How long does it take to become a CNA?
Most CNA programs include classroom instruction, clinical experience, and a state-mandated competency exam. The classroom instruction covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, nutrition, patient care, and infection control. The clinical experience provides students with the opportunity to work with patients under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN). The competency exam tests students on their knowledge and skills in order to ensure that they are competent to provide care to patients.
After completing a CNA program, you must pass the state-mandated competency exam in order to become certified as a CNA. Once certified, you can start working as a CNA in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and assisted living facilities.
The table below provides an overview of the time it takes to become a CNA in each state.
| State | Time to Complete CNA Program |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 4 weeks |
| Alaska | 12 weeks |
| Arizona | 8 weeks |
| Arkansas | 6 weeks |
| California | 8 weeks |
| Colorado | 6 weeks |
| Connecticut | 8 weeks |
| Delaware | 6 weeks |
| Florida | 8 weeks |
| Georgia | 6 weeks |
| Hawaii | 8 weeks |
| Idaho | 6 weeks |
| Illinois | 8 weeks |
| Indiana | 6 weeks |
| Iowa | 6 weeks |
| Kansas | 6 weeks |
| Kentucky | 6 weeks |
| Louisiana | 8 weeks |
| Maine | 8 weeks |
| Maryland | 8 weeks |
| Massachusetts | 8 weeks |
| Michigan | 8 weeks |
| Minnesota | 8 weeks |
| Mississippi | 6 weeks |
| Missouri | 6 weeks |
| Montana | 6 weeks |
| Nebraska | 6 weeks |
| Nevada | 8 weeks |
| New Hampshire | 8 weeks |
| New Jersey | 8 weeks |
| New Mexico | 6 weeks |
| New York | 8 weeks |
| North Carolina | 6 weeks |
| North Dakota | 6 weeks |
| Ohio | 8 weeks |
| Oklahoma | 6 weeks |
| Oregon | 8 weeks |
| Pennsylvania | 8 weeks |
| Rhode Island | 8 weeks |
| South Carolina | 8 weeks |
| South Dakota | 6 weeks |
| Tennessee | 6 weeks |
| Texas | 8 weeks |
| Utah | 6 weeks |
| Vermont | 8 weeks |
| Virginia | 8 weeks |
| Washington | 8 weeks |
| West Virginia | 8 weeks |
| Wisconsin | 6 weeks |
| Wyoming | 8 weeks |