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
- Government-Issued Photo ID — A valid driver's license, state ID, or passport.
- Social Security Card — A copy of your original Social Security card for identity verification.
- NATCEP Training Completion Certificate — Proof of completing the 100-hour state-approved training program.
- Form 5506-NAR (if applicable) — Employment verification form required for renewals or if your out-of-state certificate has no expiration date.
How to Apply
-
Complete Approved Training ▾Complete a state-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) consisting of 100 total hours (60 classroom, 40 clinical).
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Create TULIP Account ▾Register for an account on the Texas Unified Licensure Information Portal (TULIP) to manage your application.
Register for TULIP -
Submit Initial Application ▾Log in to TULIP and submit the 'New Nurse Aide by Examination' application. Select your training program from the dropdown menu.
Login to TULIP -
Complete Fingerprinting ▾Schedule a fingerprint appointment with IdentoGO. You must use the specific service code provided by HHSC or your training program.
Schedule Fingerprints -
Receive Approval to Test ▾Once your training is verified by your program director and your background check clears, you will receive an 'Approval to Test' email from SMT Notice.
-
Register for Exams ▾Use the link in your approval email to schedule and pay for the Written/Oral and Skills exams through Prometric.
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Pass Exams and Get Certified ▾Pass both exam components. Results are sent to HHSC, and your certificate will be available for download in TULIP.
Download Certificate
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
1.5 to 2 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Steps
-
Verify Out-of-State Status ▾Ensure your CNA certification is active and in good standing in your current state.
-
Complete Texas Background Check ▾Obtain a criminal history report from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
DPS Crime Records -
Submit Reciprocity Application ▾Log in to TULIP and complete the 'Request for Entry on the Texas Nurse Aide Registry through Reciprocity' application.
TULIP Portal -
Upload Required Forms ▾Upload Form 5505-NAR, your out-of-state certificate, ID, and Social Security card.
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.
Renew on the board siteFees
| Item | Amount |
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Slow Downs
Missing Service Code for Fingerprints
▾
Using the wrong service code at IdentoGO prevents HHSC from receiving your background check results. Always verify the code with HHSC first.
NATCEP Director Verification
▾
Applications cannot move to the testing phase until the training program director logs into TULIP to approve the student's training completion.
Incomplete Reciprocity Forms
▾
Failing to include Form 5506-NAR when an out-of-state certificate lacks an expiration date will result in the application being returned.
Questions
How much does it cost to become a CNA in Texas?
▾
There is no application fee to HHSC. However, the Prometric exam costs $125 ($135 for oral), and fingerprinting fees vary by location.
How long does the Texas CNA application process take?
▾
The process typically takes 4 to 12 weeks from the start of training to the issuance of the certificate.
How do I renew my Texas CNA certification?
▾
Renew every two years via TULIP. You must document 24 hours of in-service education, including geriatrics and dementia care, and verify qualifying employment.
Can I work as a CNA in Texas while my reciprocity is pending?
▾
No. You must be listed as 'Active' on the Texas Nurse Aide Registry before you can legally work in a licensed nursing facility.
Board Info
Sources
State statutes