CNA License in Nebraska

How to Get a CNA License in Nebraska

To obtain your CNA license, you must meet all training, examination, and abuse prevention requirements set by DHHS. Follow the steps below to qualify for the registry.

Step 1: Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program

You must complete a 75-hour nurse aide training program approved by DHHS, including at least 16 hours of supervised clinical experience.

Step 2: Complete Nebraska Abuse/Neglect/Misappropriation Training

Complete a one-hour Nebraska-specific training on abuse, neglect, and misappropriation. This is typically included in in-state programs but must be completed separately for other routes (e.g., endorsement or foreign training).

• Select an approved provider.
• Submit documentation using the Abuse In-Service Documentation Form.

Step 3: Pass the Nebraska Nurse Aide Competency Exams

After completing training, pass both components of the state exam:

• Written/Oral Exam: 50 multiple-choice questions. Minimum passing score: 70%.
• Skills Exam: Perform six tasks. Each must be passed with 70% and all required steps.

You may attempt each exam up to three times. After three failed attempts, you must retake the full training program.

Step 4: Get Listed on the Nebraska Nurse Aide Registry

Once all requirements are met, your name will be added to the Nebraska Nurse Aide Registry. Nebraska does not issue physical certificates. You may print your wallet card from the registry.

State-Approved CNA Programs in Nebraska

The following programs are approved by DHHS. When selecting a program, evaluate tuition, location, clinical site access, schedule flexibility, and job placement support to find the best fit.

1. Metropolitan Community College

   5300 N 30th St, Omaha, NE 68111
   (800) 228-9553

2. Nebraska Methodist College

   720 N 87th St, Omaha, NE 68114
   (402) 354-7000

3. Bryan College of Health Sciences

   1535 S 52nd St, Lincoln, NE 68506
   (402) 481-3801

4. Southeast Community College

   8800 O St, Lincoln, NE 68520
   (402) 471-3333

5. Central Community College

   3134 US-34, Grand Island, NE 68801
   (308) 398-4222

6. Northeast Community College

   801 E Benjamin Ave, Norfolk, NE 68701
   (402) 371-2020

7. Nebraska Indian Community College

   1111 US-75, Macy, NE 68039
   (402) 494-2311

8. Mid Plains Community College

   601 W State Farm Rd, North Platte, NE 69101
   (308) 535-3600

9. McCook Community College

   1205 E 3rd St, McCook, NE 69001
   (308) 345-8100

10. Western Nebraska Community College

    1601 E 27th St, Scottsbluff, NE 69361
    (308) 635-3606

How to Verify a CNA License in Nebraska

Use the Nebraska Nurse Aide Registry to check your license status, view any findings, and print your wallet card.

Step 1: Access the Nurse Aide Registry

Visit the License Information System Search.

Step 2: Search by Individual

Select Individual Search and enter your full name or license number.

Step 3: Select Profession and License Type

• Profession: Nursing Support
• License Type: Nurse Aide

Step 4: Review Results and Print Wallet Card

Click your name in the results and select Generate Wallet Card to view or print your certification.

How to Maintain a CNA License in Nebraska

To remain active on the registry, you must meet Nebraska's work requirement. No renewal application is needed.

Work Requirement

Complete at least 8 hours of paid CNA work in the past 24 months in an approved healthcare setting.

Employer Reporting

• Upon hire, employers must submit the Registry Form.
• When employment ends, they must submit the Termination Form.

How to Reinstate a CNA License in Nebraska

If you have not worked as a CNA in the last 24 months, your status will be marked as lapsed. You must retest to regain active status.

Step 1: Schedule Recompetency Testing

Contact an approved site from the recompetency directory to schedule both exams.

Step 2: Pass the Exams

• Written/Oral Exam: 50 questions, passing score 70%.
• Skills Exam: Six tasks, each must be passed with 70% and all required steps.

You have three attempts per exam. If you fail three times, retraining is required.

Step 3: Regain Active Status

Your registry status will update to Active within three weeks of passing the exams.

How to Transfer a CNA License to Nebraska

To work in Nebraska, you must appear as Active on the Nebraska Nurse Aide Registry before starting employment.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Current CNA certification in another state
• Completion of a 75-hour training program
• Passing scores on both competency exams
• Recent CNA work or testing within 24 months

Important: If previously listed on the Nebraska Registry, you must submit an Employment Verification Form or retest instead.

