Path for Out-of-State Certified Nursing Assistants
There is no active interstate compact route for certified nursing assistant licensing in New Jersey. Plan on endorsement through New Jersey Board of Nursing.
CNAs certified in another state can often apply via endorsement (reciprocity) by providing registry verification from their home state.
Items to Watch Out For
These are the issues most likely to affect whether your contract timeline is realistic in New Jersey.
- Fingerprinting: Required. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail. Completing prints outside New Jersey can add 2-4 weeks.
- License verification: New Jersey requires verification of your current out-of-state license before your file is complete.
- Compact status: No active compact route here. Plan on endorsement.
- Temporary license: The board lists a temporary or provisional route while the full file is pending.
New Jersey Endorsement Requirements
This is the endorsement checklist for already-licensed clinicians applying in New Jersey.
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Step 1
Start the New Jersey application
Apply through the New Jersey Board of Nursing. The application fee is $200.
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Step 2
Send verification of your current license
New Jersey requires verification sent directly from your current state board or its official verification system before your file is complete.
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Step 3
Send Proof of Training
Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.
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Step 4
Send State Competency Exam Results
Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.
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Step 5
Complete fingerprinting or background check
New Jersey requires fingerprinting or background screening on this path. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail.
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Step 6
Wait for board processing
Plan on about 4 to 6 Weeks for processing. New Jersey also lists a temporary or provisional route while the full file is pending.
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Step 7
Complete Training Program
Complete a state-approved CNA training program (typically 75-120 hours).
Fees and Renewal
- Total fee
- $200
- Processing time
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- N/A
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years
- Application
- $200
- Background check
- Varies by provider
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $200
Temporary License
New Jersey offers a temporary or provisional license so you can start working while your full endorsement application is processing.
- Fee
- See board
- Duration
- See board
- Processing time
- See board
Required Documents
- 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.
Board Contact
- Board
- New Jersey Board of Nursing
- Department
- State Health Department
- Phone
- (973) 504-6430
- See board website
- Board site
- Primary board page
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is N/A. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years.
New Jersey Certified Nursing Assistant Licensing FAQ
How much does New Jersey CNA endorsement cost?
The endorsement application fee is $200. Additional costs may include background check fees.
Is a background check required?
Yes, a fingerprint-based background check is required in New Jersey.
How long does it take to transfer my CNA certification to New Jersey?
Most endorsement applications take 4 to 6 Weeks.
Can I start working in New Jersey while waiting?
Check with the state board about temporary practice permits while your endorsement is being processed.