North Carolina Certified Nursing Assistant License
North Carolina Board of Nursing
Total Fee
$24
Processing Time
1 to 2 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
What You'll Need
- Social Security Card — A copy of your actual, signed Social Security card is required for registry identification.
- Government-Issued Photo ID — A valid, unexpired driver's license or state ID that matches the name on your Social Security card.
- Training Completion Certificate — Proof of completing a state-approved 75-hour training program within the last 24 months.
- Employment Verification Form — Required for renewals; must be signed by a Registered Nurse (RN) to verify 8 hours of work.
How to Apply
-
Complete State-Approved Training ▾Enroll in and successfully complete a North Carolina state-approved Nurse Aide I training program consisting of at least 75 hours.
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Create a Credentia Account ▾Create an account on the Credentia CNA365 platform to manage your application and testing process.
Sign Up for CNA365 -
Register for the NNAAP Exam ▾Submit your application for testing through CNA365 and pay the required examination fees for both the Written/Oral and Skills exams.
Register for Exam -
Pass the Competency Evaluation ▾Successfully pass both the Written (or Oral) and Skills components of the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam.
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Verify Registry Listing ▾Once passed, your name will be added to the North Carolina Nurse Aide I Registry within 2-5 business days. Verify your status online.
Verify Listing
Total Fee
$24
Processing Time
1 to 2 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the North Carolina Board of Nursing for current transfer requirements.
Apply to transferSteps
-
Verify Eligibility ▾Ensure you are currently listed in active and good standing on another state's nurse aide registry.
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Complete Reciprocity Application ▾Download and complete the Nurse Aide I Registry Reciprocity Application form.
Download Reciprocity Form -
Submit Required Documentation ▾Email or mail the completed application along with copies of your Social Security card and photo ID to the DHSR Registry Office.
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Wait for DHSR Review ▾The Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR) typically reviews reciprocity applications within 10 business days.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
North Carolina Board of Nursing
Keeping Your License Active
North Carolina Certified Nursing Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the North Carolina Board of Nursing for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $24 |
| Endorsement application | $24 |
Slow Downs
Name/Address Mismatch
▾
If the name on your ID does not exactly match your Social Security card or registry listing, processing will be halted until legal proof of name change is provided.
Incomplete Renewal Forms
▾
Renewals require both the aide's online form and the RN supervisor's verification form. Missing either will prevent renewal.
Unsigned Social Security Card
▾
DHSR requires a copy of a SIGNED Social Security card; submitting an unsigned card is a frequent cause for rejection.
Questions
Is there a fee to be listed on the North Carolina Nurse Aide I Registry?
▾
No, there is no fee for the initial listing or for the biennial renewal of a Nurse Aide I registration. However, fees are required for the competency exams administered by Credentia.
How do I renew my CNA certification in North Carolina?
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You must work at least 8 hours for pay performing nursing-related duties under the supervision of an RN during your 24-month listing period. Renewal is completed online via the DHSR website.
What is the difference between Nurse Aide I and Nurse Aide II?
▾
Nurse Aide I is managed by the NCDHHS and covers basic care. Nurse Aide II is managed by the NC Board of Nursing and involves more complex tasks. You must be an active Nurse Aide I to become a Nurse Aide II.
Does North Carolina require fingerprinting for CNAs?
▾
The state registry (Nurse Aide I) does not require fingerprints for listing. However, individual employers like nursing homes are required by law to conduct criminal background checks, which may include fingerprinting.
Board Info
Sources