Hello! Welcome to another session where we discuss the length of time it takes to become a Certified Nursing Assistant.
After reading through, you will be able to answer the question “how long does it take to become a CNA,” the fast-track options to becoming a CNA, and more.
This article highlights the following:
- The Duration Required to Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program
- The Duration Required to Complete In-Person Clinical Training
- The Duration Required to Pass a State-Approved CNA Certification Exam
Let’s get right into it!
Earn Your High School Diploma or GED (Duration)
A high school diploma is a school-leaving certificate awarded to pupils who have completed high school in North America.
A four-year course of study is normally required to obtain a high school diploma, from grade 9 to grade 12.
However, this schedule isn’t suitable for everyone.
External considerations such as a full-time job, family obligations, or financial worries can challenge meeting the high school graduation criteria.
Although preparation and study are essential for a Graduate Equivalency Degree (GED), students may not attend several programs.
You can select which program is suitable for you based on your schedule and ability to achieve these prerequisites.
CNA students in Texas are not required to have a high school diploma or a GED, but they must pass some criminal background checks.
Most people who do not have these crimes on their record can enroll in a CNA program and begin their training right away.
Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program (Duration)
California CNA training programs last 6 to 12 weeks and need more hours than those in other states.
Classroom training or coursework and clinical skills are both part of the programs.
They also prepare students to pass the state-mandated NNAAP Competency Exam.
A CNA student who enrolls in a Texas-approved training program part-time and works only a few hours per week for six months may complete the program in six months, whereas students may complete an expedited CNA program in three to six weeks.
CNA training programs in Maryland vary, ranging from four to twelve weeks.
CNA training schools in Maryland offer a minimum of 100 hours of total training, with at least 40 hours of clinical practice tests or skills tests.
The time to complete a CNA program in Las Vegas, Nevada, varies depending on the school.
A total of 75 hours are required in Nevada, with a portion of the time done in clinical settings (hands-on).
Community colleges, nursing schools, vocational institutions, The Red Cross, and healthcare facilities offer CNA courses.
CNA classes in New Jersey can span anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks.
This CNA training course is 90 hours long, with 50 hours in the classroom and 40 hours of training on the job.
You might be able to acquire free CNA training.
For example, some hospitals and nursing homes offer new employees free nursing assistant training.
Complete In-Person Clinical Training (Duration)
Most states need CNA classes between 16 and 100 hours long, depending on the total amount of clinical experience required.
Students can apply their theoretical knowledge in either an accredited or long-term care facility during their nursing assistant training.
During the clinical, a Registered Nurse instructor supervises the students personally.
Having at least 100-150 hours of clinical experience, ideally across a few months, is regarded as competitive.
A state-approved CNA training program that includes at least 100 hours of supervised clinical training and 60 hours of classroom teaching is required to practice as a certified nursing assistant in California.
Pass a State-Approved CNA Certification Exam (Duration)
A qualifying candidate for the CNA state exam has 12 months from the program completion date to pass the Nursing Assistant Exam (administered by the state’s board of nursing) and get listed on the state’s CNA registry.
You must retake a CNA training program three times if you fail the state exam.
Conclusion
A certified nurse assistant (CNA) is an excellent way to enter the field of nursing without having to spend years in college studying for a degree.
You can start working as a CNA and earn valuable experience in a short amount of time if you obtain a CNA license.
It is ideal for many people who want to pursue nursing further.
Comparing its process to other medical professions makes becoming a certified nursing assistant quick and easy.
While a considerable lot of labor is required, few healthcare occupations provide the fast-track certifications and credentials that this one provides.
CNA training can be completed in about a year, making it one of the most appealing options for people seeking to enter the medical industry without a degree.
Being a Certified Nursing Aide or assistant can take as little as 1 year and as much as 6 years.
For candidates that already have a minimum of a high school diploma or a GED, the training program and the state’s exam will require a minimum of one year (up to six months for the training program)
Candidates without a high school diploma will need to complete a high school program for four years, enroll in the state’s CNA program within 12 months, and pass the CNA exam up to 12 months maximum from the last day of the training program.
In addition, CNAs must complete a minimum of 48 hours of continuing education (for CNA career path advancement) every two years as a requirement for recertification.
FAQs
How many months does it take to become a CNA?
It can take between four to sixteen weeks to become a CNA, depending on the certification program you choose and your state’s criteria. Some certification courses can take six months to complete, while others may take longer if you’re juggling other obligations.
What is the fastest way to become a CNA?
It can take between four to sixteen weeks to become a CNA, depending on the certification program you choose and your state’s criteria. Some certification courses can take six months to complete, while others may take longer if you’re juggling other obligations.
How long does CNA last?
The average CNA certification lasts two years. A licensed nursing assistant can renew the certification by submitting a renewal form and cost as long as the nursing assistant has worked (the exact number of employment hours to be eligible will differ by state).
How much time do I need to get a CNA certificate in New York?
The program takes 6-15 weeks to complete and includes 60 hours of classroom instruction and 100 hours of clinical training under the supervision of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Registered Nurse (RN). CNA lessons are also available in 4-week increments in some expedited programs.
How long does it take to get a CNA certificate in Miami?
The program takes roughly 120 hours or 4 weeks on a full-time basis. In addition, candidates must attend a Nursing Assistant Orientation, pass a physical and vaccination test, and a drug test and a background check conducted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
