How Long Does CNA Certification Last?

A Certified Nursing Assistant can complete a 6-12 week CNA program and receive a certificate from an accredited board to work in any health care institution such as hospitals, clinics and nursing homes.  The basic nursing skills such as infection control, basic anatomy and nursing skills are explained and once the certification exam is taken, you can launch into a career as a certified nurse.

CNA certification is valid for a period of two years and if you have worked for at least 150 hours in that period, you can apply for recertification in the same place you received your certificate. Your date expires two years from the last date of your birthday. Make sure you allow for at least 2 weeks for processing.  Some states may require you to take a short test and if you have not worked for the stipulated period, you may have to take a refresher course and pass an exam to get your certificate.

What is Certified Nursing Assistant Recertification?

Certified Nursing assistant recertification is a way of keeping updated with the latest findings.  With recent technological advancements in the medical field, many new medicines and types of treatments are being carried out and it is essential to be familiar with this in order to be of valuable service in this rewarding and promising career.

If you have taken a break in the two years, you will have to do a refresher course and pass the exam again.  When you apply for certification, check the exact requirements as some states may require that you complete 200 hours.

You should fill up the appropriate recertification firms with your current employer and then mail it to the state board. Recertification details can be downloaded from the websites of the state board.

CNA Licensing Formalities

A Certified Nursing Assistant has to apply for the CNA licensing exam once the course is completed.  Once you pass the clinical exam and the theoretical exam from an accredited institute you should fill out the form and send it to the Nurse Aide Registry.  You will have to submit to a medical and background check for the cna license. Licensing will take about four to eight weeks for processing. Since each state has their one requirement of continuing education, work requirements and fees, ensure that you check this out before you send in your application for the license.

How to Apply For Your Cna License

Are you wondering how to apply for your CNA license? You will first have to fill out the application form at the Nursing Aide Registry licensing authority from the local state where you plan to work, sign and notarize it. Send it to the local division of the State Licensing Office. You may have to attach some recent attested photographs to the form, along with the registration fee in the form of a demand draft. Your local board of nursing will also have to approve your application before you prove eligible for licensing. Once you become a CNA, you can pass further examinations to become a Registered Nurse or a Licensed Practical Nurse and enjoy a rewarding career providing assistance as a health care provider.