CNA Certification Requirements by State
Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant is one of the fastest paths into healthcare work — and, for many, the first step toward becoming an RN.
Every state certifies Nursing Assistants through a state-approved training program (federally mandated at a minimum of 75 hours, though many states require more) followed by a competency exam covering both a written/oral portion and a hands-on skills demonstration. States maintain their own CNA registries, and certification typically needs renewing every 1–2 years, usually tied to a minimum number of hours actually worked as a CNA during that period.
State guides for this hub are in progress — check back as we publish them.
Thinking beyond CNA: the path to RN
A large share of people researching CNA certification aren’t looking for a permanent role — they’re using it as a paid entry point into healthcare while working toward becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN). This matters for how you should plan your certification:
- CNA experience counts toward nursing school clinical exposure and makes your application more competitive at many programs, even though it isn’t a formal prerequisite everywhere.
- Many employers (especially hospital systems) offer tuition assistance or LPN/RN bridge programs specifically for their own CNA staff — worth asking about before you self-fund nursing school separately.
- CNA-to-RN bridge and accelerated programs exist in many states, letting your certified experience shorten the path compared to starting nursing school with no healthcare background at all.
If becoming an RN is your actual goal, treat your state’s CNA guide as step one of a longer plan, not the destination — we’ll cover state-specific CNA-to-RN bridge pathways as we expand this hub.
How long does it take to become a CNA?
Most state-approved programs run 4 to 12 weeks, reflecting the federal minimum of 75 training hours (many states require more) plus time to schedule and pass the competency exam.
Do I need a high school diploma to become a CNA?
Most states and training programs require a high school diploma or GED, though some programs accept enrollment without one if paired with additional testing — check your specific state and program.
Does CNA certification expire if I stop working?
Yes, in most states — CNA certification typically requires renewal every 1–2 years and often requires proof of a minimum number of hours actually worked as a CNA during that period, not just paying a renewal fee. Extended time away from the field can require retesting.