How to Reinstate Your Expired Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) License

If your Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification has expired, you must complete your state’s reinstatement process to regain active status. This guide explains reinstatement requirements and provides step-by-step instructions for CNA license reinstatement.

What Is CNA License Reinstatement?

CNA license reinstatement is the process of restoring active certification after your license has expired or lapsed. Depending on state rules and the length of inactivity, reinstatement may require submitting documentation, retaking exams, or completing a new training program.

How to Reinstate an Expired CNA License: Step-by-Step

Most states follow these reinstatement steps:

1. Check Eligibility: Verify your certification status and review reinstatement requirements with your state Nurse Aide Registry.
2. Submit Application: Complete the reinstatement form and pay all required fees.
3. Provide Documentation: Submit proof of employment, continuing education, or other supporting records.
4. Complete Training or Testing: If required, finish a state-approved program and pass the Knowledge and Skills Exams.
5. Confirm Reinstatement: Once approved, your certification is updated to Active in the state Nurse Aide Registry.

CNA License Reinstatement by State

Select your state below to view the reinstatement process for an expired certification:

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

Alabama

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Alabama, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If inactive more than 24 months, you must complete a state-approved 75-hour training program and retake both the Knowledge and Skills Exams through Credentia or Prometric.
2. Complete training: Enroll in an approved program and fulfill all classroom and clinical requirements.
3. Take exams: Pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams as scheduled.
4. Confirm reinstatement: Once you pass, your status updates to Active in the Alabama Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Alabama CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Alaska

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Alaska, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If lapsed under one year, submit 24 CE hours and 160 paid hours. If lapsed one to five years, provide CE and work verification or pass a competency exam. If over five years, complete a new program and apply as a new candidate.
2. Submit application: Complete Form 08-4365 with all required documents.
3. Provide documents: Include CE proof, work history or exam results, and one fingerprint card.
4. Pay fees: $175 by check, money order, or credit card.
5. Mail packet: Send the application to the Alaska Board of Nursing.
6. Confirm reinstatement: Processing takes 4–6 weeks. Track status in the MY LICENSE portal. Once approved, your status updates to Active in the Alaska Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Alaska CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Arizona

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Arizona, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: You may reinstate if expired more than 24 months ago, you have not worked since, and no investigations are pending. Retraining is not required if you previously completed an approved program.
2. Register in TMU: Log in, upload your ID and Certificate of Completion, and verify your profile.
3. Pay exam fees: $35 Knowledge, $45 Audio, $95 Skills. Both exams must be passed within two years.
4. Apply for certification: After passing, log in to the Nurse Portal, select “CNA by Exam,” and upload documents.
5. Confirm reinstatement: Once approved, your status updates to Active in the Arizona Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Arizona CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Arkansas

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Arkansas, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: Applies if you have not worked as a CNA in the past 24 months and cannot renew through TMU.
2. Request authorization: Contact Headmaster for TMU login credentials.
3. Update profile: Log in, update your password, and confirm details.
4. Pay exam fees: $30 Knowledge; $95 Skills. Some Medicaid-certified employers may cover costs.
5. Schedule and test: Pass both exams within one year. Up to three attempts are allowed.
6. Confirm reinstatement: After passing, your status updates to Active in the Arkansas Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Arkansas CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

California

To reinstate your expired CNA license in California, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: You may reinstate if expired within two years. If expired longer, you must complete a new program.
2. Submit application: File CDPH Form 283C and select reactivation by exam.
3. Receive approval: CDPH will issue testing instructions after review.
4. Take exams: Pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams through Headmaster or Credentia within two years of expiration.
5. Confirm reinstatement: Once exams and background clearance are complete, CDPH updates your status to Active in the California Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full California CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Colorado

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Colorado, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: Apply under Route E11 with proof of prior Colorado CNA certificate or training. Without proof, a new program is required.
2. Submit application: Apply online with the Colorado Board of Nursing and pay the fee.
3. Register for exams: Apply through Credentia’s CNA365 system.
4. Take exams: Pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams within three attempts in 24 months.
5. Confirm reinstatement: Once approved, your status updates to Active in the Colorado Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Colorado CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Connecticut

