The Tennessee Department of Health requires that all Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) working in the state be registered with the department. The following page provides instructions on how to look up a CNA license number or verify the status of a license number for CNAs located in the state of Tennessee.
How to verify a Tennessee CNA license number
Verification of CNA license numbers can be completed online using the Tennessee Department of Health’s website. Visit the License Verification page and fill out as many details as possible about the individual including name, address, and license number. For Profession select “Nurse Aide”
The Search Results page will display the designated Profession, Rank, License Number, status of the license, original certification date, and the upcoming expiration date.
Click the Certification Letter link from the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry for additional information about the CNA and the license including special endorsements, and comments about the license.
How to lookup a Tennessee CNA license number
The Tennessee Department of Health’s License Verification page can also be used to lookup a license number for a CNA. Leave the CNA license number field blank and provide as many other details as possible.
The process for searching by name or city may take longer to process than searching by license number. If you are having trouble finding a license number try searching with fewer fields. You can also contact the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry for assistance.
How do I get a CNA license number?
The first step to getting a CNA license number is to complete an approved nurse aide training program. Once you have completed the training, you must then pass a competency evaluation consisting of a written/oral exam and a skills test. After passing the evaluation, you will be registered with the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry and will be issued a license number.
What do I do with my CNA license number?
After you have been issued a license number, you are legally allowed to practice as a Certified Nursing Assistant in the state of Tennessee. Many CNAs apply for positions with long-term care facilities or home health agencies that are licensed to operate in the state of Tennessee. You will need to provide your employer with your license number so that they can verify your status on the Nurse Aide Registry.
How do I renew my CNA license number?
Your CNA license number will need to be renewed every two years. The Tennessee Department of Health will mail you a renewal form approximately 60 days before your license expires. To renew your license, you must complete the renewal form and return it to the department with the required fee. You must also show proof that you have worked at least eight hours as a paid Certified Nurse Aide during the past two years.
If you have not worked as a CNA during the past two years, you will need to retake and pass the competency evaluation in order to renew your license.
How do I register with the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry?
The first step in this process is to pass a state-approved CNA training program and exam. Once you have completed these requirements, you will need to submit an application to the department along with a fee. The department will then issue you a license number. You will need to keep this number with you at all times while working as a CNA in the state.
If you are already registered with the Nurse Aide Registry in another state, you may be able to apply for reciprocity. This process allows you to transfer your registration from one state to another. You will need to submit an application, along with a fee and proof of your current registration.
You can find more information on this topic on our Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry page.
How often do I need to renew my CNA license in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, CNAs must renew their licenses every two years. The department will send you a renewal notice prior to your license expiration date. To renew your license, you will need to submit a renewal application along with a fee.
You will also need to show proof that you have worked at least eight hours as a CNA during the two years preceding your renewal date.
If you have not worked as a CNA during this time, you will need to retake and pass the state-approved CNA training program and exam.
Where can I find more information about CNAs in Tennessee?
For more information about CNAs in Tennessee, you can contact the Tennessee Department of Health at (615) 532-5171. You can also visit the department’s website for a list of state-approved CNA training programs.