How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant

5 steps to become a certified nursing assistant

1. Meet the basic requirements

   Most programs require you to be at least 16–18, pass a background check, show immunizations and complete a TB test.

2. Complete a state-approved training program

   Programs are offered by community colleges, the Red Cross, vocational schools and nursing homes. Some facilities train for free if you agree to work there.

3. Pass the competency exam

   The exam has a written (or oral) portion and a skills test where you demonstrate tasks such as handwashing and transfers.

4. Get listed on the registry

   Once listed, you can be hired as a CNA in your state.

5. Gain experience and advance

   Many CNAs move on to LPN or RN programs, often with employer tuition assistance.

Education and training requirements

You must complete a state-approved nurse aide training program, at least 75 hours under federal rules, including 16 supervised clinical hours, though many states require 100 or more, and pass your state’s competency exam.

Certifications and licenses

• State CNA certification: Earned by passing your state’s written and skills competency exam; you are then listed on the state nurse aide registry.
• CPR / BLS: Required by most employers.
• Certified Medication Aide (CMA/QMA): In some states, experienced CNAs can take additional training to pass medications.
• Specialty certificates: Dementia care, restorative care and hospice training add value in long-term care.

Skills to build now

Start with activities of daily living (adl) care, safe patient transfers and positioning, and vital signs, and practice compassion and patience and physical stamina. Learning the certified nursing assistant vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.

Where the career can lead

1. Certified Nursing Assistant: Provide daily personal care and monitoring.
2. Certified Medication Aide or Restorative Aide: Pass medications (where allowed) or lead rehab-focused care.
3. Licensed Practical Nurse: Complete a roughly one-year program and pass the NCLEX-PN.
4. Registered Nurse: Earn an ADN or BSN and pass the NCLEX-RN.

Get a head start

Our self-paced Certified Nursing Assistant training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.

Common questions about getting started

How long does CNA training take?

Most state-approved programs take 4 to 12 weeks. Federal law requires at least 75 hours, and many states require more.

How much does a certified nursing assistant make?

The median annual wage for certified nursing assistants was $42,260 ($20.32 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $33,940 and the highest 10% earned more than $51,980.

How long does it take to become a certified nursing assistant?

Most people need about 4–12 weeks of training. You must complete a state-approved nurse aide training program, at least 75 hours under federal rules, including 16 supervised clinical hours, though many states require 100 or more, and pass your state’s competency exam.

Do you need a degree to be a certified nursing assistant?

No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.

Sources

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 31-1131 (Nursing assistants).
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
• O*NET OnLine summary for Nursing assistants (U.S. Department of Labor).
• BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.