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Connecticut, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: Route 4 – Lapsed Nurse Aide applies if expired and you have not worked eight hours in the past 24 months. Retraining is not required if prior training can be verified.
2. Submit application: Apply through Prometric under Route 4 with documents.
3. Pay fees: $118 Skills + Knowledge; $128 Skills + Oral.
4. Take exams: Prometric issues an admission letter. You must pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams.
5. Confirm reinstatement: After passing, your status updates to Active in the Connecticut Nurse Aide Registry. A new certificate is mailed within 15 business days.

See the full Connecticut CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Delaware

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Delaware, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: Apply if expired and you did not complete 64 hours of paid CNA work in the past 24 months.
2. Submit application: File the CNA Exam Application under Route 3 with proof of certification and the $115 fee.
3. Receive authorization: Authorization to Test is issued in 10–14 business days.
4. Take exams: Pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams. Bring two valid IDs.
5. Confirm reinstatement: Results are posted in 7–10 business days. Once passed, your status updates to Active in the Delaware CNA Registry.

See the full Delaware CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Florida

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Florida, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired less than two years, your license is Delinquent and may be renewed with required hours and fees. If expired two or more years, it is Null and Void, requiring reapplication and retesting.
2. Submit application: Delinquent CNAs renew through the MQA portal. Null and Void CNAs must reapply, complete fingerprinting, and register with Prometric.
3. Pay fees: $105 if expired under 120 days; $160 if over 120 days. Additional exam and fingerprinting costs apply.
4. Receive approval: Renewals process in about one week; new applications may take longer.
5. Confirm reinstatement: Once approved, your status updates to Active in the Florida Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Florida CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Georgia

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Georgia, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If inactive one year or less, or more than 24 months without eight hours of paid work, retesting is required. If expired three or more years, complete a new program and then retest.
2. Request authorization: Contact Alliant Health Solutions to confirm eligibility and receive approval.
3. Schedule exams: Register with Credentia for the Knowledge and Skills Exams. Three attempts per component are allowed.
4. Confirm reinstatement: After passing, your status updates to Active in the Georgia Nurse Aide Registry within 10 business days.

See the full Georgia CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Hawaii

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Hawaii, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: You must have completed a state-approved NATCEP. If your program is no longer approved, complete a new one.
2. Submit application: File the Hawaii CNA Application under Route 3 – Lapsed/Expired. Include your training certificate, expired certificate number (if available), and payment.
3. Receive authorization: Prometric reviews your application and issues an Authorization to Test. Bring two valid IDs, including one government-issued photo ID with signature.
4. Take exams: Pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams within two years. Up to three attempts are allowed. If unsuccessful, complete a new program.
5. Confirm reinstatement: After passing, your status updates to Active in the Hawaii Nurse Aide Registry and a new certificate is issued.

See the full Hawaii CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Idaho

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Idaho, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: You may reinstate if listed as lapsed and you did not complete eight paid hours in the past 24 months. Retraining is required only if you fail three exam attempts.
2. Request approval: Contact the Idaho Nurse Aide Program by email with your personal and certification details to request approval under Route 5 – Lapsed.
3. Schedule and pay: Register with Prometric for the Knowledge Exam ($29). The Skills Exam is arranged through your training site or evaluator; fees vary.
4. Take exams: Pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams within three attempts. If unsuccessful, complete a new program.
5. Confirm reinstatement: After passing, your status updates to Active in the Idaho Nurse Aide Registry. No separate form is required.

See the full Idaho CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Illinois

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Illinois, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If you have not worked as a CNA for more than 24 consecutive months, your certification is listed as Inactive on the HCWR. To regain active status, complete recertification through Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC).
2. Submit request: Complete the online recertification form. SIUC reviews your record and notifies you of eligibility.
3. Register and schedule: Once approved, purchase and schedule your exam through SIUC. Testing is available statewide.
4. Take exams: Pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams. Three attempts are allowed. If unsuccessful, complete a new program before retesting.
5. Confirm reinstatement: After passing, SIUC updates your status to Active in the HCWR.

