To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Utah, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass both competency exams, and be listed on the Utah Nursing Assistant Registry (UNAR). This guide explains how to obtain your CNA license, verify certification, renew or reinstate an expired license, and transfer an active credential from another state—based on official guidance from Utah Nursing Assistant Registry (UNAR) and D&SDT-Headmaster.

How to Get a CNA License in Utah

The CNA certification process is regulated by UNAR. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Complete a State-Approved Training Program

Enroll in a UNAR-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), which includes:

  • 76 hours of classroom and lab instruction
  • 24 hours of supervised clinical practice

You must complete all hours before taking the state exams. A list of approved programs is available on the UNAR Approved Training Programs page.

Step 2: Activate Your TMU Account

After training, your instructor submits your information to UNAR, which creates your TestMaster Universe (TMU) account. TMU is used to schedule exams, access results, and manage certification. You will receive login details by email. Keep your contact information current.

Step 3: Pass the Certification Exams

The Utah CNA exam has two required components:

  • Written Knowledge Exam: 75 multiple-choice questions. Passing score: 75% (57 correct). Time limit: 2 hours.
  • Manual Skills Exam: Demonstrate five randomly selected skills, including mandatory hand hygiene. Passing requires 100% of key steps and 80% overall. Time limit: 45 minutes.

Each exam costs $55. You have up to three attempts per exam and must pass both within one year of completing training. If not, retraining is required.

Step 4: Be Listed on the Utah Nurse Aide Registry

After passing both exams, UNAR mails your certificate and wallet card within 7–10 business days. Your status is also updated in the Utah Nurse Aide Registry. Certification is valid for two years.

Need help? Email office@utahcnaregistry.com or visit the official website.

State-Approved CNA Programs in Utah

The following CNA programs are approved by UNAR. When selecting a program, consider tuition, schedule, clinical access, and job placement support.

  1. Bridgerland Technical College

    1301 N 600 W, Logan, UT 84321
    (435) 753-6780

  2. Clearfield Job Corps Center

    20 W 1700 S, Clearfield, UT 84016
    (801) 774-4000

  3. Davis Technical College

    550 E 300 S, Kaysville, UT 84037
    (801) 593-2353

  4. Dixie Technical College

    610 S Tech Ridge Dr, St. George, UT 84770
    (435) 674-8400

  5. Mountainland Technical College

    1410 W 1250 S, Orem, UT 84058
    (801) 753-6282

  6. Ogden-Weber Technical College

    200 N Washington Blvd, Ogden, UT 84404
    (801) 612-4179

  7. Salt Lake Community College

    3491 S Wights Fort Rd, West Jordan, UT 84088
    (801) 957-6362

  8. Snow College

    150 College Ave E, Ephraim, UT 84627
    (435) 283-7000

  9. Southwest Technical College

    757 W 800 S, Cedar City, UT 84720
    (435) 586-2899

  10. Tooele Technical College

    88 S Tooele Blvd, Tooele, UT 84074
    (435) 248-1800

  11. Uintah Basin Technical College

    1100 E Lagoon St, Roosevelt, UT 84066
    (435) 722-6900

  12. Utah State University

    639 W 100 S, Blanding, UT 84511
    (435) 678-2201

How to Verify a CNA License in Utah

Use the Utah TMU portal to check your certification status, expiration date, and employment eligibility. The portal is maintained by D&SDT-Headmaster with UNAR.

Step 1: Visit the Registry Search Page

Go to the Utah CNA Registry Search.

Screenshot of Utah CNA Registry Search page
Utah CNA Registry Search page

Step 2: Choose a Search Method

Select one of the following:

  • Name — Enter in “Last, First” format
  • Certification Number
  • SSN — Full number or last four digits

Step 3: Enter Search Criteria

Input your information in the Look For field.

Step 4: Submit and Review Results

Click Search to view your record. Results display:

  • Full name, city, and ZIP
  • Certification status
  • Misconduct history

Step 5: View Record Details

Select Show Record Details to view certification history, issue and expiration dates, and any misconduct findings.

Phone Verification: Call (800) 393-8664, Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. MT.

How to Renew a CNA License in Utah

CNA certification must be renewed every two years. Renewal requires verification of work hours, a completed form, and employer signatures.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

You must have at least 200 paid hours of nursing or nursing-related services under the supervision of a licensed nurse within the past 24 months. Volunteer hours do not count.

Step 2: Access the Renewal Form

Log into your TMU account and select “Eligible Renewals”. Click “Print Renewal Documents” and ensure:

  • Section 1 is signed by each qualifying employer
  • Section 2 is completed and signed by you
  • All contact information is current

Step 3: Submit the Completed Form

Do not fax your form. Submit via one method only.

Step 4: Pay Late Fees If Required

If submitted after expiration, UNAR will email a payment link. Late fees include:

Only electronic payments are accepted. Checks, cash, or money orders are not accepted.

