Skip to content
Home » Pennsylvania » Page 2

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

Training and Education Fund

This program offers robust tuition assistance, job placement services with 97 employer partners, and career ladder support, providing students a clear path to advancement in long-term care. Read more…
[gd_compare_button badge=” icon_class=” badge_after=” open_in=” icon_class_after=” bg_color=’#0073aa’ txt_color=’#ffffff’ size=” alignment=” tooltip_text=” tooltip_text_show=” type=” shadow=” color=” mt=” mr=” mb=” ml=” ]

Vincentian Home

Vincentian Home offers hands-on training with potential job placement, a $3,000 sign-on bonus, and extensive employee benefits, providing an ideal start for those entering the healthcare field. Read more…
[gd_compare_button badge=” icon_class=” badge_after=” open_in=” icon_class_after=” bg_color=’#0073aa’ txt_color=’#ffffff’ size=” alignment=” tooltip_text=” tooltip_text_show=” type=” shadow=” color=” mt=” mr=” mb=” ml=” ]

East End Health & Rehab

East End Health & Rehab’s program offers hands-on training in a real-world setting with potential job placement, plus exposure to specialized care services like cardiac, pulmonary, and memory care management. Read more…
[gd_compare_button badge=” icon_class=” badge_after=” open_in=” icon_class_after=” bg_color=’#0073aa’ txt_color=’#ffffff’ size=” alignment=” tooltip_text=” tooltip_text_show=” type=” shadow=” color=” mt=” mr=” mb=” ml=” ]

UPMC Senior Communities

Overall, the UPMC Senior Communities program provides an exceptional training experience for those interested in senior care. Its hands-on learning approach, flexible scheduling, and job placement services make it a compelling option for students seeking a successful healthcare career. Read more…
[gd_compare_button badge=” icon_class=” badge_after=” open_in=” icon_class_after=” bg_color=’#0073aa’ txt_color=’#ffffff’ size=” alignment=” tooltip_text=” tooltip_text_show=” type=” shadow=” color=” mt=” mr=” mb=” ml=” ]

Pittsburgh Job Corps Center

The Pittsburgh Job Corps Center offers free, hands-on CNA training with nationally recognized certifications and direct job placement services, led by an experienced nurse with 25+ years in healthcare. Read more…
[gd_compare_button badge=” icon_class=” badge_after=” open_in=” icon_class_after=” bg_color=’#0073aa’ txt_color=’#ffffff’ size=” alignment=” tooltip_text=” tooltip_text_show=” type=” shadow=” color=” mt=” mr=” mb=” ml=” ]

Presbyterian Senior Care

Presbyterian SeniorCare offers paid training, covers all program costs, and guarantees full-time employment upon certification, making it an exceptional opportunity for career growth in healthcare. Read more…
[gd_compare_button badge=” icon_class=” badge_after=” open_in=” icon_class_after=” bg_color=’#0073aa’ txt_color=’#ffffff’ size=” alignment=” tooltip_text=” tooltip_text_show=” type=” shadow=” color=” mt=” mr=” mb=” ml=” ]

CCAC North Campus

CCAC’s program offers a quick, 24-day certification with hands-on clinical experience and Pennsylvania Department of Education approval, making it ideal for fast entry into healthcare careers. Read more…
$1,999
[gd_compare_button badge=” icon_class=” badge_after=” open_in=” icon_class_after=” bg_color=’#0073aa’ txt_color=’#ffffff’ size=” alignment=” tooltip_text=” tooltip_text_show=” type=” shadow=” color=” mt=” mr=” mb=” ml=” ]