See the full Illinois CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Indiana

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Indiana, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired eight months or less, renew online via Access Indiana. If more than eight months, your employer must submit the Expired Renewal Form. If over two years, complete a new 105-hour program and exams.
2. Verify work hours: You must have at least eight hours of paid CNA work in the past 24 months, confirmed by your employer. Without this, retraining and retesting are required.
3. Employer submission: Employers send the renewal form to the Indiana Department of Health.
4. Confirm reinstatement: Once approved, your status updates to Active in the Indiana Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Indiana CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Iowa

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Iowa, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: Certification expires if you have not worked at least eight hours of paid CNA duties in the past 24 months.
2. Submit employer verification: If you worked qualifying hours before expiration, your employer must send a signed letter verifying employment details directly to the registry.
3. Retest if needed: If no employer verification is available, you must retake and pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams.
4. Confirm reinstatement: Once verification or test results are approved, your status updates to Active in the Iowa DCW Registry.

See the full Iowa CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Kansas

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Kansas, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If inactive less than five years, complete a 10-hour refresher course or an RN-administered skills checklist. If inactive five years or more, complete a new 90-hour KDADS-approved program.
2. Submit proof: An RN submits the signed checklist directly to KDADS, or a school submits proof of refresher or training completion.
3. Confirm reinstatement: Once processed, your status updates to Active in the Kansas Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Kansas CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Kentucky

To reinstate your expired SRNA registration in Kentucky, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired because you did not complete at least eight hours of paid work in the past 24 months, reinstate through the Kentucky Board of Nursing (KBN).
2. Submit application: Log in to the Kentucky Nurse Portal and apply for reinstatement. Provide details, contact information, and proof of qualifying work. Private-duty workers must submit the notarized SRNA Private Duty Form.
3. Meet requirements: If work verification is accepted, KBN restores Active status without testing. If no proof, complete a 75-hour program, register with TMU or KCTCS, and pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams.
4. Confirm reinstatement: Once approved, your status updates to Active in the KBN License Lookup.

See the full Kentucky SRNA Registration Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Louisiana

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Louisiana, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: You may reinstate if expired fewer than 24 months and you have not previously tested under Route 2 – Lapsed Less Than 24 Months.
2. Submit application: Complete the Louisiana CNA Examination Application, select Route 2, and include certificate details, a valid photo ID, and the $125 fee.
3. Receive approval: Prometric issues an Admission to Test Letter with your schedule.
4. Take exams: Pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams. Route 2 allows one attempt. If unsuccessful, complete a new program and apply under Route 3.
5. Confirm reinstatement: After passing, Prometric forwards results to LDH, and your status updates to Active in the Louisiana Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Louisiana CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Maine

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Maine, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: You must have at least eight hours of paid CNA work in the past 24 months and no disqualifying annotations. If lacking hours, retraining and retesting are required.
2. Submit application: Apply online through the Regulatory Licensing & Permitting Portal or via the CNA Registry Application form. Indicate reinstatement of an inactive listing and include work verification, photo ID, and background check.
3. Send documents: Submit your application by email, fax, or mail to Maine DHHS, Division of Licensing and Certification.
4. Confirm reinstatement: Processing may take up to 30 days. Once approved, your status updates to Active in the Maine CNA Registry.

