(a) To be listed on the nurse aide registry, an applicant must:
(1) complete a training program approved by the commission that includes:
(A) not less than 100 hours of course work as specified by rule; and
(B) a competency evaluation on completion of the training program; and
(2) hold a certificate of registration issued by the commission on completion of the training program required under Subdivision (1).
(b) A certificate of registration and listing on the nurse aide registry expire on the second anniversary of the date the certificate is issued and the nurse aide is listed in the registry.

(c) To renew a nurse aide’s certificate of registration and listing on the registry, the nurse aide must complete at least 24 hours of in-service education every two years, including training in geriatrics and, if applicable, in the care of patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
(c-1) Chapter 53, Occupations Code, does not apply to the issuance or renewal of a nurse aide’s certificate of registration or an applicant’s inclusion in the nurse aide registry under this section.
(d) The executive commissioner shall adopt the rules necessary to implement this section, including rules for the issuance and renewal of a certificate of registration under this section and the regulation of nurse aides as necessary to protect the public health and safety.