CNA License Renewal — Continuing Education Guide (2026)
How to renew your CNA license. State-by-state continuing education requirements, renewal steps, costs, and deadlines for CNA certification renewal in 2026.
CNA License Renewal Overview
CNA certification must be renewed every 2 years in most states. Failure to renew on time can result in an expired certification, requiring you to retake the CNA exam to get recertified.
General Renewal Requirements
While specific requirements vary by state, most states require:
- Active employment: Minimum of 8 hours of paid nursing-related work within the renewal period
- Continuing education: 8-48 hours of CE depending on your state
- Good standing: No substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of property
- Renewal fee: $20-$75 depending on the state
Federal regulations under OBRA (Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) require CNAs to complete at least 12 hours of in-service training annually and have performed nursing-related services for pay within the past 24 months.
Warning: If your CNA certification lapses for more than 24 months without paid work, most states require you to retake the entire CNA training program and competency exam. Don't let your certification expire!
Continuing Education Requirements by State
CE requirements for CNAs vary significantly from state to state. Here are some examples:
CA CNA Renewal:
- Renewal cycle: Every 2 years
- CE hours: 48 hours (24 hours per year)
- Work requirement: 8 hours paid work in past 2 years
- Cost: $25 renewal fee
- Registry: CA CDPH Aide & Technician Certification Section
How to Renew Your CNA License
- Check your expiration date — Most states send renewal notices 60-90 days before expiration
- Complete required CE hours — Verify you've met your state's continuing education requirements
- Verify employment — Ensure you have documentation of paid nursing work within the renewal period
- Submit renewal application — Apply online or by mail through your state's nurse aide registry
- Pay the renewal fee — $20-$75 depending on your state
- Receive confirmation — Your renewed certification should be processed within 2-6 weeks
What If Your CNA License Expires?
If your CNA certification has expired, your options depend on how long it's been:
- Recently expired (within grace period): Most states allow late renewal with a penalty fee. Contact your state registry immediately.
- Expired less than 24 months: Some states allow reinstatement by completing CE requirements and paying back fees. You may need to show proof of recent nursing work.
- Expired more than 24 months without work: You'll likely need to retake the CNA competency exam. Some states may require you to repeat the entire training program.
Pro tip: Set a calendar reminder 90 days before your expiration date to start the renewal process.
- ✓Check your CNA certification expiration date
- ✓Verify you've completed required CE/in-service hours
- ✓Gather employment verification documentation
- ✓Visit your state's nurse aide registry website
- ✓Complete the renewal application (online or mail)
- ✓Pay the renewal fee
- ✓Keep copies of all CE certificates for your records
- ✓Set a reminder for your next renewal date
- ✓Update your contact information on the registry
CNA Renewal Key Facts
How often must you renew your CNA certification?
Every 2 years (24 months) in most states. Federal OBRA regulations require active employment and continuing education within each renewal period.
How many CE hours do CNAs need?
Federal minimum: 12 hours annually (24 per renewal cycle). State requirements range from 8-48 hours per renewal period. Check your specific state.
What happens if your CNA certification lapses?
If lapsed > 24 months without paid work, most states require retaking the competency exam. Some require repeating the entire training program.
What is the work requirement for CNA renewal?
You must perform at least 8 hours of paid nursing-related services within the 24-month renewal period to maintain active status on the registry.
CNA: Pros and Cons
- +cna — cNA credential is recognized by employers and industry professionals
- +Higher earning potential compared to non-credentialed peers
- +Expanded career opportunities and professional advancement
- +Structured learning path builds comprehensive knowledge
- +Professional development that stays current with industry standards
- −Preparation requires significant time and study commitment
- −Associated costs for exams, materials, and renewal fees
- −Continuing education needed to maintain credentials
- −Competition for advanced positions can be challenging
- −Requirements and standards may vary by state or region