Find CNA training that fits your life.

Complete a state-approved CNA training program, meet any background-check and health requirements, pass the knowledge and clinical-skills tests, and complete your state registry application. Training usually takes 4–12 weeks; including testing and registry processing, the full process commonly takes about 1–4 months.

You can complete some CNA theory lessons online, but certification normally cannot be earned through an online course alone. State-approved programs must also include supervised practical or clinical training. Online or hybrid CNA programs commonly take 4–12 weeks, including hands-on requirements. Confirm state approval and clinical placement before enrolling.

Federal nursing-facility rules require at least 75 training hours, including 16 supervised practical hours. State requirements commonly range from 75–160 hours, although some programs may approach 180 hours. States can also set rules for background checks, health screenings, exams, registry applications, and renewal. Browse CNA schools by state and verify current rules with the state authority. Read the federal training requirements.

First confirm that the CNA school appears on your state’s approved-program list. Compare at least three CNA schools based on total cost, training hours, clinical placement, schedule, exam preparation, and recent exam-pass results. Ask for written confirmation of tuition, additional fees, refund policies, and upcoming class dates before paying.

Self-paid CNA training commonly costs around $600–$2,500, although some private programs may exceed $3,000. Books, uniforms, background checks, health screenings, and exam fees can add approximately $150–$500. Employer-sponsored nursing-home training may cost $0, while grants or workforce funding may reduce the student’s cost. Use the directory to compare published CNA tuition and support options.

Accelerated and fast-track CNA training generally refer to completing the required instruction through a more intensive schedule. These programs commonly take 4–6 weeks, compared with 6–12 weeks for standard courses. Fast-track training does not remove required classroom, practical, clinical, or competency-exam requirements. View listed fast-track CNA programs.

Many nursing assistant schools offer evening, weekend, or part-time CNA classes. These programs often take approximately 8–16 weeks, depending on how frequently classes meet. Clinical training may still take place during weekday or daytime hours, so verify the complete classroom and clinical schedule before enrolling. Find CNA programs with weekend classes.

The CNA competency exam normally includes a written or oral knowledge test and a hands-on clinical-skills test. Combined exam fees are commonly around $75–$200, depending on the state and testing provider. Knowledge tests may take 60–90 minutes, while skills tests often take approximately 30–45 minutes. Retesting normally requires an additional fee. Review Prometric’s nurse aide exam information.

Medicaid is not normally a general student grant. However, nursing-home employers may provide CNA training for $0 or reimburse qualifying training costs when someone is hired within 12 months of certification. WIOA, workforce agencies, and community-college grants may provide approximately $500–$3,000, depending on local funding and eligibility. Find programs listing financial aid or read the CMS guidance on free and reimbursed CNA training.

A newly certified CNA commonly starts at approximately $15–$20 per hour. Hospitals, higher-cost locations, night shifts, and weekend positions may pay around $20–$25 or more per hour. The national median was approximately $19 per hour, or $39,530 annually, in May 2024, but local starting wages can differ considerably. See the latest BLS wage information.

Some CNA schools offer résumé help, interview preparation, employer referrals, career fairs, or introductions to local healthcare employers. Job-placement assistance is not a job guarantee. Ask what percentage of recent graduates found relevant work within 60 or 90 days, which employers hired them, and whether support continues after graduation. Find CNA programs listing job-placement assistance.