Delaware Certified Nursing Assistant License
Delaware DHSS
Total Fee
$30
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
What You'll Need
- Certificate of Training Completion — Proof of completing a 150-hour state-approved NATCEP within the last 24 months.
- Government-Issued Photo ID — A valid driver's license or state ID showing your full legal name and date of birth.
- Social Security Card — Original Social Security card required for identification at the testing center.
- NPDB Self-Query Report — Required for reciprocity applicants. Must be submitted in the original, sealed envelope from the National Practitioner Data Bank. Request NPDB Query
How to Apply
-
Complete Training ▾Complete a Delaware-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) consisting of at least 150 hours (75 classroom and 75 clinical).
View Approved Programs -
Submit Exam Application ▾Apply for the CNA competency exam through Prometric. You can apply online or via mail with the required fees.
-
Schedule Fingerprinting ▾Schedule a criminal background check through IdentoGO. You must use the specific service code provided by your employer or the registry.
Schedule Fingerprinting -
Pass Competency Exams ▾Pass both the written (or oral) knowledge test and the clinical skills evaluation administered by Prometric.
-
Verify Registry Status ▾Once you pass both exams, Prometric will automatically add you to the Delaware Nurse Aide Registry. Verify your status online.
Verify Certification
Total Fee
$30
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Delaware DHSS for current transfer requirements.
Steps
-
Verify Eligibility ▾Ensure you hold a current, active CNA license in another state with no findings of abuse or neglect.
-
Request NPDB Self-Query ▾Order a self-query from the National Practitioner Data Bank. Do NOT open the envelope when it arrives; it must remain sealed.
Order NPDB Report -
Complete Reciprocity Application ▾Fill out the Delaware Nurse Aide Reciprocity Application, including the employer verification section.
-
Submit Fee and Documents ▾Mail the completed application, $30 fee (check/money order to State of Delaware), and the sealed NPDB report to the DHCQ office.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years (on September 30th of odd years)
Compact
No
Board
Delaware DHSS
Keeping Your License Active
Delaware Certified Nursing Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years (on September 30th of odd years). Contact the Delaware DHSS for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $30 |
| Endorsement application | $30 |
Slow Downs
Opened NPDB Envelope
▾
Reciprocity applications are rejected if the National Practitioner Data Bank envelope has been opened or tampered with.
Missing Notarization
▾
Employer or training program verification forms for reciprocity must be notarized to be accepted.
Incorrect Fingerprint Service Code
▾
Using the wrong service code on IdentoGO will result in the background check being sent to the wrong agency, requiring a new appointment and fee.
Lapsed Employment Verification
▾
Failure to provide proof of 64 hours of nursing-related work for pay within the 24-month renewal period will delay recertification.
Questions
How many hours of training are required in Delaware?
▾
Delaware requires a minimum of 150 hours, consisting of 75 hours of classroom instruction and 75 hours of clinical training.
How do I renew my Delaware CNA certification?
▾
Renewals are completed every 24 months through the Relias Academy portal. You must complete 24 hours of CEUs and 64 hours of work experience.
What are the specific CEU requirements for renewal?
▾
The 24 hours of continuing education must include 6 hours of dementia training and 2 hours of resident abuse prevention.
Can I work as a CNA before I am certified?
▾
You may work as a 'nursing assistant' for up to 90 days after completing your training program while awaiting your exam and certification.
Is there a fee for CNA renewal?
▾
Yes, there is a $25 renewal fee payable through the Relias Academy portal during the recertification process.
Board Info
Sources
State statutes