Oregon

Getting Your Certified Nursing Assistant License in Oregon

Here's what you need to know.

Last updated 2026-03-22 · Sources verified

Path for Out-of-State Certified Nursing Assistants

There is no active interstate compact route for certified nursing assistant licensing in Oregon. Plan on endorsement through Oregon State 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 Oregon.

  • Fingerprinting: Required. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail. Completing prints outside Oregon can add 2-4 weeks.
  • License verification: Oregon 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.

Oregon Endorsement Requirements

This is the endorsement checklist for already-licensed clinicians applying in Oregon.

  1. Step 1

    Start the Oregon application

    Apply through the Oregon State Board of Nursing. The application fee is $60.

  2. Step 2

    Send verification of your current license

    Oregon requires verification sent directly from your current state board or its official verification system before your file is complete.

  3. Step 3

    Send Proof of Training

    Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.

  4. Step 4

    Send State Competency Exam Results

    Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.

  5. Step 5

    Complete fingerprinting or background check

    Oregon 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.

  6. Step 6

    Wait for board processing

    Plan on about 2 to 4 Weeks for processing. Oregon also lists a temporary or provisional route while the full file is pending.

  7. Step 7

    Complete Training Program

    Complete a state-approved CNA training program (typically 75-120 hours).

Fees and Renewal

Total fee
$60
Processing time
2 to 4 Weeks
Renewal fee
N/A
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
Application
$60
Background check
Varies by provider
Jurisprudence exam
$0
Total estimated cost
$60

Temporary License

Oregon 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
Oregon State Board of Nursing
Department
State Health Department
Phone
(971) 673-0685
Email
See board website
Board site
Primary board page

Source: Primary board website

Renewal

Renewal fee is N/A. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years.

Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant Licensing FAQ

How much does Oregon CNA endorsement cost?

The endorsement application fee is $60. Additional costs may include background check fees.

Is a background check required?

Yes, a fingerprint-based background check is required in Oregon.

How long does it take to transfer my CNA certification to Oregon?

Most endorsement applications take 2 to 4 Weeks.

Can I start working in Oregon while waiting?

Check with the state board about temporary practice permits while your endorsement is being processed.