Step 5: Confirm Renewal

Once processed, UNAR mails your updated certificate and wallet card within 2–3 weeks. Check your status in the Utah Nurse Aide Registry.

Note: Renewal forms are accepted up to six months after expiration. Certifications expired more than 24 months require retraining and retesting.

How to Reinstate a CNA License in Utah

Reinstatement depends on how long your certification has been expired. UNAR outlines the following pathways:

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Step 2: Submit the Correct Form

Select the appropriate application. Do not schedule exams until UNAR confirms approval.

Step 3: Pay Exam Fees

  • Written Knowledge Exam: $55
  • Manual Skills Exam: $55

Step 4: Schedule and Pass the Exams

  • Pass both exams within one year of approval
  • You have up to three attempts

Step 5: Retrain If Required

If you fail or your certification is over 24 months expired, you must retrain before reapplying.

Step 6: Verify Reinstatement

After passing both exams, your status is updated to Active in the Utah Nurse Aide Registry.

Reminder: The six-month grace period does not extend the 24-month work requirement. Deadlines are strictly enforced.

How to Transfer a CNA License to Utah

Active CNAs from other states may apply for certification in Utah through reciprocity without retraining or retesting.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

  • Hold an active CNA certification from another state
  • No substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation

Step 2: Access the Application

Download the Utah CNA Reciprocity Application.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

  • Copy of active certification or registry status
  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Social Security card
  • Proof of CNA employment or original training/testing

Step 4: Submit the Packet

Step 5: Wait for Approval

UNAR reviews your application and notifies you of the outcome. Once approved, your name is added to the registry.

Need help? Call (801) 547-9947 or email nurse.aide@davistech.edu.

Utah Nursing Assistant Registry (UNAR)

The Utah Nursing Assistant Registry (UNAR) is the official record of CNAs authorized to work in Utah. UNAR approves and monitors NATCEPs, administers the competency evaluation, issues certifications, processes renewals, and manages reciprocity. The registry also maintains the State Abuse Registry for substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of property. Employers use it to confirm CNA work eligibility, while CNAs use it to manage status, renewals, and updates through the TestMaster Universe (TMU) system, operated with D&SDT-Headmaster.

Contact Information

Utah Nursing Assistant Registry (UNAR)

  • Address: 350 Simmons Way, Suite 700, Kaysville, UT 84037
  • Phone: (801) 547-9947
  • Email: office@utahcnaregistry.com
  • Website: utahcnaregistry.com
  • Office Hours: Monday–Thursday, 7:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m. MST

D&SDT-Headmaster (Registry Provider)

Frequently Asked Questions

What identification is required for the CNA exam in Utah?

You must present two valid forms of identification. The primary ID must be government-issued with a photo and signature, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID. The secondary ID must include your name and signature.

How do I request testing accommodations for a disability?

To request accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), complete the ADA Accommodation Request Form with supporting documentation. UNAR must approve all requests before scheduling.

What happens if I fail the CNA exam in Utah?

You are allowed three attempts within one year of training to pass both the written and skills exams. If unsuccessful, you must complete a new UNAR-approved program before retesting.

What subjects are covered in Utah CNA training programs?

Programs include at least 100 hours of instruction covering resident rights, communication, infection control, safety, basic nursing skills, personal care, nutrition, mental health, and restorative services. Training consists of classroom, lab, and supervised clinical practice.

Is financial aid available for CNA programs in Utah?

Yes. Many approved programs accept federal financial aid, WIOA funding, and state-based grants. Additional support may be available through employers or scholarships offered by training providers.

How can I update the name on my CNA certificate?

Submit the UNAR Name Change Form with legal documentation, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. An updated certificate will be issued once processed.

How do I request a replacement certificate or wallet card?

If lost, submit the Duplicate Certificate Application. Provide your full name, date of birth, and certification number if available. The fee is $10 for a mailed copy or $15 for both digital and mailed versions.

Key Takeaways

  • Complete approved training: Enroll in a UNAR-approved NATCEP with 76 hours of classroom and lab instruction and 24 hours of supervised clinical practice.
  • Set up TMU account: After training, your instructor enters your information into TMU. Activate your account, update demographic details, and prepare for testing.
  • Pass both exam components: Complete the written knowledge exam and manual skills exam through D&SDT-Headmaster within one year of training. Up to three attempts are allowed.
  • Be listed on the registry: Once certified, your name appears on the Utah Nurse Aide Registry, and you receive a certificate and wallet card from UNAR.
  • Renew every two years: Provide proof of at least 200 hours of paid nursing or nursing-related work in the past 24 months. Submit the signed renewal form through TMU.
  • Reinstate if expired: If expired up to six months, renew with late fees. If expired six to 24 months, retest through UNAR. If expired more than 24 months, complete a new program and exams.
  • Transfer by reciprocity: Apply with UNAR by submitting the reciprocity application, photo ID, Social Security card, and proof of active out-of-state certification or qualifying employment.