Kentucky — rolling green horse country

Kentucky Certified Nursing Assistant License

Kentucky Board of Nursing

Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
1 to 2 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available

What You'll Need

  • Social Security Card — An original, non-laminated Social Security card is required at the test site for identification.
  • Government-Issued Photo ID — A valid driver's license, state ID, or passport with a signature.
  • Proof of Training — A training completion certificate or roster entry from a Kentucky-approved program.
  • Background Check — Employment-based background check via KARES or IdentoGO (Service Code 27GKJR) as required by facilities.

How to Apply

  1. Complete Training
    Enroll in and complete a state-approved 75-hour State Registered Nurse Aide (SRNA) training program, which includes 16 hours of clinical practice.
    SRNA Requirements
  2. Register for Exam
    Create an account on the Headmaster TMU portal to schedule your written and skills competency evaluations through KCTCS.
    Register for Exam
  3. Pass Competency Evaluation
    Pass both the written (knowledge) and skills portions of the exam. You have three attempts within one year of completing your training.
  4. Automatic Registry Entry
    Upon passing, KCTCS automatically submits your results to the Kentucky Board of Nursing. Your name will be added to the registry within 30 days.
  5. Create Nurse Portal Account
    Create an account in the KBN Nurse Portal (ORBS) to manage your certification, update your address, and handle future renewals.
    KBN Nurse Portal
  6. Verify Certification
    Confirm your active status on the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry using the public verification portal.
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
1 to 2 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available

Transfer License

Contact the Kentucky Board of Nursing for current transfer requirements.

Apply to transfer

Steps

  1. Create KBN Account
    Register for an account in the Kentucky Board of Nursing Nurse Portal.
    Nurse Portal Login
  2. Submit Reciprocity Application
    Select 'Apply for a License' and choose the 'SRNA Reciprocity Application' from the dashboard.
  3. Upload Documents
    Upload copies of your current out-of-state CNA certification, Social Security card, and photo ID.
  4. Verification Process
    KBN will verify your status with your home state. There is currently no fee for SRNA reciprocity in Kentucky.
    Reciprocity Details
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Kentucky Board of Nursing

Keeping Your License Active

Kentucky Certified Nursing Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Kentucky Board of Nursing for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Renew on the board site

Fees

ItemAmount

Slow Downs

Laminated SSN Card
Testing centers will reject candidates with laminated Social Security cards, requiring a re-scheduling fee and a new card from the SSA.
Name Discrepancies
If the name on your ID does not exactly match the name on your training roster or SSN card, your testing or registry entry will be delayed.
Expired Training Window
Failing to pass both exam parts within one year of training completion requires repeating the entire 75-hour course.
Incomplete Renewal Documentation
Failing to upload proof of 8 hours of paid work (like a paystub or W-2) during the 60-day renewal window will cause the certification to lapse.

Questions

What is an SRNA?
In Kentucky, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are officially titled State Registered Nurse Aides (SRNAs).
How do I renew my SRNA certification?
Renew every 24 months through the KBN Nurse Portal by providing proof of at least 8 hours of paid nursing-related work. There is no renewal fee.
Can I work while my application is pending?
Nursing home employees may work provisionally for up to 120 days while completing the testing and registry process, provided they are enrolled in or have completed training.
How much does the SRNA exam cost?
Fees vary by KCTCS location but typically range from $115 to $135 for the combined written and skills tests.
Does Kentucky require continuing education for SRNAs?
No, Kentucky does not require specific CE hours for SRNA renewal, only the 8-hour work requirement.

Board Info

Kentucky Board of Nursing
Sources