Wondering how to get a CNA license and what the process actually looks like from start to finish? Although many people refer to it as a "CNA license," Certified Nursing Assistant certification is a state-issued credential that authorizes you to provide direct patient care in hospitals, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and other healthcare settings.
This guide walks you through every step involved in earning your CNA certification, from meeting eligibility requirements and completing an approved program to passing your state exam and maintaining your certification once it's active.
If you're exploring how to get a CNA license and aren't sure where to begin, start with our CNA program location search to find state-approved programs in your area.
What Is a CNA License (and Is It Really a License?)
A CNA license, or more precisely, a CNA certification or nurse aide credential, is a state-issued authorization that allows an individual to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant. In most states, this credential is maintained on a state nurse aide registry, which employers are required to verify before hiring a CNA.
Unlike a nursing degree, which requires years of academic study, CNA certification is earned through a shorter state-approved program combined with a competency examination. Requirements vary by state, but every state follows a federally established framework under the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1987, which sets a minimum of 75 program hours, including at least 16 hours of supervised clinical practice.
Understanding what a CNA license is and how it differs from other healthcare credentials is an important first step before enrolling in a program.
How to Get a CNA License: Step by Step
While specific requirements vary by state, the pathway to CNA certification follows a consistent structure nationwide. Here is what to expect at each stage.
| Step | What You'll Do |
|---|---|
| 1. Confirm Eligibility | Meet your state's age, identification, and background check requirements. |
| 2. Complete a State-Approved Program | Finish the required classroom instruction and supervised clinical training. |
| 3. Complete Clinical Hours | Practice hands-on patient care in an approved healthcare setting. |
| 4. Pass the Competency Exam | Successfully complete both the written (or oral) and clinical skills portions of the state exam. |
| 5. Join the State Nurse Aide Registry | Once certified, your name is added to your state's nurse aide registry. |
| 6. Maintain Your Certification | Renew your certification according to your state's requirements. |
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Step 1. Confirm Eligibility
Before enrolling in a program, candidates must meet their state's basic eligibility requirements. Most states require candidates to be at least 16 or 18 years old, present a valid government-issued ID, and pass a criminal background check. Some states also require candidates not to appear on a nurse aide abuse or misconduct registry. Eligibility requirements vary, so always verify current rules with your state's health authority before applying.
Step 2. Enroll in a State-Approved Program
To earn CNA certification, candidates must complete a program approved by their state's health or licensing authority. These programs are offered through community colleges, healthcare facilities, and online hybrid providers. Many programs allow the classroom portion to be completed online, while the clinical hours must be completed in person at an approved facility.
Federal law requires a minimum of 75 total program hours, though many states require considerably more. California, for example, requires 160 hours — 60 hours of classroom instruction and 100 hours of supervised clinical practice, according to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).* Class, course, and program lengths may vary.
Use our CNA program location search to find state-approved programs near you, or explore our CNA lesson guide for free information on what the coursework typically covers.
*Source: California Department of Public Health (CDPH), Nurse Assistant Training Program. https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/Nurse-Assistant-Training-Program-Applicants.aspx
Step 3. Complete Your Clinical Hours
The clinical component of a CNA program is where students apply classroom knowledge in a real healthcare setting under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse or instructor. During clinical hours, students practice essential patient care skills, including assisting with hygiene, monitoring vital signs, supporting mobility, and documenting observations. This is usually done with patients in an approved facility.
This portion of the program cannot be completed online. No state permits clinical hours to be satisfied through remote or simulated instruction alone.
Step 4. Pass the State Competency Exam
After completing a state-approved program, candidates must pass a two-part competency exam to earn certification. The exam includes a written or oral knowledge section and a hands-on clinical skills evaluation. Both parts must be passed to receive certification. Most states contract this exam to a third-party testing vendor such as Credentia, Prometric, or Pearson VUE, depending on the state.
The written portion typically covers patient rights, infection control, safety procedures, communication, and basic nursing care. The clinical skills portion requires candidates to demonstrate specific hands-on procedures in front of a trained evaluator. Candidates who do not pass one or both sections on the first attempt are generally permitted additional tries within a specified timeframe, though limits vary by state.
Step 5. Be Listed on the State Nurse Aide Registry
Once you pass both portions of the exam, results are submitted to the appropriate state agency, which issues your certification and adds your name to the state nurse aide registry. In most states, employers verify that your certification appears as active on the state nurse aide registry before you begin working.
Step 6. Maintain Your Certification
CNA certification must be renewed according to your state's schedule, typically every 2 years. Renewal requirements vary by state and often include maintaining active employment as a nursing assistant. Some states also require continuing education or additional training. Failing to renew on time can result in an inactive or expired status, which may require retesting to restore.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Most state-approved CNA programs require candidates to hold a high school diploma or GED prior to enrollment. Some states set this as a regulatory requirement, while others leave it to individual programs to determine. Candidates who do not hold a diploma or an equivalent credential may not be eligible for enrollment in most programs. Always confirm admission requirements directly with your chosen program before applying.
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State-approved CNA programs cover both classroom knowledge and hands-on clinical skills. Common topics include human anatomy and physiology, patient rights and dignity, infection control and safety protocols, communication and interpersonal skills, basic nursing procedures, and emergency response. The clinical portion gives students the opportunity to practice these skills in a real healthcare setting under direct supervision. For a preview of what online coursework typically covers, explore our CNA lesson guide.
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The CNA certification exam is a two-part evaluation that candidates must pass to earn their state nurse aide credential. The written or oral section tests knowledge of patient care principles, safety, and nursing fundamentals. The clinical skills section requires a hands-on demonstration of specific procedures before an evaluator. Both sections must be passed to receive certification. Testing vendors and exam formats vary by state.
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State-approved CNA programs can be found through your state's health or licensing authority website, which maintains a list of approved providers. You can also use our CNA program location search to browse programs by zip code and find options near you. When evaluating programs, confirm state approval first. Completing an unapproved program means you cannot sit for the certification exam. Class, course, and program lengths may vary.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is provided for general informational purposes only. CNA certification requirements, program hour minimums, exam formats, and renewal rules vary by state and are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with your state's health or licensing authority before enrolling in a program. Financial aid may be available to those who qualify; eligibility requirements vary and no financial aid is guaranteed. Class, course, and program lengths may vary. Completing a CNA program does not guarantee any specific outcome.