Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license requirements vary by state. Each state sets its own training standards, clinical hour minimums, and exam providers. This guide outlines the core certification process and state-level differences.
Common CNA License Requirements
1. Check Eligibility Requirements
Before enrolling in a CNA program, review your state’s eligibility criteria. Common requirements include:
- Minimum Age: 16 or 18, depending on the state
- Education: High school diploma or GED, if required
- Work Authorization: Legal authorization to work in the U.S.
- Background Check: Fingerprint-based criminal screening
- Medical Clearance: Physical exam, tuberculosis (TB) screening, and immunizations
2. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program
Complete a CNA program approved by your state’s health department or nursing board.
- Total Hours: At least 75 hours of classroom and clinical instruction, as required by the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 (OBRA)
- Classroom Instruction: A minimum of 16 hours before clinical training
- Supervised Clinical Practice: At least 16 hours in a licensed healthcare setting under a licensed nurse’s supervision
- Curriculum Topics: Infection control, personal care, communication, safety, residents’ rights, and abuse prevention
- Approved Providers: Community colleges, technical schools, high schools, or long-term care facilities
- Reimbursement: If hired by a Medicare- or Medicaid-certified facility within 12 months, your employer must reimburse training and testing costs
3. Register for the Competency Exam
After training, register with your state’s designated testing vendor.
- Exam Sequence: Some states require the skills exam before the written or oral exam
- Testing Vendors: State-approved vendors include Prometric, Credentia, or Headmaster
- Documentation: Government-issued photo ID, Social Security card (if required), and proof of training
- Deadline: Pass both exam parts within 24 months of training
- Retakes: Most states allow up to three attempts. Retraining is typically required after that
4. Pass the Written and Skills Exams
You must pass both components to qualify for certification.
- Written Exam: 60 to 70 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes
- Skills Exam: Perform five randomly selected skills in 31 to 40 minutes; hand hygiene is always included
5. Apply for State Certification
Submit your application to your state’s Nurse Aide Registry.
- Required Documents: Proof of training, exam results, background check clearance, and any required fees
- Processing Time: Most states issue certification and update the registry within two to six weeks
- Registry Verification: After approval, confirm your active status in the state’s Nurse Aide Registry
Note: To become a CNA, you must complete state-approved training, pass the competency exam, and be listed on your state’s Nurse Aide Registry.
CNA License Requirements by State
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Alabama
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH)
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Alabama Certified Nurse Aide Exam administered by Prometric or Credentia
Also Read: Alabama CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Alaska
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Alaska Board of Nursing
- Finish 140 hours of training, including 60 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Exam administered by Credentia
Also Read: Alaska CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Arizona
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing
- Finish 120 hours of training, including 40 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Arizona Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: Arizona CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Arkansas
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS)
- Finish 90 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Arkansas Nursing Assistant Competency Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: Arkansas CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
California
- Be at least 16 years old
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
- Finish 160 hours of training, including 60 hours of classroom instruction and 100 hours of supervised clinical training
- Pass a criminal background check via Live Scan, processed by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Exam administered by Credentia or Headmaster
Also Read: California CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Colorado
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Colorado Board of Nursing
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Exam administered by Credentia
Also Read: Colorado CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Connecticut
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH)
- Finish 100 hours of training, including 50 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Connecticut Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation administered by Prometric
Also Read: Connecticut CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Delaware
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS)
- Finish 150 hours of training, including 75 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Delaware Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Prometric
Also Read: Delaware CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Florida
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Florida Department of Health (DOH)
- Finish 120 hours of training, including 40 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass a Level II background check through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the FBI
- Pass the Florida Certified Nursing Assistant Examination administered by Prometric
Also Read: Florida CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Georgia
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH)
- Finish 85 hours of training, including 24 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Georgia Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Credentia
Also Read: Georgia CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Hawaii
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA)
- Finish 100 hours of training, including 30 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Hawaii Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Prometric
Also Read: Hawaii CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Idaho
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW)
- Finish 120 hours of training, including 40 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Idaho Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Prometric
Also Read: Idaho CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Illinois
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)
- Finish 120 hours of training, including 40 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass a fingerprint-based background check
- Pass the Illinois Nurse Assistant Competency Exam (INACE) administered by Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC)
Also Read: Illinois CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Indiana
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH)
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Indiana Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Ivy Tech Community College
Also Read: Indiana CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Iowa
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL)
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 30 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) written and skills assessments administered by Iowa community colleges
Also Read: Iowa CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Kansas
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS)
- Finish 90 hours of training, including 45 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Kansas Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by a state-authorized third-party proctor
Also Read: Kansas CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Kentucky
- Complete a State Registered Nurse Aide (SRNA) training program approved by the Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Kentucky Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: Kentucky CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Louisiana
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Louisiana Department of Health
- Finish 80 hours of training, including 40 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Louisiana Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Prometric
Also Read: Louisiana CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Maine
- Be at least 16 years old
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
- Finish 180 hours of training, including 70 hours of classroom instruction, 20 hours of lab instruction, and 40 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Maine Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by a state-authorized test provider
Also Read: Maine CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Maryland
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing
- Finish 100 hours of training, including 40 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Exam administered by Credentia
Also Read: Maryland CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Massachusetts
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation administered by Headmaster
Also Read: Massachusetts CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Michigan
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Michigan Bureau of Community and Health Systems
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Michigan Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: Michigan CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Minnesota
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Minnesota Department of Health
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: Minnesota CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Mississippi
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH)
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Mississippi Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: Mississippi CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Missouri
