Texas Certified Nursing Assistant License
Texas HHSC
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
1.5 to 2 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 — $0
How to Apply
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Complete a Texas-Approved Nurse Aide Training Program (NATCEP) ▾Enroll in and successfully complete a Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) approved by the Texas Health and Human Services (HHS).
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Create an Account and Register for the Competency Exam with Prometric ▾Visit the Prometric Texas Nurse Aide Portal and follow the instructions to create a candidate account and schedule your Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation Exam (NACEP).
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Pass the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation Exam ▾Successfully complete both the written/oral and skills portions of the NACEP administered by Prometric. This exam tests your knowledge and practical skills as a nurse aide.
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Be Listed on the Texas Nurse Aide Registry ▾Upon passing the NACEP, Prometric will report your results to the Texas Health and Human Services (HHS), and you will be automatically added to the Texas Nurse Aide Registry within 7-10 business days. No separate application is required for initial listing.
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Maintain Active Registry Status ▾To remain active on the registry, you must work for pay performing nursing-related duties under the supervision of a licensed nurse for at least 16 hours within a 24-month period, and renew your certification every two years.
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
1.5 to 2 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Texas HHSC for current transfer requirements.
Steps
-
Submit Your Application ▾Apply through the Texas HHSC.
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Provide License Verification ▾Texas 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.
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Submit Your State Competency Exam Results ▾Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.
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Complete Fingerprinting and Background Screening ▾Texas 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 Texas can add 2-4 weeks to your processing time.
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Await Board Processing ▾Plan for a processing timeline of about 1.5 to 2 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
Texas HHSC
Keeping Your License Active
Texas Certified Nursing Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Texas HHSC for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|
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 many hours of training do I need to be a CNA in Texas?
▾
Texas requires 100 hours of training: 60 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical practice in a state-approved NATCEP.
How much does Texas CNA endorsement cost?
▾
There is no application fee for CNA endorsement in Texas. However, background check fees may apply.
Is a background check required?
▾
Yes, a fingerprint-based background check is required in Texas.
How long does it take to transfer my CNA certification to Texas?
▾
Most endorsement applications take 4 to 8 Weeks.
Can I start working in Texas while waiting?
▾
Check with the state board about temporary practice permits while your endorsement is being processed.
Board Info
Sources