can military-trained personnel apply for CNA certification?

Yes. Submit the Military Personnel Application with proof of training to SIUC.

Does foreign nurse training qualify?

Yes. Submit official transcripts with the Foreign Nurse Application. If approved, you may test without completing BNATP.

What if my employer does not update my work history?

Employers must enter hire and separation dates within 30 days and verify employment annually. If updates are missing, contact HR or call the HCWR at (844) 789-3676.

Do I need a Social Security Number (SSN)?

Yes. Illinois does not issue CNA license numbers. Your SSN is used to track certification records.

How do I update my name or address?

Send a written request to IDPH. For name changes, include legal documentation. Submit updates by mail, fax, or email to DPH.HCWR@illinois.gov. Include your full name, date of birth, and SSN.

Can I work as a CNA with a disqualifying conviction?

No, unless granted a Health Care Worker Waiver by IDPH. Waiver decisions are made case by case.

Key Takeaways

• Complete training: Finish a 120-hour BNATP (80 classroom + 40 clinical) approved by IDPH.
• Pass the exams: Successfully complete both the knowledge and skills tests administered by SIUC.
• Get certified: SIUC submits your results to IDPH for placement on the HCWR. Illinois does not issue license numbers or paper certificates.
• Stay active: Work at least one paid 8-hour shift in a qualifying facility every 24 months.
• No renewal: Illinois requires no forms or fees. Certification stays active if you meet work and employer reporting requirements.
• Transfer certification: Apply by reciprocity, complete the background check, and pay a $25 fee to SIUC.