To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Oregon, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass the competency exam, and be listed on the Oregon Nurse Aide Registry. This guide explains how to apply for a license, renew or reinstate certification, verify status, and transfer an out-of-state credential based on current requirements from the Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN).
- How to Get Your CNA License in Oregon
- How to Verify Your CNA License in Oregon
- How to Renew Your CNA License in Oregon
- How to Reinstate Your CNA License in Oregon
- How to Transfer Your CNA License to Oregon
- Oregon Nurse Aide Registry
- State-Approved CNA Programs in Oregon
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Key Takeaways
How to Get Your CNA License in Oregon
The certification process in Oregon is regulated by OSBN and testing is administered by Headmaster. Follow these steps to get certified.
Step 1: Complete a State-Approved Training Program
Enroll in a program approved by the OSBN. Training must include at least 155 hours, with a minimum of 75 hours of supervised clinical practice. You must complete the program before applying for certification.
Step 2: Apply for Certification
Create an account in the OSBN Nurse Portal. Submit the CNA application and pay the $106 fee. Enter your full legal name, Social Security number, and date of birth accurately. A confirmation email will validate your account before portal access.
Step 3: Submit Fingerprints
After applying, schedule fingerprinting through Fieldprint Oregon using code FPORBoardNursingDAS. The fee is $70.50. Fingerprints must be completed after submitting your application and cannot be reused from other agencies. Processing may take up to 8 weeks.
Step 4: Activate Your TMU Account
When your training program uploads your details to the TestMaster Universe (TMU) portal, you will receive login instructions. Sign in, reset your password, and verify your demographic information before scheduling the exam.
Step 5: Schedule and Pass the CNA Exam
Use the TMU portal to schedule exams. You must pass both the knowledge and skills tests within one year of training completion. Candidates are allowed up to three attempts. After three failed attempts, you must retake the training program.
Knowledge Exam
- Format: 80 multiple-choice questions
- Time limit: 90 minutes
- Passing score: 73%
- Delivery: In person or remote
Skills Exam
- 3 or 4 randomly assigned tasks
- Mandatory task: Handwashing
- Time limit: 35 minutes
- Passing criteria: All key steps and 80% of remaining steps must be correct
Retake Fees
| Exam Component | Fee |
|---|---|
| Knowledge Test Retake | $25 |
| Skills Test Retake | $45 |
Step 6: Verify Certification on the Registry
Once exams and the background check are complete, OSBN will issue your CNA license and list your name on the Oregon Nurse Aide Registry. Certification is valid for two years. Confirmation will appear in your portal account.
Need help? For exam scheduling or scores, call Headmaster at (800) 393-8664. For application issues, use the OSBN Nurse Portal.
How to Verify Your CNA License in Oregon
Use the official OSBN portal to confirm license status, expiration date, and work eligibility.
Step 1: Access the Verification Portal
Visit the OSBN License Lookup.
Step 2: Enter Search Details
- Enter the last name and first name.
- Select CNA under License Type.
Step 3: Complete CAPTCHA
Check the box to confirm you are not a robot.
Step 4: Submit the Search
Click Search and select View Report next to the record.
Step 5: Review the Report
- Name on license
- License number
- Status: Must show Active
- Issue and expiration dates
This report serves as primary source verification for transfers to other states.
Phone Verification: Call (971) 673-0685, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. PT.
How to Renew Your CNA License in Oregon
CNA certification must be renewed every two years. Follow these steps through the OSBN Nurse Portal.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
You must complete at least 400 hours of paid, supervised work during the current 24-month cycle. No continuing education is required.
Step 2: Determine Renewal Year
Licenses expire the day before your birthday in even-numbered years if you were born in an even year, and in odd-numbered years if born in an odd year. Renewal opens 45 days before expiration.
Step 3: Submit the Renewal Application
Log in to the OSBN Nurse Portal. Under Your Licenses with OSBN, click Renew your License and complete the form.
Step 4: Pay Renewal Fee
- Standard Fee: $60
- Late Fee: $100 plus $60 renewal fee
Renewals more than 30 days late require reactivation and new fingerprints.
Step 5: Confirm Certification
Your updated status will appear in the OSBN License Lookup.
Reminder: Keep your contact details current to receive renewal notices.
How to Reinstate Your CNA License in Oregon
If certification lapses without 400 hours of qualifying work, you must apply for reinstatement.
Step 1: Submit the Retake Application
Log in to the OSBN Nurse Portal and submit the CNA Exam – Retake application. The fee is $106. Use a desktop computer. Ensure your name, Social Security number, and date of birth match your ID.
Step 2: Complete Fingerprinting
Schedule fingerprinting through Fieldprint Oregon using code FPORBoardNursingDAS. The fee is $70.50.
Note: Submitting fingerprints before applying will delay processing.
Step 3: Wait for Authorization
Once approved, you will receive testing authorization in your portal Message Center. Do not schedule exams before release.
Step 4: Schedule Exams in TMU
Log in to your TMU account. Once authorized, schedule both exams.