See the full Maine CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Maryland

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Maryland, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired more than one year, apply for reinstatement through MBON.
2. Request application: Contact MBON by email or phone to obtain the reinstatement form. It is not available online.
3. Complete background check: All applicants must complete a fingerprint-based CHRC through CJIS. In Maryland, schedule Livescan; out-of-state applicants must request a fingerprint card from MBON and submit it to CJIS.
4. Submit documents: Mail the reinstatement form, CHRC tracking number, fingerprint receipt, and $40 fee to MBON.
5. Confirm reinstatement: Once processed, your status updates to Active in the Maryland Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Maryland CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Massachusetts

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Massachusetts, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If you worked at least eight hours in the past 24 months, you may renew. Otherwise, reinstatement by exam is required.
2. Submit application: Log in or create a TMU account, complete your profile, and apply for reinstatement.
3. Pay exam fees: $30 for the Knowledge Exam and $70 for the Skills Exam ($100 total).
4. Take exams: Schedule and pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams in TMU. You may attempt the Knowledge Exam up to four times and the Skills Exam up to three. If unsuccessful, complete a new program before reapplying.
5. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, your status updates to Active in the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Massachusetts CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Michigan

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Michigan, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired under 24 months, renew in MI-NATES by attesting to 40 hours of CNA work and 24 hours of CE, including abuse, neglect, and care planning. If expired more than 24 months—or requirements unmet—you must retrain and retest as new.
2. Complete training (if required): Enroll in a Michigan-approved 75-hour CNA program with at least 16 hours of clinical practice.
3. Pass exams: Take the Knowledge and Skills Exams through Headmaster. Results are reported to MI-NATES.
4. Apply in MI-NATES: Log in via MILogin, select “Renew My Nurse Aide Registration” if eligible, or “Apply for New Registration” if retrained and retested. Complete, e-sign, and pay the $40 fee.
5. Confirm reinstatement: Once approved, your status updates to Active in MI-NATES and you can print your certificate.

See the full Michigan CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Minnesota

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Minnesota, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired over 24 months, reinstatement requires testing. Confirm status in the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry.
2. Register for testing: Contact an approved site to schedule both exams. The site will create your TMU account.
3. Complete TMU profile: Log in, update your password and demographics, and submit corrections if needed.
4. Take exams: Pass the Knowledge Exam (70 questions, 74% required) and Skills Exam (3–4 tasks, 80% required). Exams are given by Headmaster at regional, facility, or remote sites.
5. Confirm reinstatement: After passing, your status updates to Active in the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Minnesota CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Mississippi

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Mississippi, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired more than 24 months, you must complete Reactivation by Examination. This is a one-time option.
2. Submit application: Apply via TMU under Reactivation by Examination. Provide your name, SSN, and email to get login credentials.
3. Complete TMU profile: Log in with temporary credentials, update your password, and finish your profile.
4. Pay exam fees: $35 Knowledge and $100 Skills ($135 total). Pay online or use Sponsor Payment if employer-covered.
5. Schedule exams: Select events in TMU. Knowledge Exams may be remote; Skills are in person.
6. Take exams: Pass the Knowledge and Skills Exams. Only one attempt is allowed. If unsuccessful, retraining is required.
7. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, your status updates to Active in the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Mississippi CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Missouri

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Missouri, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired five years or more, complete new training and exams.
2. Complete training: Enroll in a Missouri-approved program with 75 hours classroom and 100 hours clinical. After completion, your instructor enters your record in TMU.
3. Pay exam fees: $30 Knowledge and $70 Skills ($100 total). Audio Knowledge Exam is available for an extra $10.
4. Take exams: Schedule in TMU and pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams (minimum 80% required). Three attempts allowed within one year.
5. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, your status updates to Active in the Missouri Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Missouri CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Montana

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Montana, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired, you must complete a new state-approved program and retake exams.
2. Complete training: Enroll in a Montana-approved program. The provider enters your record in TMU, making you exam-eligible.
3. Pay exam fees: $20 Knowledge and $77 Skills. Payment and scheduling are managed in TMU.
4. Take exams: Pass the Knowledge Exam (72 questions, 75% required) and Skills Exam (3–4 tasks, 80% required with key steps).
5. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, submit the CNA by Exam application in the BOUNDS portal. Your status updates to Active in the Montana Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Montana CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Nebraska

