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
- Proof of Training — Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.
- State Competency Exam Results — Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.
- Fingerprint background check — through IdentoGO (IDEMIA)
- Application fee — $30
How to Apply
-
Complete an Approved Training Program ▾Successfully complete a Delaware-approved Certified Nursing Assistant training program. For reciprocity applicants, hold an active and good standing CNA certification from another state.
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Apply Online via DENIS ▾Create an account or log in to DENIS, Delaware's Enhanced Notification & Information System. Complete the online application for CNA certification (by Examination or by Reciprocity) and pay the application fee.
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Undergo a Criminal Background Check ▾Submit fingerprints for a state and federal criminal background check as instructed during the online application process. Detailed instructions for fingerprinting will be provided by the Board.
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Pass the Competency Examination (if by Examination) ▾For initial certification by examination, register for and pass the Delaware CNA competency examination. The Board will provide information on scheduling the exam upon receipt of your application.
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Receive Certification ▾Once all requirements, including the application, background check, and (if applicable) examination results, are reviewed and approved, the Delaware Board of Nursing will issue your CNA 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
-
Submit Your Application ▾Apply through the Delaware DHSS. The application fee is $30.
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Provide License Verification ▾Delaware requires official verification of your active out-of-state license. This must be sent directly to the board from your current state board or its official online verification system before your file can be considered complete.
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Provide Proof of Training ▾Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.
-
Submit Your State Competency Exam Results ▾Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.
-
Complete Fingerprinting and Background Screening ▾Delaware requires a criminal background check for all applicants. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail. Completing prints outside Delaware can add 2-4 weeks to your processing time.
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Await Board Processing ▾Plan for a processing timeline of about 4 to 6 Weeks once your file is complete. If you need to start working immediately, most states do not offer temporary practice authorization for CNAs during the endorsement process. Contact the state nurse aide registry directly for current policies on practice authorization while your application is pending.
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
Fingerprinting delays
▾
Out-of-state prints can add 2-4 weeks to your timeline.
Missing or incomplete documents
▾
Have all your documents ready before starting the application to avoid processing delays.
Application errors
▾
Double-check that your name matches across all documents exactly. Mismatches are a common reason for delays.
Questions
How much does Delaware CNA endorsement cost?
▾
The endorsement application fee is $30. Additional costs may include background check fees.
Is a background check required?
▾
Yes, a fingerprint-based background check is required in Delaware.
How long does it take to transfer my CNA certification to Delaware?
▾
Most endorsement applications take 2 to 4 Weeks.
Can I start working in Delaware while waiting?
▾
Check with the state board about temporary practice permits while your endorsement is being processed.
Board Info
Sources