CNA License in Pennsylvania

Whether you're considering a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant or already hold a CNA license in another state and are looking to transfer to Pennsylvania, this guide will walk you through the certification process, renewal requirements, and other essential aspects such as verification and reinstatement. By understanding the necessary steps and regulations, you'll be well-equipped to pursue a successful CNA career in Pennsylvania.

CNA Certification Requirements in Pennsylvania

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Pennsylvania, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Age: You must be at least 16 years old.
2. Education: A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required.
3. Training Program: Complete a state-approved CNA training program of at least 120 hours, including classroom instruction and clinical practice.
4. Criminal Background Check: Undergo a background check, including fingerprinting.
5. Immunizations and Health Screening: Provide proof of required immunizations and undergo a health screening.
6. CPR Certification: Obtain a valid CPR certification.
7. State Competency Evaluation: Pass the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Competency Examination, which includes a written/oral test and skills demonstration.

How to Get Your CNA Certification in Pennsylvania

To obtain your CNA certification in Pennsylvania, you need to follow these steps:

1. Meet the Requirements: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, including being at least 16 years old and having a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
2. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and successfully complete a state-approved CNA training program, which includes both classroom instruction and supervised clinical practice.
3. Undergo Background Check and Health Screening: Undergo a criminal background check, including fingerprinting, and provide proof of immunizations and undergo a health screening.
4. Obtain CPR Certification: Obtain a valid CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) certification from a recognized provider, such as the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.
5. Pass the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Competency Examination: Take and pass the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Competency Examination, which consists of a written/oral test and a skills demonstration.
6. Apply for Certification: Submit an application for CNA certification to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, along with any required documentation and payment of applicable fees.

How to Verify Your CNA Certification in Pennsylvania

To verify your CNA certification in Pennsylvania, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health Website: Go to the official website of the Pennsylvania Department of Health, which is the regulatory body responsible for CNA certifications in the state.
2. Access the Certification Verification Page: Look for the section or page dedicated to CNA certification verification on the Pennsylvania Department of Health website.
3. Provide Required Information: Enter the requested information for the CNA you wish to verify. Typically, you will need to provide details such as the individual's full name, certification number, or social security number.
4. Submit the Request: After entering the required information, submit the verification request through the online system.
5. Receive Certification Verification: The system will process your request and provide the verification results. This may include confirming the individual's certification status, the certification expiration date, and any disciplinary actions, if applicable.

Alternatively, you may also be able to verify CNA certification in Pennsylvania by contacting the Pennsylvania Department of Health directly via phone or email.

How to Renew Your CNA Certification in Pennsylvania

To renew your CNA certification in Pennsylvania, follow these steps:

1. Review Renewal Requirements: Check the renewal criteria set by the Pennsylvania Department of Health.
2. Complete Required Work Hours: Work as a paid CNA for a minimum number of hours within the certification period.
3. Maintain Continuing Education: Fulfill any mandated continuing education requirements.
4. Gather Proof of Work and Education: Collect documentation of your work hours and completed continuing education courses.
5. Access Renewal Application: Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health website and obtain the renewal application form or access the online renewal system.
6. Complete the Application: Provide accurate information, including personal details, employment history, and supporting documents.
7. Submit the Application: Send the completed application, required documents, and renewal fee as instructed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health.
8. Await Renewal Confirmation: Allow time for processing and expect to receive confirmation of your renewed CNA certification.

How to Reinstate Your CNA Certification in Pennsylvania

To reinstate your CNA certification in Pennsylvania, follow these steps:

1. Determine Eligibility: Confirm that you are eligible for reinstatement. Typically, this means you held a CNA certification in Pennsylvania that has lapsed or become inactive.
2. Contact the Pennsylvania Department of Health: Reach out to the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the appropriate regulatory authority to inquire about the specific requirements and procedures for reinstatement.
3. Obtain Reinstatement Application: Obtain the reinstatement application form or access the online reinstatement system, if available. This can be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of Health website or by contacting them directly.
4. Complete the Application: Fill out the reinstatement application accurately and provide all the requested information. This may include personal details, previous certification information, and any additional documentation required.
5. Submit Supporting Documents: Gather and submit any supporting documents requested by the Pennsylvania Department of Health to support your reinstatement application. This may include proof of previous certification, work experience, or completion of any required continuing education.
6. Pay Reinstatement Fees: Include payment for the reinstatement fees as specified by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Ensure that you follow the accepted methods of payment.
7. Await Reinstatement Decision: Allow time for the Pennsylvania Department of Health to review your reinstatement application. They will notify you of their decision regarding the reinstatement of your CNA certification.

How to Transfer Your CNA Certification from Pennsylvania to Another State

To transfer your CNA certification from Pennsylvania to another state, follow these general steps:

1. Research the Requirements: Research the specific requirements and regulations for transferring your CNA certification to the state where you intend to practice. Contact the nursing board or regulatory agency to obtain accurate and up-to-date information.
2. Request Verification of Certification: Contact the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the responsible agency for CNA certifications in Pennsylvania to request certification verification, typically through a verification form or letter.
3. Complete Application in the New State: Obtain and complete the application for CNA certification transfer from the new state's nursing board or regulatory agency, including all necessary information and supporting documentation.
4. Submit Verification and Application: Submit the Pennsylvania certification verification and the completed application to the new state's nursing board or regulatory agency. Be sure to follow their specific submission instructions, which may involve mailing or online submission.
5. Pay Transfer Fees: Pay the required transfer fees to the new state using their accepted methods of payment.
6. Await Transfer Approval: Allow time for the new state's nursing board or regulatory agency to review your application and verify your Pennsylvania certification. They will notify you of their decision regarding the transfer of your CNA certification.
7. Follow Additional State Requirements: Once your transfer is approved, follow any additional requirements or conditions set by the new state. These may include background checks, additional documentation, or specific educational and training prerequisites.

State-Approved CNA Programs in Pennsylvania

There are many great schools that offer approved training to prospective CNAs in Pennsylvania. Some of the top ones can be found listed here.

1. Community College of Allegheny County

   808 Ridge Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 (412) 237-4470

2. Keystone Job Corps Center

   235 W Foothills Dr, Drums, PA 18222 (570) 788-1164

3. Lancaster County Career & Technology Center

   1730 Hans Herr Dr, Willow Street, PA 17584 (717) 464-7050

4. Northampton Community College

   511 E 3rd St, Bethlehem, PA 18015 (610) 332-6585

5. Philadelphia Job Corps Center

   2810 S 20th St #12, Philadelphia, PA 19145 (267) 386-2922

6. Pittsburgh Job Corps Center

   7175 Highland Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (412) 441-8700