How to Transfer Your CNA License from Illinois to Texas

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

Quick Comparison

Requirement	Illinois (IL)	Texas (TX)
Total Cost	$85	$145–$160
Training Hours	120 hrs	100 hrs
Exam Required	Check with board	Check with board
Renewal Period	2 years (24 months)	2 years
Reciprocity	Yes	Yes

Can You Transfer Your CNA License?

✓

Texas accepts out-of-state cna credentials

Must apply through TULIP system, provide verification of active certification from previous state, and pass a criminal history check

Additional requirements: [object Object]

What You'll Need to Do in Texas

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

1
Complete an HHSC-approved NATCEP (100 hours: 60 classroom + 40 clinical) or HHSC computer-based training option
2
Complete criminal history check through Texas Department of Public Safety
3
Register for the competency exam through Prometric (800-488-5787 or TXCNA@prometric.com)
4
Pass both the written (or oral) knowledge test (60 questions) and the skills evaluation (5 tasks)
5
Exam scores electronically sent to TULIP; certificate issued digitally through TULIP system
6
Be placed on the Texas Nurse Aide Registry

Cost Comparison

Illinois Fees

Training Program Fee$500–$1,500
Competency Exam Fee$85
Total$85

Texas Fees

Training Program Fee$625–$1,400
Competency Exam Fee$120
Background Check Fee$25–$40
Total$145–$160

Estimated Timeline

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

Explore More

Illinois CNA License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Texas CNA License

Full requirements, fees, and steps

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my cna license from Illinois to Texas?▾

Texas does accept out-of-state cna credentials. Must apply through TULIP system, provide verification of active certification from previous state, and pass a criminal history check

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

Government fees for a CNA license in Texas total approximately $145–$160. Additional costs may include exam fees, background checks, and education requirements.

How long does it take to transfer a CNA license from Illinois to Texas?▾

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

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

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

Moving to another state? Use our Transfer Tool to see what you need →

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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 Illinois and Texas licensing boards before making decisions. LicenseMap is not a government agency and does not guarantee the accuracy of this information.

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