A comprehensive guide to the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry: From application to renewal
Welcome to the gateway for becoming a State Registered Nurse Aide (STNA) in Kentucky! The Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry serves as the authoritative hub, ensuring the qualification, competence, and adherence to standards for all Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) in the state. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get on the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry and essential details for maintaining an active status.
Requirements to get on the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry
Fees
The application process is free of charge, however, there is a fee to take the competency examination.
Minimum Age
Some training schools will require you to be at least 17 years old to apply.
Minimum Education
Training school may require to have a high school diploma or a GED.
Training Requirements
To qualify you must complete a Kentucky state-approved nurse aide training program, which is administered by the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS). Here you can find a list of training schools. More information about the Nurse Aide training can be found here.
Competency Test
To be certified on the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry, you must successfully complete the Nurse Aide competency evaluation program. This process is facilitated by Headmaster.
Background Check
Many programs as well as employers require you to submit a clear fingerprint-based criminal background check.
Applying to appear on the Kentucky CNA Registry
Where to apply
Once you complete your training program, you will be able to schedule your competency examination. Your program will assist you in that process.
Required Documentation
You will need to upload your personal information as well as other documentation during the application process, including information about your training program.
Restrictions
If you have any findings against you, these will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and you must provide all information required by the Registry.
Processing Time
Test results are usually available within 30 days of taking the examination and are automatically sent to the Board of Nursing. If more than 30 days have passed and you haven’t heard anything, please call 1-877-528-2748.
How to keep your license on the Kentucky CNA Registry
Stay Active
The certification period is for 24 months, and you must renew every 2 years by providing verification that you have worked a minimum of eight hours for compensation during the 24-month time frame.
Renew
To renew your application, you must create a Kentucky Board of Nursing Portal account. Here you can find instructions on how to create your account. After logging in to your account and navigating to the dashboard, click on ‘Apply for renewal’. You can then go through the online renewal process, during which you are also required to upload documents for proof of employment. Note that the renewal will only be possible 60 days or less before your certification expires. If you’re unsure when your certification expires, you can check the expiration date on the license verification portal.
Reactivate your expired license
If your certification expires, you can reinstate your license if you can provide proof that you were employed in a nursing-related capacity for at least eight paid hours prior to the expiration date. If you can provide proof of working eight paid hours for every two years the registration has been lapsed, you can log in to the Kentucky Nurse Portal, navigate to your dashboard, and click on ‘Apply for reinstatement’. You can then go through the online reinstatement process, during which you are also required to upload documents for proof of employment.
If you cannot show proof of employment prior to your expiration, you will need to retrain and retest.
Kentucky CNA reciprocity
For those seeking reciprocity, additional information can be found on our Kentucky CNA Reciprocity page.
Kentucky Registry and contact details
Link to Registry: https://kbn.ky.gov/state-registered-nurse-aide/Pages/default.aspx
Link to license lookup: https://kybn.boardsofnursing.org/licenselookup
Contact information:
Email: kbn.credentials@ky.gov
Phone: 502-429-3300 or 1-800-305-2042
Address:
Kentucky Board of Nursing
312 Whittington Pkwy #300
Louisville, KY 40222