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Becoming a CNA in Pennsylvania

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Pennsylvania involves several steps, from meeting the basic requirements to passing the state certification exam. This guide outlines each stage in the process and provides helpful details to ensure you are well-prepared. Here’s everything you need to know to become a CNA in Pennsylvania.

 

Steps to Become a CNA in Pennsylvania

  1. Meet Basic Requirements: Ensure you meet all the necessary qualifications for CNA school admission and state certification requirements.

  2. Attend a School: Complete a Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE)-approved CNA training program.

  3. Pass the CNA Exam: Take and pass the Pennsylvania CNA certification exam, which includes both written and skills tests.

  4. Certification Registration and Upkeep: Register with the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry and renew your certification regularly.



1. Meet Basic Requirements

Before enrolling in a CNA program in Pennsylvania, you must meet a few essential qualifications. These ensure that you are ready to begin training and eventually work as a CNA.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Age Requirement: You must be at least 16 years old to start CNA training in Pennsylvania.

  • Education Requirement: A high school diploma or equivalent (GED) is required.

  • Health Status: You should be in good physical health and provide up-to-date immunization records.

  • Background Check: You must pass a criminal background check and register your fingerprints. This background check helps ensure that you have no disqualifying criminal history.

Meeting these basic requirements is the first step toward becoming a CNA in Pennsylvania. Once you’ve confirmed that you meet these qualifications, the next step is to find a state-approved training program.

2. Attend a School

The next stage in becoming a CNA in Pennsylvania is attending a state-approved CNA training program. These programs are designed to teach you the essential skills needed to provide basic patient care and prepare you for the certification exam.

Training Program Requirements:

In Pennsylvania, the CNA training program must include a minimum of 80 hours of instruction. The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) provides a list of approved programs across the state.

  • Classroom Instruction: At least 50 hours of classroom training. This will cover theoretical aspects such as infection control, patient rights, and basic medical procedures.

  • Clinical Training: At least 30 hours of supervised clinical experience. Clinical training involves hands-on practice in a healthcare facility under the supervision of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN).

Most CNA programs recommended by the Pennsylvania Department of Education are 120 hours in total, with 37.5 hours of clinical training under direct supervision. Some schools offer accelerated programs, which can be completed in 4 to 6 weeks, while others might take up to 15 weeks, depending on the schedule.

Where to Find CNA Programs:

  • Community Colleges: Many local community colleges offer CNA training programs.

  • Trade Schools: These schools often provide short-term CNA certification courses.

  • Healthcare Facilities: Some nursing homes and hospitals offer free CNA training if you agree to work for them after completing your certification.

You can use the Approved Nurse Aide Training Program list provided by the PDE to find a program near you. Some programs also offer hybrid options with CNA classes online for the theoretical portion, but clinical training must always be completed in person.

Cost of CNA Training:

The cost of a CNA program in Pennsylvania ranges from $500 to $1,500, depending on the institution. Some programs offer financial aid or payment plans. Additionally, certain employers, like nursing homes, may cover the cost of training if you commit to working for them after certification.

Featured CNA Programs in Pennsylvania

Job Corps Philadelphia

This program stands out for its flexible scheduling options, hands-on clinical training, and job placement support, helping students gain practical experience and transition smoothly into healthcare roles. Read more…
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Penn Asian Senior Services (PASSi)

Penn Asian Vocational Institute’s CNA program provides a thorough seven-week curriculum, blending classroom instruction, lab experience, and clinical training to fully prepare students for Pennsylvania’s certification exam. Guided by experienced nurses, students gain both foundational knowledge and hands-on skills essential Read more…
$1,600
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Redeemer Health

Redeemer Health’s program combines classroom learning with hands-on training, offering tuition reimbursement for graduates hired at affiliated long-term care facilities, enhancing both skills and career prospects. Read more…
$1,450
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CareBridge Academy CNA Training School

CareBridge Academy offers an accelerated 3.5-week program with lifetime job placement assistance, hands-on clinical experience, and flexible payment optionsóideal for quickly starting a healthcare career. Read more…
$1,495
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Philadelphia Academy For Nurse Aide Training, Inc. (PANAT)

