The cost of CNA certification in the United States typically ranges from $400 to $2,000, depending on the training program, location, and provider. This total includes tuition, textbooks, supplies, and the state competency exam fee.
Breakdown of Common Costs:
- Training Program Tuition: $300 to $1,500
Offered by community colleges, vocational schools, nursing homes, and online institutions with in person clinicals. Some employers, including hospitals and long term care facilities, offer free or subsidized training in exchange for a work commitment. - State Competency Exam Fee: $60 to $150
Required to earn certification; includes a written (or oral) knowledge test and a hands on skills evaluation. Fees vary by state. - Background Check and Fingerprinting: $30 to $80
Mandated by most state nursing boards. - Textbooks and Supplies: $50 to $150
May include uniforms, gait belts, blood pressure cuffs, and study materials.
In some cases, the total cost can be reduced or fully covered. For example:
- Workforce development programs (e.g., through local WIOA offices) may fund CNA training for eligible individuals.
- Medicaid-funded facilities often sponsor CNA training for new hires.
- Military spouses may qualify for MyCAA grants.
CNA certification usually takes 4 to 12 weeks to complete and requires a minimum of 75 clinical hours (varies by state). Upon passing the state exam, candidates are placed on the state Nurse Aide Registry and can begin working immediately.
Certilyst offers affordable, high quality exam preparation to help candidates pass the CNA competency test on their first attempt reducing the risk of retake fees and delays. Access practice tests and skills checklists at Certilyst CNA Exam Prep .
For state specific requirements and approved training programs, visit the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ Nursing Home Compare Training Resources .