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Iowa Certified Nursing Assistant License

Iowa Dept of Inspections and Appeals

Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
2 to 4 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.
  • Application fee — $0

How to Apply

  1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program ▾
    Finish an Iowa-approved CNA training program, usually 75 hours long.
  2. Pass the Competency Exam ▾
    Pass both the written and clinical skills portions of the Iowa nurse aide exam.
  3. Submit Your Application ▾
    Apply for certification, complete any required background check steps, and pay the required fees.
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
2 to 4 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available

Transfer License

Contact the Iowa Dept of Inspections and Appeals for current transfer requirements.

Steps

  1. Provide License Verification ▾
    Iowa 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.
  2. Provide Proof of Training ▾
    Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.
  3. Submit Your State Competency Exam Results ▾
    Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.
  4. Await Board Processing ▾
    Plan for a processing timeline of about 2 to 4 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
Compact
No
Board
Iowa Dept of Inspections and Appeals

Keeping Your License Active

Iowa Certified Nursing Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Iowa Dept of Inspections and Appeals for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Fees

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Slow Downs

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 Iowa CNA endorsement cost? ▾
There is no application fee for CNA endorsement in Iowa. However, background check fees may apply.
Is a background check required? ▾
No, fingerprints are generally not required for CNA endorsement in Iowa.
How long does it take to transfer my CNA certification to Iowa? ▾
Most endorsement applications take 2 to 4 Weeks.
Can I start working in Iowa while waiting? ▾
Check with the state board about temporary practice permits while your endorsement is being processed.

Board Info

Iowa Dept of Inspections and Appeals
Phone(515) 281-4115
Sources