How to Become a CNA in Alabama
The Alabama Nurse Aide Registry or the Alabama CNA registry, within the Alabama Department of Public Health, Division of Health Care Facilities, establishes the requirements necessary to be eligible for certification as a nurse aide in the State of Alabama. The following steps are required to become a CNA in Alabama:
- Registering and completing a nurse aide program approved by the Alabama Department of Health. State-approved programs require a minimum of 75 hours of training.
- Qualifying for the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam which is a two-part competency evaluation process.
Application for the registration by Examination
How to Verify your CNA Certification in Alabama
In order to verify your CNA certification in Alabama, you or your employer must access the Alabama Department of Health website that features the Nurse Aide Registry in the A-Z Index. A Social Security number is required in order to access your records, specifically, your Nurse Aide Status Report and Abuse List. Calling the Alabama CNA registry during office hours is also possible.
Verification of CNA Certification in Alabama
How to Renew your CNA Certification in Alabama
Your CNA status will expire within 24 months after you’ve qualified from your initial competency exam. In order to maintain its status active, you will need to work a minimum of 8 hours during each of the 24-month time frame. Please note that only work done at approved health establishments like hospices, hospitals, nursing homes or rehabilitation centers will be considered. Unfortunately, work done within assisted living facilities, private practice, or doctors’ offices or any form of volunteer work will not be considered.
Application for CNA Renewal in Alabama
How to Reinstate your CNA Certification in Alabama
Failure to complete the minimum requirement of 8 hours of work within the 24-month time frame will result in an expiration of your CNA certification . To renew your CNA Certification, you will need to complete a CNA program which includes retraining and retesting along with passing an NNAAP exam to become eligible for the reinstatement of a lapsed certification.
Application to Reinstate CNA Certification in Alabama
How to Transfer your Out-of-State CNA Certification to Alabama
It is only possible to transfer an out-of-state CNA certification to Alabama if you currently have an active certification and are free from all abuses in the state which you acquired your CNA certification. Upon applying for a CNA position at any nursing home in Alabama, the employer will need to verify your certification in the respective state. Once the company hires you, you will be able to transfer to the Alabama registry. Note: You cannot transfer your CNA certification to Alabama if you wish to work in a home health care facility.
You can also apply for enrollment by reciprocity via this form:
Application for Enrollment by Reciprocity
If you have additional questions, you may contact the Alabama Nurse Aide Registry at:
Alabama Nurse Aide Registry
Alabama Department of Public Health
Division of Health Care Facilities
The RSA Tower
201 Monroe Street, Suite 700
Montgomery, AL 36104
Phone: (334) 206-5169
