Yes, a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) can absolutely become a Registered Nurse (RN). In fact, many RNs start their nursing career as CNAs because the hands-on patient care experience is excellent preparation for nursing school and the NCLEX-RN exam. Here’s how the transition typically works:
Common Pathways from CNA to RN
- LPN/LVN First (Optional Bridge)
- Many CNAs become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) first through a 12–18 month program.
- After gaining experience as an LPN, they enter an LPN-to-RN bridge program (usually 12–24 months).
- Direct CNA-to-ADN or BSN Route (Most Common)
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): 2–3 year community college program. Many schools give preference or extra points in admission to applicants with CNA experience or an active CNA license.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): 4-year university degree. Some accelerated BSN programs accept CNAs with prior healthcare experience.
Steps to Become an RN as a CNA
- Hold an active CNA certification (often required for nursing program admission).
- Complete prerequisite courses (anatomy, physiology, microbiology, psychology, etc.).
- Apply and get accepted into an accredited nursing program (ADN or BSN).
- Graduate from the program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Apply for RN licensure in your state.
Advantages CNAs Have
- Real-world patient care skills (bathing, vital signs, ADLs)
- Familiarity with medical terminology and healthcare settings
- Strong letters of recommendation from nurses/supervisors
- Higher acceptance rates into many nursing programs
- Often eligible for tuition reimbursement from employers
Timeframe
- ADN route: 2–3 years after prerequisites
- BSN route: 3–4 years after prerequisites
- With prior LPN: 1–2 years via bridge programs
In short, being a CNA is one of the strongest stepping stones to becoming an RN. Thousands of nurses successfully make this transition every year.