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Nebraska, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If you have not worked in 24 months, your certification is lapsed and retesting is required. Nurse aides trained before 1989 in a 30-hour course are not eligible and must complete a new 75-hour program.
2. Schedule testing: Contact an approved recompetency site to schedule both exams.
3. Take exams: Pass the Knowledge Exam (50 questions, 70% required) and Skills Exam (six tasks, 70% required with all critical steps). Three attempts per exam allowed. If unsuccessful, retraining is required.
4. Confirm reinstatement: Within three weeks of passing, your status updates to Active in the Nebraska Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Nebraska CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Nevada

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Nevada, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If you did not complete 24 CE hours or 40 paid CNA hours in the past two years, your certification has lapsed.
2. Submit application: Log in to the Nevada Nurse Portal, start renewal, and indicate you do not meet work requirements. Choose to retest or retrain.
3. Complete requirements: If retesting, follow NSBN instructions and pass both exams within one year. If retraining, complete a program and submit proof.
4. Submit fingerprints: Provide fingerprint records if requested by NSBN.
5. Pay exam fees: $50 Knowledge and $90 Skills.
6. Confirm reinstatement: Once requirements are met, your status updates to Active in the Nevada Nurse Aide Registry. Reinstatement must be completed within one year of application.

See the full Nevada CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

New Hampshire

To reinstate your expired LNA license in New Hampshire, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired less than one year, submit the Reinstatement Application. If expired one year or more, reapply as a new applicant via the Online Portal.
2. Submit materials: Include the signed application, $63 fee, and either 200 supervised work hours in the past two years or passing exam results. Proof of 24 CE hours may also be required.
3. Mail application: Send to OPLC, Board of Nursing, 7 Eagle Square, Concord, NH 03301.
4. Confirm reinstatement: Once approved, your status updates to Active in the New Hampshire LNA Registry. Applications not finalized within 120 days are purged.

See the full New Hampshire LNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

New Jersey

To reinstate your expired CNA license in New Jersey, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired and not eligible for renewal, you must complete a new 90-hour program. Contact NJDOH to confirm if testing without retraining is allowed.
2. Submit application: Send your application and fees to PSI, and schedule fingerprinting through IdentoGO.
3. Take exams: Pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams. Retraining is required if unsuccessful.
4. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed and background cleared, your status updates to Active in the New Jersey Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full New Jersey CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

New Mexico

To reinstate your expired CNA license in New Mexico, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired under 24 months, you may retest without retraining. If expired over 24 months but with two years of nursing-related work, you may retest with employer verification. Without this, complete a new program.
2. Submit application: Apply in TMU under Reactivation by Exam. Approved applicants receive login credentials by email.
3. Complete TMU profile: Reset your password and enter demographics. Your name must match your ID and Social Security card.
4. Pay exam fees: $100 Skills and $40 (written) or $45 (oral) Knowledge.
5. Take exams: Pass the Knowledge Exam (60 questions, 74% required) and Skills Exam (3–4 tasks, 80% required) within six months. Retraining is required if unsuccessful.
6. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, your status updates to Active in TMU and the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full New Mexico CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

New York

To reinstate your expired CNA license in New York, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If you did not work at least eight hours under RN supervision in the past 24 months, your certification is lapsed and you must retake the exam.
2. Submit application: Complete the CNA Exam Application and select Route 6 – Trained and Lapsed or Route 7 – Lapsed—Other. Include your expired certificate number.
3. Pay fees: Attach a certified check or money order payable to “NY Commissioner of Health, NYNA.”
4. Receive authorization: Prometric emails your Authorization to Test. Do not schedule before receiving it.
5. Take exams: Choose a site from the official list. Pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams within three attempts. Retraining is required if unsuccessful.
6. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, your status updates to Active in the New York Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full New York CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

