How to Renew CNA License Colorado: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you are a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the state of Colorado, it is important to keep your license current by renewing it on time. The Colorado Board of Nursing requires CNAs to renew their licenses every two years to ensure that they are up to date with the latest knowledge and skills. In this article, we will guide you through the process of renewing your CNA license in Colorado, along with answering some frequently asked questions.
Step 1: Check the Renewal Eligibility Requirements
Before initiating the renewal process, it is crucial to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements set by the Colorado Board of Nursing. To be eligible, you must have worked for pay as a CNA for at least eight hours within the past 24 months. It is also important to have completed the required continuing education hours, which is typically 24 hours.
Step 2: Complete the Renewal Application
To renew your CNA license in Colorado, you need to complete the renewal application provided by the Colorado Board of Nursing. The application can be downloaded from their website or requested by mail. Ensure that you accurately fill in all the required information, including your personal details, employment history, and continuing education information.
Step 3: Submit the Application and Fee
After completing the renewal application, you will need to submit it to the Colorado Board of Nursing along with the required fee. As of the writing of this article, the fee for renewing a CNA license in Colorado is $50. It is advisable to submit the application and fee at least 30 days before your license expiration date to allow sufficient processing time.
Step 4: Verification of Employment
The Colorado Board of Nursing may require verification of your employment as a CNA to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for renewal. The verification can be in the form of a letter from your employer or a pay stub. Make sure to include this document with your application to avoid any delays in the renewal process.
Step 5: Continuing Education
As mentioned earlier, completing the required continuing education hours is crucial for renewing your CNA license in Colorado. The state mandates a minimum of 24 hours of continuing education during the two-year renewal period. These hours can be obtained through various approved training programs, workshops, or online courses. Ensure that you have completed the necessary hours and provide the required documentation as proof of completion.
Step 6: Background Check
The Colorado Board of Nursing requires CNAs to undergo a background check during the renewal process. This is to ensure that there are no criminal convictions or disciplinary actions that may affect your ability to practice as a CNA. The background check will be conducted by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and may require submitting fingerprints. Follow the instructions provided by the Board to complete this step.
Step 7: License Renewal
Once you have completed all the necessary steps, including the application, fee payment, employment verification, continuing education, and background check, you will be eligible for license renewal. The Colorado Board of Nursing will review your application and, if everything is in order, issue you a renewed CNA license.
FAQs:
1. Can I renew my CNA license if I haven’t worked as a CNA in Colorado?
No, the Colorado Board of Nursing requires you to have worked for pay as a CNA for at least eight hours within the past 24 months to be eligible for renewal.
2. How many continuing education hours do I need?
Colorado mandates a minimum of 24 hours of continuing education during the two-year renewal period.
3. Can I renew my CNA license if I have a criminal conviction?
It depends on the nature of the conviction. The Colorado Board of Nursing will review your background check and make a decision based on the severity and relevance to your ability to practice as a CNA.
4. How long does it take to process the renewal application?
The Colorado Board of Nursing recommends submitting your application and fee at least 30 days before your license expiration date to allow sufficient processing time. However, processing times may vary, so it is advisable to plan ahead.
5. Can I renew my CNA license online?
Yes, the Colorado Board of Nursing provides an online renewal option for CNAs. You can visit their website and follow the instructions to renew your license online.
6. What happens if my CNA license expires?
If your CNA license expires, you will need to apply for reinstatement. The reinstatement process may require additional steps and fees, so it is best to renew your license before it expires.
7. How much is the renewal fee?
As of the writing of this article, the fee for renewing a CNA license in Colorado is $50.
In conclusion, renewing your CNA license in Colorado is a straightforward process that involves meeting the eligibility requirements, completing the renewal application, submitting the required fee, providing employment verification and continuing education documentation, undergoing a background check, and waiting for the Board’s approval. By following these steps and ensuring timely renewal, you can continue your career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in the state of Colorado.