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS)
- Finish 175 hours of training, including 100 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Missouri Certified Nurse Assistant Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: Missouri CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Montana
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS)
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 25 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Montana Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: Montana CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Nebraska
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Complete a 1-hour abuse, neglect, and misappropriation training
- Pass the Nebraska Nursing Assistant Competency Exam administered by the Nebraska Health Care Learning Center (NHCLC)
Also Read: Nebraska CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Nevada
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Nevada State Board of Nursing
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Nevada Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Credentia
Also Read: Nevada CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
New Hampshire
- Complete a Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) training program approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing
- Finish 100 hours of training, including 60 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass a fingerprint-based background check through the NH Criminal Records Portal
- Pass the New Hampshire Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Excel Testing
Also Read: New Hampshire CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
New Jersey
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the New Jersey Department of Health
- Finish 90 hours of training, including 40 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the New Jersey Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: New Jersey CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
New Mexico
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH)
- Finish 75 hours of training, including supervised clinical practice
- Pass the New Mexico Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: New Mexico CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
New York
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH)
- Finish 100 hours of training, including 30 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the New York Nurse Aide Exam administered by Prometric
Also Read: New York CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
North Carolina
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR)
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Exam administered by Credentia
Also Read: North Carolina CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
North Dakota
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the North Dakota Department of Health
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the North Dakota Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: North Dakota CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Ohio
- Complete a State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA) program approved by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH)
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Ohio STNA Competency Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: Ohio CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Oklahoma
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH)
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Oklahoma Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Prometric
Also Read: Oklahoma CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Oregon
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN)
- Finish 155 hours of training, including 75 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Exam administered by Headmaster
- Submit fingerprints through Fieldprint Oregon
Also Read: Oregon CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Pennsylvania
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE)
- Finish 80 hours of training, including 37.5 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Exam administered by Credentia
Also Read: Pennsylvania CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Rhode Island
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Rhode Island Department of Health
- Finish 100 hours of training, including 20 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Exam administered by Credentia
Also Read: Rhode Island CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
South Carolina
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS)
- Finish 100 hours of training, including 40 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Exam administered by Credentia
Also Read: South Carolina CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
South Dakota
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the South Dakota Board of Nursing
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the South Dakota Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: South Dakota CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Tennessee
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Tennessee Department of Health
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 35 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Tennessee Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: Tennessee CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Texas
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC)
- Finish 100 hours of training, including 40 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass a criminal history check through the Texas Department of Public Safety Crime Records Division
- Pass the Texas Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation administered by Prometric
Also Read: Texas CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Utah
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Utah Nursing Assistant Registry (UNAR)
- Finish 100 hours of training, including 24 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Utah Nursing Assistant Certification Exam administered by UNAR
Also Read: Utah CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Vermont
- Complete a Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) program approved by the Vermont Board of Nursing
- Finish 80 hours of training, including 30 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Vermont Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Excel Testing
Also Read: Vermont CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Virginia
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing
- Finish 120 hours of training, including 40 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Virginia Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Credentia
Also Read: Virginia CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Washington
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Washington State Board of Nursing (WABON)
- Finish 85 hours of training, including 40 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Exam administered by Credentia
Also Read: Washington CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
West Virginia
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources
- Finish 120 hours of training, including 65 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the West Virginia Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Professional Healthcare Development (PHD)
Also Read: West Virginia CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Wisconsin
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS)
- Finish 120 hours of training, including 32 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: Wisconsin CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Wyoming
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Wyoming Department of Health
- Finish 75 hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice
- Pass a criminal background check through the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and the FBI
- Pass the Wyoming Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by Headmaster
Also Read: Wyoming CNA License: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a high school diploma to start CNA training?
Requirements vary by state and training program. California does not require a high school diploma or GED. Georgia allows students to enroll at age 16 with demonstrated reading proficiency. Always confirm with your training provider and state Nurse Aide Registry.
How many hours of CNA training are required?
Federal regulations require a minimum of 75 hours, including at least 16 hours of supervised clinical training. Many states exceed this minimum. For example, California requires 160 hours and Maine requires 180 hours.
What happens if I fail the CNA exam?
Most states allow up to three attempts to pass each section of the exam within 24 months of completing training. If you do not pass after three attempts, you must retake an approved CNA training program before testing again.
Can I work while waiting for my certification exam results?
Yes. Under federal law, CNA trainees may work in certified nursing facilities for up to four months after hire while completing training and testing requirements. You must pass both exams within that period to continue working as a CNA.
How do I transfer my CNA certification to another state?
Apply for reciprocity with the new state’s Nurse Aide Registry. Most states require your certification to be active and in good standing, along with a criminal background check and proof of recent paid CNA employment.
How do I renew my CNA certification?
Most states require renewal every two years. You typically need to provide proof of at least eight hours of paid CNA work during the renewal period, submit a renewal application, and pay any required fee.
Next Steps
Once you meet your state’s CNA license requirements—by completing approved training, passing both exam components, and applying to the Nurse Aide Registry—you become eligible to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant. From there, you can pursue employment, renew your certification every two years, or apply for reciprocity if relocating to another state.
