Hawaii — Na Pali coast from above

Hawaii Certified Nursing Assistant License

Hawaii Dept of Health

Total Fee
$25
Processing Time
2 to 3 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available

What You'll Need

  • Hawaii Nurse Aide Testing Application — The official application form for initial certification or reciprocity.
  • Training Completion Certificate — Proof of completing a 100-hour state-approved training program.
  • Government-Issued Photo ID — A valid, non-expired ID such as a driver's license or passport.
  • Social Security Card — Required for identity verification during the application and exam process.
  • Proof of Employment (for Renewal/Reciprocity) — Verification of at least 8 hours of paid nursing-related work in the last 24 months.

How to Apply

  1. Complete State-Approved Training
    Complete a Hawaii state-approved nurse aide training program consisting of at least 100 hours (30 classroom and 70 clinical).
    View Approved Programs
  2. Undergo Background Check
    Register and schedule a fingerprint-based background check through Fieldprint Hawaii using the appropriate employer or state code.
    Schedule Fingerprinting
  3. Submit Exam Application
    Download and complete the Hawaii Nurse Aide Testing Application from Prometric. Mail the form with the required fees and training certificate.
  4. Receive Authorization to Test (ATT)
    Once Prometric processes your application, you will receive an ATT letter with instructions on how to schedule your exam date.
  5. Pass the Competency Exam
    Pass both the Knowledge (Written/Oral) and Clinical Skills components of the exam administered by Prometric.
  6. Verify Registry Listing
    After passing both exams, your name will be added to the Hawaii Nurse Aide Registry. Verify your status online.
    Search Registry
Total Fee
$25
Processing Time
2 to 3 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available

Transfer License

Contact the Hawaii Dept of Health for current transfer requirements.

Steps

  1. Verify Out-of-State License
    Ensure your current CNA certification is active and in good standing in your home state.
  2. Download Reciprocity Application
    Obtain the Hawaii Nurse Aide Testing/Out of State/Reciprocity Application Form from Prometric and select 'Route 2'.
  3. Gather Supporting Documents
    Include a copy of your current CNA certificate, photo ID, and proof of 8 hours of paid work in the last 2 years.
  4. Pay Reciprocity Fee
    Include a $25 money order or certified check payable to Prometric (personal checks are not accepted).
  5. Mail Application Packet
    Mail the complete packet to Prometric, Hawaii Nurse Aide Program, 354 Uluniu Street, Suite 308, Kailua, HI 96734.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Hawaii Dept of Health

Keeping Your License Active

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

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$25
Endorsement application$25

Slow Downs

Name Mismatch
The name on the application must exactly match the name on the government-issued ID provided at the test site.
Incomplete Background Check
Failure to complete the Fieldprint fingerprinting process or using the wrong agency code will halt the application.
Missing Work Verification
Reciprocity and renewal applications require signed proof of 8 hours of paid work; volunteer hours do not count.
Expired Out-of-State License
If the home state license is expired, the applicant may be required to retake the competency exam in Hawaii.

Questions

How many hours of training are required in Hawaii?
Hawaii requires a minimum of 100 hours of state-approved training, which includes 30 hours of classroom instruction and 70 hours of clinical practice.
How often must I renew my Hawaii CNA certification?
Certification must be renewed every 24 months. You must verify at least 8 hours of paid nursing-related work during that period.
What is the fee for CNA reciprocity in Hawaii?
The reciprocity application fee is $25, payable to Prometric via money order or certified check.
Who manages the Hawaii Nurse Aide Registry?
The registry is managed by Prometric under contract with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA).
Can I work while my reciprocity application is pending?
No, you cannot legally perform CNA duties in Hawaii until your name appears as 'Active' on the Hawaii Nurse Aide Registry.

Board Info

Hawaii Dept of Health
Sources