North Carolina

To reinstate your expired CNA license (Nurse Aide I certification) in North Carolina, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired, you must complete a new Nurse Aide I program and retake the exam to be relisted. Confirm inactive status in the registry.
2. Complete training: Enroll in a state-approved program (minimum 75 hours). The provider submits exam eligibility to Credentia.
3. Access CNA365: Once approved, log in, update your profile, and ensure your legal name matches your ID and Social Security card.
4. Schedule and pay fees: Register in CNA365 to schedule exams. Knowledge may be online; Skills are in person.
5. Take exams: Pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams within three attempts. Retraining is required if unsuccessful.
6. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, your status updates to Active in the North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full North Carolina CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

North Dakota

To reinstate your expired CNA license in North Dakota, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: You may reinstate if previously certified in North Dakota, completed an approved program, and did not earn certification by challenge. Challenged candidates must complete a new program.
2. Submit application: Apply in TMU under Reactivation by Examination and upload training proof.
3. Complete TMU profile: Log in with temporary credentials, reset your password, and update demographics.
4. Schedule exam: Select a test site from the list and set your exam date.
5. Take exams: Pass the Knowledge Exam (72 questions, 90 minutes, 75% required) and Skills Exam (3–4 tasks, 80% required with all key steps).
6. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, your status updates to Active in the North Dakota Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full North Dakota CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Ohio

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Ohio, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If you did not meet the 24-month work requirement, you must retest.
2. Register for testing: Create a TMU account, select a site, and pay exam fees.
3. Complete training (if required): If your NATCEP expired, complete a new 75-hour program with 16 clinical hours.
4. Take exams: Pass the Knowledge Exam (75 questions) and Skills Exam (five assigned tasks including hand hygiene).
5. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, your status updates to Active in the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Ohio STNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Oklahoma

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Oklahoma, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: You may retest if expired more than two but less than three years ago without eight hours of qualifying work. If expired three years or longer, retraining is required.
2. Submit application: Complete Form ODH 841 – CNA Retest Application. LTC aides may email without a fee; others must mail with a $15 fee.
3. Receive authorization: Once approved, you will receive a Retest Authorization Letter, required at the test site.
4. Schedule and take exams: Use the letter to schedule the Knowledge Exam (60 questions, 90 minutes) and Skills Exam (3–5 tasks, 31–40 minutes). Bring two valid IDs, including a photo ID.
5. Confirm reinstatement: Results process within 30 days; status updates in the Oklahoma Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Oklahoma CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Oregon

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Oregon, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: Reinstatement is required if you did not complete 400 hours of qualifying work.
2. Submit application: Log in to the OSBN Nurse Portal and file the CNA Exam – Retake with the $106 fee.
3. Complete fingerprinting: Schedule and submit fingerprints with the $70.50 fee.
4. Receive authorization: Wait for authorization in the portal before scheduling exams.
5. Schedule and take exams: Use TMU to schedule and pass the Knowledge Exam (80 questions, 73% required) and Skills Exam (3–4 tasks, 80% required).
6. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, your certification updates to Active in the Oregon Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Oregon CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Pennsylvania

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Pennsylvania, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: Reinstatement is required if you did not work at least one documented day (eight hours) in the past 24 months.
2. Submit application: Reapply under Route E-3 for one attempt to pass both exams. If unsuccessful, retraining is required under Route E-0.
3. Pay fees: $50 Written/Oral and $85 Skills ($135 total). Employers must cover costs in long-term care facilities; reimbursement may apply if hired within 12 months.
4. Schedule exams: Log in to CNA365 to select test dates. Knowledge may be online or in person; Skills is in person only.
5. Take exams: Pass the Written/Oral Exam (70 questions, 2 hours) and Skills Exam (five tasks, 30 minutes). Results post in CNA365 within hours.
6. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, your status updates to Active in the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry. You also receive an electronic Registry Card by email.