Step 2: Submit the Endorsement Application

Complete the Interstate Endorsement Application and include full documentation of training and work history.

Step 3: Complete Nebraska Abuse Training

This one-hour training is required for all incoming CNAs. You may complete it through:

• Employer orientation
• Online: Providence Health Career Institute, Southeast Community College, or Clarkson College
• In-person at a Nebraska college

Submit the completed Abuse In-Service Documentation Form to the registry.

Step 4: Submit All Documents

Send your application and documentation to:

• Mail: PO Box 94986, Lincoln, NE 68509-4986
• Fax: (402) 742-1151
• Email:DHHS.NursingSupport@nebraska.gov

Step 5: Wait for Processing

Processing may take up to 30 days. Incomplete applications will be returned with a deficiency notice.

Step 6: Verify Your Status

Once approved, your status will appear as Active in the Nebraska Nurse Aide Registry. You may print your wallet card for verification.

Nebraska Nurse Aide Registry

The Nebraska Nurse Aide Registry, maintained by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), is the official record of certified nurse aides authorized to work in licensed health care facilities across the state. The registry tracks certification status, employment eligibility, and any substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation. Employers must verify a nurse aide’s active status before hire, while CNAs use the registry to confirm certification, update personal information, and generate a wallet card.

Contact Information

• Agency: Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Licensure Unit – Nursing Support
• Mailing Address: PO Box 94986, Lincoln, NE 68509-4986
• Physical Address: 301 Centennial Mall South, 3rd Floor, Lincoln, NE 68508
• Phone: (402) 471-4322
• Fax: (402) 742-1151
• Email: DHHS.NursingSupport@nebraska.gov
• Registry Search: Nebraska Nurse Aide Registry Search

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a CNA in Nebraska?

You must complete a Nebraska-approved 75-hour CNA training program, pass both the written/oral and skills competency exams, and complete the one-hour Nebraska Abuse/Neglect/Misappropriation Training.

What is the minimum age required?

You must be at least 16 years old.

Are nursing students eligible for CNA certification?

Yes. You must submit a cover letter, an official transcript or signed instructor letter showing qualifying coursework, and proof of completing Nebraska’s abuse training if it was not part of your curriculum.

How can foreign-trained nurses apply for CNA certification?

You must submit a cover letter, a CGFNS Professional Report, proof of completing Nebraska’s abuse training, and pass the state-approved CNA exams.

Is there a fee to apply for CNA certification in Nebraska?

No. Nebraska does not charge a fee for listing on the Nebraska Nurse Aide Registry.

How do I change my name or address on the Nebraska Nurse Aide Registry?

Submit the Name Change Form or Address Change Form with required documentation to the Licensure Unit.

What equipment is used during skills testing?

Testing centers must provide equipment such as gait belts, wheelchairs, linens, personal care items, and a patient care mannequin. View the complete Equipment List for details.

Can I apply for a preliminary conviction review before enrolling in a CNA program?

Yes. Submit the Preliminary Conviction Review Application and required documentation with a $100 fee. This determines if your conviction disqualifies you from CNA licensure before you begin training.

Key Takeaways

• Complete approved training: Finish a Nebraska-approved 75-hour Nurse Aide Training Program, including at least 16 hours of supervised clinical practice and a one-hour abuse, neglect, and misappropriation course.
• Pass both exam components: Take and pass the written (or oral) knowledge test and the clinical skills evaluation. Both must be passed to qualify for placement on the registry.
• Appear on the state registry: Once certified, your name is listed on the Nebraska Nurse Aide Registry. Nebraska does not issue paper certificates, but a wallet card can be generated online.
• Maintain active status: Work at least 8 hours in a paid CNA position within a Nebraska-licensed healthcare setting every 24 months. No renewal application is required.
• Reinstate if lapsed: If inactive more than 24 months, you must retake and pass both the written/oral and skills exams. Nurse aides trained in 30-hour programs before 1989 must complete the full 75-hour course.
• Transfer by reciprocity: Submit the Interstate Endorsement Application, provide verification of active out-of-state certification, and complete Nebraska’s abuse prevention training. Recent testing or CNA employment within 24 months is also required.