In Kentucky, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are known as State Registered Nurse Aides (SRNAs). To qualify, you must complete state-approved training, pass the competency exam, and be listed on the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry. The Kentucky Board of Nursing (KBN) manages registration, and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) administers exams through the TestMaster Universe (TMU) system. This guide explains how to obtain, verify, renew, or reinstate your SRNA registration—and to transfer an active credential from another state to Kentucky.
- How to Get Your SRNA Registration in Kentucky
- How to Verify Your SRNA Registration in Kentucky
- How to Renew Your SRNA Registration in Kentucky
- How to Reinstate Your SRNA Registration in Kentucky
- How to Transfer Your SRNA Registration to Kentucky
- Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry
- State-Approved SRNA Programs in Kentucky
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Key Takeaways
How to Get Your SRNA Registration in Kentucky
The SRNA registration process is regulated by KBN. Training programs are approved by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS). Exams are coordinated by KCTCS and delivered by D&S Diversified Technologies–Headmaster through TMU.
Step 1: Complete a State-Approved Training Program
Enroll in a CHFS-approved program that provides at least 75 total hours of instruction:
- 59 hours of classroom instruction
- 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
Training covers resident rights, infection control, safety, communication, and direct care skills. You must finish training before becoming exam-eligible.
Step 2: Instructor Submits Record to TMU
After completing training, your instructor will upload your record to the TMU portal. You will then receive an automated email with login details.
Step 3: Activate Your TMU Account
Log in, reset your password, and complete your demographic profile and registration questions. This must be completed before paying or scheduling exams.
Step 4: Pay the Exam Fees
If not covered by your program or employer, you must pay directly in TMU with a debit or credit card.
| Exam Component | Fee |
|---|---|
| Knowledge (Written) | $40 |
| Knowledge (Oral/Audio) | $55 |
| Skills Exam | $95 |
| Total (Written + Skills) | $135 |
| Total (Oral + Skills) | $150 |
All fees are non-refundable. Rescheduling is allowed up to three days before the exam.
Step 5: Schedule Your Exam
Once payment and registration are complete, log in to TMU to select a test site and available date. Both the Knowledge and Skills exams must be scheduled.
Step 6: Take the SRNA Competency Exam
The exam consists of two parts:
- Knowledge Exam – 70 multiple-choice questions, 90-minute limit; offered in written or oral/audio format
- Skills Exam – Five randomly assigned skills, including mandatory hand hygiene, 30-minute limit
You must pass both parts. Results post to TMU within 1–3 business days. KBN updates the registry within 30 days due to manual processing.
Step 7: Get Listed on the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry
After passing both exams, KCTCS submits your results to KBN. Your name is then added to the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry, the official verification of your SRNA registration required for employment.
Need help? For registration, scheduling, or technical support, contact KCTCS Nurse Aide Testing at (877) 528-2748 or NurseAideTesting@kctcs.edu.
How to Verify Your SRNA Registration in Kentucky
The KBN maintains the official SRNA Registry. Employers and aides use it to confirm certification status, number, and expiration date.
Step 1: Access the KBN License Lookup
Visit the KBN License Lookup.
Step 2: Select License Type
From the dropdown, choose SRNA Certification.
Step 3: Enter Search Criteria
- Name: Enter first and last name
- License Number: Enter your SRNA number (if available)
Step 4: Complete Security Check
Enter the CAPTCHA code to continue.
Step 5: Submit and Review Results
Click Search to display your record. Results include:
- Full name
- License type — SRNA Certification
- License number
- Status (must show Active for employment)
- Issue date
- Expiration date
Phone Verification: If you cannot verify online, call KBN at (502) 429-3300, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. ET.
How to Renew Your SRNA Registration in Kentucky
SRNA registration must be renewed every two years to stay active. Renewal is completed online through the Kentucky Nurse Portal.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
You must have completed at least 8 hours of paid nursing or nursing-related duties in the past 24 months. Acceptable proof includes:
- Pay stub
- W-2 form
- Signed employer letter
For private-duty work, submit a notarized Private Duty Form listing employment dates, duties, proof of payment, and employer or family contact information.
Step 2: Log in to the Nurse Portal
Access the Kentucky Nurse Portal. First-time users must create an account. A tutorial is available.
Step 3: Apply for Renewal
Select Apply for Renewal up to 60 days before expiration. Upload documentation at this step.
Step 4: Submit Additional Documentation
If more information is required, submit it through the portal or email kbn.knar@ky.gov.
Step 5: Verify Active Status
Once processed, confirm Active status through the KBN License Lookup.
Need help? Call KBN at (502) 429-3300.
How to Reinstate Your SRNA Registration in Kentucky
If your registration expired because you did not complete at least eight hours of qualifying work in the past 24 months, you must reinstate through KBN.
Step 1: Apply Through the Nurse Portal
Log in to the Kentucky Nurse Portal and select Apply for Reinstatement.
Step 2: Upload Required Documentation
Provide:
- Full name, date of birth, and SRNA or Social Security number
- Current mailing address and phone number
- Proof of at least eight hours of paid nursing-related work for each lapse period
Private-duty workers must submit a notarized SRNA Private Duty Form. If KBN requests more information, upload it through the portal or email kbn.knar@ky.gov.