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

Other Local CNA Programs

id Name Image Website Street Address City State Zip Code Map Link plus_code Phone latitude longitude latlong Category Reviews Rating 5star 4star 3star 2star 1star description Monday Hours Tuesday Hours Wednesday Hours Thursday Hours Friday Hours Saturday Hours Sunday Hours Details
1,543 Albright Care Services AF1QipNalJ-z-rBe-Pc8OR9C5lxiO-p8IBoaQ0QdwZVq=w430-h240-k-no https://albrightcare.org/ 90 Maplewood Dr Lewisburg PA 17837 X4G7+MH Lewisburg, Pennsylvania (570) 522-3880 40.98 -76.89 40.9767031-76.8861208 Retirement community 3 4.0 1 1 1 0 0 8AM to 4:30PM 8AM to 4:30PM 8AM to 4:30PM 8AM to 4:30PM 8AM to 4:30PM Closed Closed More details
1,544 Penn State Altoona AF1QipOXT5KJmVX0sUxkfzxIcVEGyR-dfsvxxmmNlb9U=w426-h240-k-no https://altoona.psu.edu/ 3000 Ivyside Park Altoona PA 16601 GHRQ+CQ Altoona, Pennsylvania (814) 949-5000 40.54 -78.41 40.5410764-78.4105926 Public university 112 4.4 83 16 2 2 9 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM 8AM to 5PM Closed Closed More details
1,545 Arbutus Park Retirement Community AF1QipMkw_a3_6saOExyWxXPzvJ-spYD0qwXQYceF0lw=w408-h272-k-no https://arbutusparkmanor.com/ 207 Ottawa St Johnstown PA 15904 74MC+22 Johnstown, Pennsylvania (814) 266-8621 40.28 -78.88 40.282513-78.8799231 Retirement community 88 4.2 More details
1,546 Bethlehem Area Professional-Technical School AF1QipMK-T-1Tn8n_DmWRZxwql7_MrWDuKFJebFzcpN3=w424-h240-k-no https://www.bethlehemavts.org/ 3300 Chester Ave Bethlehem PA 18020 MM78+M8 Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (610) 866-8013 40.66 -75.33 40.6641663-75.334127 Educational institution 22 4.8 20 1 0 0 1 7AM to 3PM 7AM to 3PM 7AM to 3PM 7AM to 3PM 7AM to 3PM Closed Closed More details
1,547 Bradford Hills Nursing and Rehabilitation Center thumbnail?panoid=jGuNwCJX1-sHBnAF3jP0Bg&cb_client=search.gws-prod.gps&w=408&h=240&yaw=148.0676&pitch=0&thumbfov=100 https://bradfordhills.com/ 15900 US-6 Troy PA 16947 Q9GG+CV Troy, Pennsylvania (570) 297-4111 41.78 -76.62 41.7760812-76.622799 Rehabilitation center 15 3.4 7 2 0 2 4 Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours More details
1,548 Bradford Manor AF1QipNs0xmjTxCGlawyddEG6tK72uieXCgI-xRZCIfq=w408-h306-k-no https://bradfordmanor.com/ 50 Langmaid Ln Bradford PA 16701 W8R9+7F Bradford, Pennsylvania (814) 362-6090 41.94 -78.68 41.940701-78.6813313 Nursing home 14 3.4 8 0 1 0 5 Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours More details
1,549 Carbon Career and Technical Institute AF1QipNljmdpuw-7-hwIjigfyfirlCBftDhifqHpCkg6=w460-h240-k-no https://carboncti.org/ 150 W 13th St Jim Thorpe PA 18229 V7PF+44 Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania (570) 325-3682 40.89 -75.73 40.8852627-75.7272335 Educational institution 36 3.4 20 1 1 3 11 7:15AM to 2:45PM 7:15AM to 2:45PM 7:15AM to 2:45PM 7:15AM to 2:45PM 7:15AM to 2:45PM Closed Closed More details
1,550 Cedar Haven Healthcare Center AF1QipP5X_cjXt5L4rysKZa5W1wXmXENl1eBvlgTLXWY=w426-h240-k-no https://cedarhaven.healthcare/ 590 S 5th Ave Lebanon PA 17042 8JP2+RJ Lebanon, Pennsylvania (717) 274-0421 40.34 -76.40 40.3370087-76.3984009 Nursing home 70 3.7 43 4 3 1 19 Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours Open 24 hours More details
1,551 Columbia-Montour Area Vocational Technical School AF1QipOymKCmzF3r3XedzJetHiuran8ZztvB4RkPlX_T=w408-h306-k-no https://cmvt.us/ 5050 Sweppenheiser Dr Bloomsburg PA 17815 2JHQ+85 Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania (570) 784-8040 41.03 -76.36 41.0282517-76.3620755 Educational institution 62 3.7 38 5 1 0 18 More details
1,552 Dauphin County Technical School AF1QipOyRUHPn24DOxo2cJkmyL-4zXXyRjPszPl1Pvth=w408-h306-k-no https://dcts.org/ 6001 Locust Ln Harrisburg PA 17109 76VC+33 Harrisburg, Pennsylvania (717) 652-3170 40.29 -76.78 40.2926609-76.7798303 Technical school 82 4.5 67 5 0 2 8 7AM to 4PM 7AM to 4PM 7AM to 4PM 7AM to 4PM 7AM to 4PM Closed Closed More details