Step 5: Pass Both Exams
- Knowledge Exam: 80 questions, 90 minutes, passing score 73%
- Skills Exam: 3–4 tasks, 80% accuracy and all key steps required
Retake fees:
- Knowledge Exam: $25
- Skills Exam: $45
Step 6: Confirm Certification
Check the OSBN License Lookup to confirm reinstated status.
Need help? Call Headmaster at (800) 393-8664 or message OSBN through the portal.
How to Transfer Your CNA License to Oregon
You may apply by endorsement if you hold an active CNA license in another state.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
- Completed a program meeting federal OBRA standards
- Hold a current certification in another U.S. state
- Completed 400 hours of paid CNA work in the past 2 years
- OR: Have qualifying military medic training with discharge documents
Step 2: Create a Portal Account
Use a computer to create an account on the OSBN Online Portal. Enter your legal name, SSN, and date of birth accurately. Validate your email before first login.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Log in and select the CNA by Endorsement application. The fee is $60. Answer background questions truthfully and upload required documents.
Step 4: Verify Training
Enter your original training details. If OSBN cannot verify internally, upload your certificate via the portal or email it to osbn.cnacertificates@state.or.us.
Step 5: Complete Fingerprinting
Schedule fingerprinting through Fieldprint Oregon after applying. Use code FPORBoardNursingDAS. The fee is $70.50.
Note: Do not reuse fingerprints from other agencies.
Step 6: Monitor Your Application
Check the Message Center in your portal account regularly. Respond promptly to OSBN requests.
Step 7: Confirm Certification
Once approved, your status will display as Active in the Oregon Nurse Aide Registry.
Need help? Use the OSBN Portal or email osbn.cnacertificates@state.or.us.
Oregon Nurse Aide Registry
The Oregon Nurse Aide Registry, maintained by OSBN, is the official record of CNAs authorized to work in the state. It tracks certification status, exam results, fingerprint clearance, training verification, and disciplinary actions. Employers use the registry to confirm work eligibility, while CNAs use it to manage applications, renewals, and endorsements.
Contact Information
- Agency: Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN)
- Address: 17938 SW Upper Boones Ferry Road, Portland, OR 97224
- Phone: (971) 673-0685
- Fax: (971) 673-0684
- Email: Oregon.BN.Info@OSBN.Oregon.gov
- Registry Search: Oregon Nurse Aide Registry Search
- Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. PST
State-Approved CNA Programs in Oregon
The following programs are approved by OSBN. When comparing options, consider tuition, location, class schedule, clinical sites, and job placement support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oregon still using CNA 1 and CNA 2 titles after July 1, 2025?
No. As of July 1, 2025, Oregon consolidated CNA 1 and CNA 2 into a single CNA certification.
What does Oregon’s CNA curriculum cover?
The curriculum covers infection control, basic nursing skills, communication, personal care, and resident rights.
Will I learn advanced CNA skills in Oregon training programs?
No. Advanced skills formerly taught in CNA2 are now “additional authorized duties” taught and validated on the job by a Registered Nurse.
What should I expect on CNA exam day in Oregon?
Arrive 20–30 minutes early with two valid IDs, including one with a photo. Wear appropriate clothing and closed-toe, non-skid shoes. Late arrivals count as no-shows and require reapplication and repayment.
What happens if I fail the CNA exam in Oregon?
You must submit a CNA Exam Retake Application through the OSBN Portal. Once approved, log in to TMU to reschedule.
Can I test at my training site instead of a regional test center?
Yes. Some programs are approved for in-facility testing. Your instructor will confirm availability and provide the exam date.
How long does it take for fingerprints to be processed?
Processing may take up to 8 weeks. Fingerprints must be submitted after applying through the OSBN Portal and cannot be reused from other agencies.
Key Takeaways
- Complete approved training: Finish an OSBN-approved program with at least 155 hours, including 75 hours of supervised clinical practice.
- Submit fingerprint clearance: Complete digital fingerprinting through Fieldprint Inc. for state and federal background checks.
- Pass both exam components: Take the knowledge and skills exams through D&SDT-Headmaster using the TMU system.
- Appear on the state registry: After certification, your active status is posted on the Oregon Nurse Aide Registry as official proof of work eligibility.
- Renew every two years: Complete renewal through the OSBN portal and verify at least 400 hours of paid CNA work within the 24-month cycle. Continuing education is not required.
- Reinstate if expired: If certification lapses without meeting work requirements, submit a new application, complete fingerprinting, and retake both exams.
- Transfer by endorsement: Apply through the OSBN portal with proof of active out-of-state certification, verified training, and fingerprint clearance.
Sources
- Oregon State Board of Nursing Homepage
- OSBN Licensing How-To Guides
- CNA Consolidation Q&A – Effective July 1, 2025 (OSBN PDF)
- List of OSBN-Approved CNA Training Programs
- CNA Certification by Examination Directions (OSBN PDF)
- CNA Certification by Endorsement Directions (OSBN PDF)
- CNA Retake Directions (OSBN PDF)
- Fieldprint Oregon Fingerprinting Portal
- LIC-614 Name/Address Change Form (OSBN PDF)
- OSBN Online Licensing Portal
- Headmaster Oregon CNA Testing Portal
- Oregon Nurse Aide Candidate Handbook (Headmaster PDF)
- Oregon Nurse Aide License Lookup Tool
