CNA License Requirements
What it takes to become a CNA: training hours, competency exam, background check, and age and education criteria. Federal minimums plus how each state differs.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license requirements vary by state. Each state regulates its own training hours, competency exams, and registry procedures. The guide below explains the standard certification process and highlights key state differences.
CNA License Requirements: A Quick Look
To qualify for CNA certification, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass the CNA exam, and be listed on your state’s Nurse Aide Registry. The certification requirements generally include:
- Eligibility Check — Each state establishes its own minimum standards for CNA candidates. Common eligibility requirements include:
- Minimum Age: 16 or 18, depending on state regulations
- Education: High school diploma or GED, if required
- Work Authorization: Legal authorization to work in the United States
- Background Screening: Fingerprint-based criminal background check
- Medical Clearance: Physical exam, tuberculosis (TB) test, and required immunizations
- CNA Training — You must complete a state-approved nurse aide training program that meets all federal and state standards.
- Program Hours: Minimum of 75 total hours, as required by the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 (OBRA)
- Classroom Instruction: At least 16 hours before beginning clinical practice
- Clinical Practice: Minimum of 16 supervised hours in a licensed healthcare setting
- Core Topics: Infection control, patient care, communication, safety, residents’ rights, and abuse prevention
- Approved Providers: Community colleges, vocational schools, high schools, and long-term care facilities
- Reimbursement Policy: If hired by a Medicare- or Medicaid-certified facility within 12 months, your employer must reimburse your training and testing costs
- CNA Exam — To earn certification, you must pass both the written and skills components of the CNA exam.
- Written Exam: 60–70 multiple-choice questions completed in 90 minutes
- Skills Exam: Performance of five randomly selected nursing assistant skills within 31–40 minutes; hand hygiene is always included
- Approved Testing Vendors: Most states use Prometric, Credentia, or Headmaster
- Completion Timeline: Both sections must be passed within 24 months of completing training
- Retake Policy: Most states allow up to three attempts before retraining is required
- State Certification — After passing the exam, you must complete all state certification and registry requirements.
- Required Documentation: Proof of training completion, exam results, background check clearance, and applicable fees
- Processing Period: Certification and registry updates are typically completed within two to six weeks
- Registry Verification: Once approved, your name appears on your state’s Nurse Aide Registry as an active CNA
CNA License Requirements by State
Select your state below to view CNA certification requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a high school diploma to start CNA training?
Requirements vary by state and training provider. For example, California does not require a high school diploma or GED, while Georgia allows students to enroll at age 16 with demonstrated reading proficiency. Always confirm eligibility with your training provider and state Nurse Aide Registry.
How many hours of CNA training are required?
Federal standards require at least 75 total training hours, including a minimum of 16 supervised clinical hours. Many states exceed this requirement—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 unsuccessful after three tries, you must complete another approved CNA program before retesting.
Can I work while waiting for my exam results?
Yes. Federal regulations allow CNA trainees to work in certified facilities for up to four months while completing training and testing. You must pass both exams within that timeframe to continue working as a CNA.
How do I transfer my CNA certification to another state?
Submit a reciprocity application to the Nurse Aide Registry in your new state. Your certification must be active and in good standing, and you may need to provide a background check and proof of recent paid CNA employment.
How do I renew my CNA certification?
Most states require renewal every two years. You must provide proof of at least eight hours of paid CNA work during the renewal period and submit a renewal application with any required fees.
Next Steps
After completing a state-approved training program and passing both exam components, you are officially certified to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Keep your certification active through timely renewal, and if you relocate, apply for reciprocity in your new state.
