Processing times for CNA certification?

[Jeniele, ADN, RN]

Anyone have recent experience on processing times for a CNA with the DoH? I've searched the topic and found that it takes about three weeks but that was from a post a couple of years old. I moved from OR earlier this year with a current unencumbered certification and it's been 6 weeks since I applied. I've been listed as "pending" on the provider credential search on the DoH website for 4 weeks with no updates or contact from them of any kind other than seeing that they cashed my check.

I tried calling to get an update but was told that it can take "weeks and weeks and weeks" and that I "should check my spam folder regularly for e-mails to see if they (the DoH) require further information" and was otherwise referred to the website. The website didn't offer much information either. It said that out of state applicants may or may not be required to undergo a fingerprint background check. I'd like to know which, so that I can get that started if need be. I had ensured that the OR BON had sent proof of my certification to the DoH a month in advance of my application to prevent delay and made sure to include any possible documentation that they might need.

The ambiguity here is killing me and I'm surprised that WA doesn't have a dedicated BON as it seems like the DoH has a lot to cover. Is there some temporary type of credential I can get so that I can work while they take their time? I've had potential employers tell me not to apply until I had a current WA certification. If I had known that backlogs were common I would have applied as soon as I moved but wanted to take time to get settled. In OR it was two weeks for the background check and then 24 hours after my exam my certification was posted on the BON website so I'm used to a more clear cut system. Any help in navigating this would be greatly appreciated.

[verene, MSN]

I received mine earlier this year. I think it took about 8 weeks from time I mailed in my forms to when my license showed up under the online credential search, and another couple of weeks before I received it in the mail. Fortunately I was working under a valid NAR but even getting my NAR took about 6 weeks total time. Things just move REALLY slow with the DoH.

[Jeniele, ADN, RN]

Posting an update to hopefully help future applicants. Like Verene I too found that it took 8 weeks from the date I mailed the application before I saw my certification posted on the DoH website, then about a week later for the cards in the mail. It would be nice if they just posted that it would take 6-10 weeks on their website as an average processing time. I know it would have helped me to not be so anxious. Also, I wasn't required to undergo the additional fingerprinting but that may not be the case for others. I had my fingerprinting done by my previous BON less than a year ago so maybe WA was able to get those?

[SeattleJess]

Everyone's transfers were faster than my initial certification. It took DOH more than three months after I'd passed the exams to get my CNA certificate out.

[sgarcia14]

this is good to know! i know that at some facilities it takes months to even hear back on about a job, I will keep this in mind in the future as to when I should take the class!