In order to work as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in the United States, you'll need to acquire a CNA license or certification. Read on to learn more about the steps you need to take to become licensed.
Obtaining Your CNA License
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), aspiring CNAs are required by the federal government to complete at least 75 hours of classroom and clinical training and pass an exam administered by the state where you plan to work in order to become licensed. Many schools offer certificate programs that will help prepare you to take your state's licensing exam, as well as train you for the type of work you'll be doing as a CNA.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutThisOccupation">Important Facts About This Occupation</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td>Median Salary (2021) </td><td> $30,310</td></tr>
<tr><td>Job Outlook (2021-2031) </td><td> 5% growth (much faster than average)</td></tr>
<tr><td>Entry-level Education</td><td> High school diploma or equivalent</td></tr>
<tr><td>On-the-job Training</td><td> Brief period of on-the-job training</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---CNATrainingPrograms">CNA Training Programs</h3><p>Most of the CNA certificate programs you'll find consist of approximately 96 hours of training. Typical programs are composed of at least 100 clock hours of classroom instruction and clinical rotations. Programs are commonly designed to help prepare you to communicate effectively with patients, properly make beds, prepare hospital rooms and handle specialized materials and equipment. They can also provide you with a basic understanding of patients' rights and the legal aspects of the nursing profession.
</p><p>Topics you'll study in the classroom portion of your training include anatomy, physiology and mental health. Many schools may also have special requirements you'll need to meet before enrolling in their program, such as undergoing a criminal background check and taking a tuberculosis skin test.
</p><h3 id="section---CNALicensing">CNA Licensing</h3><p>Although all states require CNAs to be licensed, specific licensing requirements vary from state to state. You can look into the CNA licensing requirements on most states' government websites. For example, the state of Florida has its own Certified Nursing Assistants Council on the Florida Department of Health website (<i>www.doh.state.fl.us</i>). If you're a Florida resident seeking a CNA license, you can apply for licensing through this website. Other states offer similar online services, including license verification and license renewal information.</p>
