SRNA License in Kentucky

How to Get an 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.

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.

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.

1. Ashland Community & Technical College

   1400 College Drive, Ashland, KY 41101
   (606) 326-2000

2. Big Sandy Community & Technical College

   1 Bert Combs Dr, Prestonsburg, KY 41653
   (606) 886-3863

3. Elizabethtown Community & Technical College

   600 College Street Rd, Elizabethtown, KY 42701
   (270) 769-2371

4. Gateway Community & Technical College

   500 Technology Way, Florence, KY 41042
   (859) 441-4500

5. Hazard Community & Technical College

   1 Community College Dr, Hazard, KY 41701
   (606) 436-5721

6. Henderson Community College

   2660 S Green St, Henderson, KY 42420
   (270) 827-1867

7. Hopkinsville Community College

   720 North Dr, Hopkinsville, KY 42240
   (270) 707-3700

8. Jefferson Community & Technical College

   109 E Broadway, Louisville, KY 40202
   (502) 213-5333

9. Owensboro Community & Technical College

   4800 New Hartford Rd, Owensboro, KY 42303
   (270) 686-4400

10. Southcentral Kentucky Community & Technical College

    1845 Loop Ave, Bowling Green, KY 42101
    (270) 901-1000

11. Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College

    700 College Rd, Cumberland, KY 40823
    (606) 589-2145

12. West Kentucky Community & Technical College

    4810 Alben Barkley Dr, Paducah, KY 42001
    (270) 554-9200

How to Verify an 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

How to Renew an 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.

How to Reinstate an 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.

How to Transfer an 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.

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

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.