See the full Pennsylvania CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Rhode Island

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Rhode Island, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired and no qualifying work in the past 24 months, retraining and retesting are required.
2. Complete training: Enroll in a state-approved 120-hour program (80 classroom, 40 clinical). The provider must submit proof to Credentia.
3. Register for exams: Apply in Credentia and pay $55 Written/Oral and $110 Skills. Exams must be scheduled at least 10 days in advance.
4. Take exams: Pass the Written/Oral Exam (70 questions or 60 + 10 comprehension) and Skills Exam (five tasks) within one year of training.
5. Apply for license: Submit the Nursing Assistant License Application with $35 fee, valid ID, and a recent BCI.
6. Confirm reinstatement: Once approved, your record updates to Active in the Rhode Island Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Rhode Island CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

South Carolina

To reinstate your expired CNA license in South Carolina, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired over 24 months, complete a new state-approved program (100 hours including 40 clinical).
2. Submit application: Apply in CNA365 under Route E1 and upload training documentation.
3. Pay exam fees: $45 Written/Oral and $95 Skills. Employers must cover fees for candidates employed by or offered a job in certified facilities.
4. Take exams: Schedule and pass both exams in CNA365. Success required within three attempts and two years of training.
5. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, your record updates to Active in the South Carolina Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full South Carolina CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

South Dakota

To reinstate your expired CNA license in South Dakota, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: Reinstatement without testing is allowed if you worked at least 12 hours in the past 24 months and completed 24 hours of in-service training. Otherwise, a competency evaluation is required.
2. Submit application: File the Reinstatement Application if testing is not required, or the Competency Evaluation Reinstatement Application if it is.
3. Wait for processing: Applications are reviewed in 5–7 business days. If testing is needed, register through TMU.
4. Take exams: Pass the Knowledge Exam (80 questions, 90 minutes, 75% required) and Skills Exam (3–4 tasks, all key steps required).
5. Confirm reinstatement: Once approved, your status is updated to Active in the South Dakota Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full South Dakota CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Tennessee

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Tennessee, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: You may reinstate without retraining if you verify at least eight hours of paid CNA work in a licensed or certified facility for each year since expiration.
2. Submit verification: Provide pay stubs, payroll records, or notarized verification forms for every year since expiration. Upload in TMU for approval.
3. Retrain and retest if ineligible: If you cannot verify work for each year, complete a state-approved program and pass both exams.
4. Confirm reinstatement: Once verification is accepted or exams are passed, your status updates to Active in the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Tennessee CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Texas

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Texas, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If expired and lacking qualifying work, reinstatement requires retesting.
2. Submit application: Log in to TULIP and complete the Request to Retest for Nurse Aides in Expired Status. Upload a government-issued ID and DPS background check results.
3. Await review: HHSC reviews your application and emails testing instructions if approved.
4. Schedule exams: Register with Prometric. Fees: $31 Written, $41 Oral, $89 Skills.
5. Take exams: Pass the Written Exam (60 questions) and Skills Exam (five tasks including handwashing and indirect care). Three attempts allowed within 24 months.
6. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, Prometric reports results to HHSC, and your status updates to Active in the Texas Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Texas CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Utah

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Utah, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: Expired 0–6 months: submit renewal with 200 work hours and late fees. Expired 6–24 months: apply for reinstatement and retake both exams. Expired over 24 months: complete a new program.
2. Submit application: File the correct form for your lapse period. Wait for UNAR approval before exams.
3. Pay exam fees: $55 Written and $55 Manual Skills.
4. Take exams: Pass both within one year of approval. Three attempts allowed. Retraining required if unsuccessful.
5. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, your certification updates to Active in the Utah Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Utah CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Vermont

To reinstate your expired LNA license in Vermont, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: If you did not complete 400 hours of LNA work in the past two years, retraining, retesting, and a background check are required.
2. Complete training: Enroll in a Vermont-approved program. Nursing students may qualify if their school submits the Nursing Student Verification Form.
3. Submit application: Apply through the OPR Licensing System. Once approved, you receive an Authorization to Test.
4. Take exams: Pass the Written Exam (60 questions, 90 minutes) and Skills Exam (four tasks, 30 minutes). If you fail one part, you may retake only that section.
5. Complete background check: Submit a notarized release form, obtain your Fingerprint Authorization Certificate, and complete fingerprinting.
6. Confirm reinstatement: After passing exams and the background check, your license updates to Active in the Vermont LNA Registry.