PANAT offers a fast-paced, four-week nurse aide program with hands-on training, CPR and dementia care certifications, job placement assistance, and employer partnerships for enhanced career opportunities. Read more…
$1,450
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Tranquility and Allegiance Academy

Tranquility and Allegiance Academy offers a 103-hour fast-track nurse aide program with flexible class times, expert instructors, and a three-week completion time, making it ideal for rapid career entry. Read more…
$1,800
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Community College of Philadelphia – Main Campus

The Nurse Aide Training program offers flexible scheduling, scholarships, and three college credits, providing a comprehensive, affordable pathway for students pursuing healthcare careers. Read more…
$1,495
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Quality Care Nursing

Quality Care Nursing offers a unique tuition sponsorship with job placement through Wesley Enhanced Living, plus flexible schedules and immersive clinical experience for real-world readiness. Read more…
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HTTI

HTTI’s Nurse Aide Program offers in-depth, hands-on training with flexible scheduling options and free tuition for qualifying students aged 17-24, making it accessible and career-focused. Read more…
$2,356
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3. Pass the CNA Exam

After completing your CNA training program, the next step is to pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam. Pennsylvania uses Pearson VUE to administer this exam, which is required for certification.

Exam Structure:

The Pennsylvania CNA exam consists of two parts:

  1. Written (or Oral) Exam:

  • The written exam includes 70 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as infection control, patient care, and emergency procedures.

  • You may opt for an oral exam instead of a written test. This version includes 60 multiple-choice questions and 10 reading comprehension questions. The oral exam is also available in Spanish.

  1. Skills Exam:

  • The skills portion of the exam requires you to perform 5 clinical skills selected at random. These could include tasks like taking vital signs, assisting with patient mobility, or providing personal care.

  • You must complete all 5 skills correctly within 25 minutes to pass this portion of the exam.

How to Register for the Exam:

Once you complete your CNA training program, you can register for the certification exam by contacting one of the regional testing centers. Your school will assist you with the application process. You must pass the CNA exam within 2 years of completing your training, or you will need to retake the CNA course.

Exam Fees:

  • Written & Skills Evaluation: $102

  • Oral & Skills Evaluation: $102

  • Written Exam Retest: $32

  • Oral Exam Retest: $32

  • Skills Exam Retest: $70

Preparing for the Exam:

  • To prepare for the written exam, consider taking a CNA practice test. This will help you familiarize yourself with the exam format and questions. Take our CNA practice test here.

  • For the skills exam, practice performing the required tasks with a classmate or instructor until you feel confident in your abilities.

On Exam Day:

  • Bring two forms of identification, including one with a photo, such as a driver’s license.

  • Carry your original Social Security card.

  • Wear non-skid, closed-toe shoes for the skills portion.

  • Bring two No. 2 pencils and a watch with a second hand for timing your skills.

4. Certification Registration and Upkeep

Once you pass both portions of the exam, you will be listed on the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry. You are now officially certified to work as a CNA in the state.

How to Maintain Your Certification:

  • Certification Renewal: In Pennsylvania, CNA certifications must be renewed every 2 years. To maintain an active status, you need to complete 48 hours of in-service training and provide proof that you’ve worked at least one paid day as a CNA during the certification period.

  • Work Requirements: CNAs are required to work at least 8 hours within the previous 24 months to remain certified. This work must be in a paid position at a licensed healthcare facility, such as a hospital, nursing home, or home health agency.

Renewal Process:

  • You will receive a renewal notice from the Pennsylvania Department of Health. To renew, submit the required renewal application along with documentation showing proof of work and in-service training.

  • If your certification lapses and you have not worked as a CNA within the past 24 months, you may need to complete additional training or retake the CNA exam.

Verifying Your Certification:

  • To verify your CNA certification status in Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry website or contact the Division of Nursing Care Facilities.

 

CNA Certification Summary

 

Requirement Details
Training Hours 80 hours (50 classroom, 30 clinical)
Exam Components Written/Oral and Skills Evaluation
Exam Cost $102 total
Renewal Period Every 2 years
Work Requirement for Renewal 8 hours in the last 24 months
In-Service Training 48 hours every 2 years

By following these steps, you can successfully become a CNA in Pennsylvania and begin working in healthcare. It’s es

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