How to Transfer Your CNA License from California to Arizona

Side-by-side comparison of requirements, costs, and reciprocity. Updated 2026.

Quick Comparison

Requirement	California (CA)	Arizona (AZ)
Total Cost	$156	$125
Training Hours	150 hrs	120 hrs
Exam Required	Check with board	Check with board
Renewal Period	2 years	2 years
Reciprocity	Yes	Yes

Can You Transfer Your CNA License?

✓

Arizona accepts out-of-state cna credentials

Must apply for reciprocity through AZBN, provide verification of active certification from previous state, and be in good standing

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What You'll Need to Do in Arizona

These are the standard licensing steps in Arizona. As a licensed cna from California, you may already satisfy some of these requirements.

1
Complete a state-approved CNA training program (minimum 120 hours: 80 classroom + 40 clinical)
2
Register for the competency exam through D&S Diversified Technologies (Headmaster) at hdmaster.com
3
Pass both the knowledge exam (75 multiple-choice questions, 76% passing score) and the skills evaluation (3-4 tasks)
4
Submit application for placement on the Arizona Nurse Aide Registry through AZBN
5
No fingerprinting or state registration fees required for CNA certification
6
Receive certification and registry placement

Cost Comparison

California Fees

Training Program Fee$500–$3,500+
Competency Exam Fee$126
Background Check Fee$25–$60
Total$156

Arizona Fees

Training Program Fee$725–$1,560
Competency Exam Fee$125
State Registration Fee$0 for CNA registry placement
Total$125

Estimated Timeline

Timeline varies based on your credentials, reciprocity eligibility, and Arizona's current processing times. Contact the state licensing board for current estimates.

Explore More

California CNA License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Arizona CNA License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my cna license from California to Arizona?▾

Arizona does accept out-of-state cna credentials. Must apply for reciprocity through AZBN, provide verification of active certification from previous state, and be in good standing

How much does it cost to transfer a CNA license to Arizona?▾

Government fees for a CNA license in Arizona total approximately $125. Additional costs may include exam fees, background checks, and education requirements.

How long does it take to transfer a CNA license from California to Arizona?▾

Processing times vary by state. Contact the Arizona licensing board for current timelines.

Do I need to retake the cna exam when moving to Arizona?▾

Contact the Arizona licensing board for current exam requirements for transferring licensees.

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Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only. Licensing requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements, fees, and reciprocity policies directly with the California and Arizona licensing boards before making decisions. GetLicenseMap is not a government agency and does not guarantee the accuracy of this information.