See the full Vermont LNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Virginia

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Virginia, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: You may reinstate if previously listed on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry, have no findings of abuse or neglect, and completed at least eight hours of paid CNA work within two years before expiration and two years of application. Otherwise, exams are required.
2. Submit application: File the reinstatement form with the Virginia Board of Nursing. Include the $30 fee and an Employment Verification Form signed by a nurse.
3. Provide documents: Submit materials for name changes, criminal history, or out-of-state discipline if applicable.
4. Await review: Processing takes 30–45 business days. If approved, your certification is reinstated. Otherwise, exams are required.
5. Take exams: Pass both the Knowledge and Skills Exams as directed. Submit results to finalize reinstatement.
6. Confirm reinstatement: Once approved, your status updates to Active in the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry. Certificates are not issued.

See the full Virginia CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Washington

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Washington, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: Expired under one year: file renewal with $95 fee and $50 penalty. Expired 1–3 years: file Expired Certification Activation Application with $95 renewal, $50 penalty, and $52 reissue fee. Expired over three years: complete a program and pass the exam, unless active on another state’s OBRA registry.
2. Submit application: Provide demographics, employment history, certifications, CE or competency records, and a signed attestation.
3. Prepare fees and documents: Pay by check or money order to the Department of Health. Include proof of name change, CE, or other documents if applicable.
4. Mail application: Send to Department of Health, Nursing Assistant Credentialing, P.O. Box 1099, Olympia, WA 98507-1099.
5. Complete background check: If you have a Washington criminal record or lived in another state, you may need a fingerprint-based background check.
6. Confirm reinstatement: The DOH reviews applications and updates your record. You may not work until listed as Active in the registry.

See the full Washington CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

West Virginia

To reinstate your expired CNA license in West Virginia, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: You may reinstate if expired less than five years, you were previously listed, and have no findings of abuse or neglect. If expired more than five years, complete a new program.
2. Complete refresher course: Enroll in a state-approved refresher (16 hours). Submit the application two weeks before the course with the $200 fee.
3. Pass exam: After training, pass both exams within 60 days. Up to three attempts allowed within six months.
4. Submit results: Results are sent to OHFLAC. Once approved, your license is reinstated for two years.

See the full West Virginia CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Wisconsin

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Wisconsin, follow these steps:

1. Apply for testing: Submit your application in TMU. Ensure details match your ID.
2. Pay exam fees: $137.75 for written + skills, or $143.00 for audio + skills.
3. Take the exam: Complete both the Knowledge and Skills Exams. Three attempts allowed within one year. If unsuccessful, retraining is required.
4. Confirm active status: Once passed, your certification updates to Active in the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry.

See the full Wisconsin CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Wyoming

To reinstate your expired CNA license in Wyoming, follow these steps:

1. Check eligibility: You may reinstate with 400 CNA work hours in the past two years, or 200–399 hours plus 15 CE hours, or fewer than 200 hours plus 30 CE hours. Otherwise, retesting is required. If expired over five years, complete a new WSBN-approved program before testing.
2. Submit application: Apply in TMU under Reactivation by Examination. Pay exam fees and the $50 reactivation fee if required by WSBN.
3. Take exams: Pass the Knowledge Exam ($32 written or $42 oral) and Skills Exam ($95). Pay the $60 reinstatement fee to WSBN. Both must be passed to regain Active status.
4. Confirm reinstatement: Once passed, your record updates to Active in the Wyoming Nurse Aide Registry. Verify through WSBN License Lookup before working.

See the full Wyoming CNA License Guide for renewal, transfer, and verification details.

Conclusion

Reinstating your CNA license restores active status and work eligibility. Each state sets its own requirements, which may include employment verification, continuing education, exams, or completing a new training program. Follow your state’s process and confirm Active status in the Nurse Aide Registry before returning to work.

Amanda JordanAmanda writes clear, regulatory-focused content that guides and supports healthcare professionals in their practice.