Step 3: Complete Reinstatement Requirements
Option A – With Employment Verification
If your employment documentation is accepted, KBN will update your registration to Active. No exam required.
Option B – Without Employment Verification
If you cannot provide proof of work, you must:
- Complete a state-approved 75-hour SRNA training program
- Register for testing through TMU or the KCTCS site
- Pass both the knowledge and skills exams
Results are posted to TMU within 1–3 business days. Passing results are reported to KBN for registry placement, which may take up to 30 days.
Step 4: Verify Active Status
After reinstatement is approved, confirm your record in the KBN License Lookup. Your registration must show as Active before returning to work.
Need help? Call KCTCS at (877) 528-2748 or KBN at (502) 429-3300.
How to Transfer Your SRNA Registration to Kentucky
If you hold certification in another state, you may apply for registration through reciprocity. You must appear as Active in the KBN Registry before working in Kentucky.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
- Hold a current nurse aide certification in another U.S. state
- No substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation
Step 2: Access the Nurse Portal
Log in to the KBN Nurse Portal. Create or use an existing account to begin reciprocity.
Step 3: Submit the Reciprocity Application
Upload:
- Copy of your out-of-state certificate
- Government-issued photo ID
- Social Security card
Step 4: Provide Additional Documentation (If Requested)
If requested, submit documents through the portal or email kbn.knar@ky.gov.
Step 5: Verify Active Status
After approval, your record will show as Active in the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry. At that point, your registration is officially recognized.
Need help? Call KBN at (502) 429-3300 or email kbn.knar@ky.gov.
Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry
The Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry, maintained by KBN, is the official database of SRNAs. It records certification, exam results, and any substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation. Employers must verify active status before hire, while SRNAs use it to confirm certification, update personal details, and manage renewals or reinstatements.
Contact Information
- Agency: Kentucky Board of Nursing (KBN)
- Address: 312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 300, Louisville, KY 40222
- Phone: (502) 429-3300
- Toll-Free: (800) 305-2042
- Fax: (502) 429-3311
- Registry Search: Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry Lookup
State-Approved SRNA Programs in Kentucky
SRNA training programs must be approved by Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) to qualify for testing and registry placement. Each program includes classroom instruction and supervised clinical practice in a licensed facility. When comparing options, review tuition, program length, schedule, and clinical site placement. A list of approved SRNA programs in Kentucky is provided below.
- 600 College Street Rd, Elizabethtown, KY 42701(270) 769-2371
- 1845 Loop Ave, Bowling Green, KY 42101(270) 901-1000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an SRNA in Kentucky?
A State Registered Nurse Aide (SRNA) is Kentucky’s designation for nurse aides, equivalent to a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in other states. SRNAs provide direct care under licensed nurse supervision in Medicare- or Medicaid-approved facilities.
How long is SRNA registration valid?
It is valid for two years from the date you pass the competency exam. To remain active, you must renew every 24 months.
How do I check my SRNA status?
Use the KBN License Lookup. Your record must show Active to work in Kentucky.
Can I work before passing the exam?
Yes. You may work as a Nurse Aide Trainee in a Medicare- or Medicaid-certified facility for up to four months after hire. To continue, you must pass the exam and appear on the registry.
What if I fail the competency exam?
You may attempt the exam up to three times within 12 months of completing an approved program. After three failed attempts, you must complete another approved program before reapplying.
Do I need continuing education to renew?
No. Renewal requires at least eight hours of paid nursing or nursing-related work in the past 24 months under licensed nurse supervision.
How do I update my name or address?
Log in to the Kentucky Nurse Portal. Address changes can be completed online. For a name change, upload official documentation such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Key Takeaways
- Complete approved training: Finish a 75-hour program that includes 59 classroom hours and 16 hours of supervised clinical practice.
- Instructor submits your record to TMU: Your instructor must upload your training record before you can register for testing.
- Activate your TMU account and pay fees: Complete your profile in TMU and pay exam fees unless covered by your employer or program.
- Pass both exam components: Take the knowledge exam (written or oral) and the skills exam through KCTCS and Headmaster within one year of training.
- Appear on the state registry: After passing both exams, your name is added to the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry as official proof of certification.
- Renew every two years: Complete at least eight hours of paid nursing or nursing-related work in the past 24 months and renew through the Nurse Portal.
- Reinstate if expired: If lapsed, apply for reinstatement through the Nurse Portal with proof of qualifying work or by completing training and retesting.
- Transfer by reciprocity: Submit the reciprocity application through the Nurse Portal with proof of active out-of-state certification and required identification.
Sources
- KBN – SRNA Home
- KBN – How to Become an SRNA
- KBN – SRNA Verification
- KBN – SRNA Renewal
- KBN – SRNA Reinstatement
- KBN – SRNA Reciprocity
- KBN – Nursing Portal
- KCTCS – Nurse Aide Testing
- KCTCS – Online Testing
- KCTCS – Student Edition TMU Guide
- Headmaster – Kentucky CNA Testing
- Kentucky Medicaid Nurse Aide Training Manual (July 2024)
- TMU – Kentucky Testing Site
