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In Florida, also known as the Sunshine State, opportunities to become a CNA are increasing. If you are interested in becoming a CNA, this career choice may grow into something worthwhile and be something you are passionate about.
We cover multiple cities throughout Florida, and you can find classes in certain cities, such as Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, Cape, Ft. Lauderdale, and more! Filter and compare schools in Florida from Dreambound’s list of Florida state-approved CNA schools.
Depending on your chosen school, CNA programs in Florida have varying lengths of time to complete. The state requires the training program to have a minimum of 120 hours. The current estimated program cost is $2,000 for the schooling and supplies, but the prices of CNA programs will also vary.
Florida has many accredited schools to choose from. Most schools offer hybrid programs, and there are plenty of options!
You will need to wear a set of scrubs and closed-toe shoes such as Crocs or sneakers to follow the proper dress code. Your school may also include items in your tuition during the enrollment process. You can also buy supplies to help you on your journey to becoming a CNA.
These items can include:
Get prepared and check out these things to buy for your CNA classes! Make sure to check your shopping list and get ready for your training!
Each state has different requirements to become a CNA. In Florida, these requirements include completing an approved training program, passing the state examination, passing a criminal background check, and being 18 years old or above. It is optional to complete a training program to sit for the state-approved exam, but it is helpful.
Educational criteria (should meet at least one of the following below):
Important note: You must pass both parts of the exam within two years of each other. You will have three chances to pass the exams. If you need to take the state exams a fourth time, you will need to register and complete a state-approved training program.
Background screening criteria:
You may register for the CNA exam in Florida once you have met all the eligibility requirements. The Florida State Board of Nursing has a contract with Prometric, which handles the Florida CNA Exam. To apply, the Florida State Board of Nursing has created a thorough application process to ensure your information is submitted correctly.
A simplified step-by-step application process guide:
Once Prometric gets approval from the Florida State Board of Nursing, Prometric can finally schedule the candidate for examination and send an admission letter to the candidate! Bring this letter on the day of the exam and two valid IDs for identity verification.
In Florida, many training providers give out examination prep study guides and practice tests for the skills exam. There are over 300+ questions with step-by-step instructions and training manuals. It is also helpful to review online study guides and the list of commonly used equipment by CNAs to get familiar with them.
On the day of your exams, arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled exam time. Wear proper attire, such as scrubs or school uniforms, and wear closed-toe flat shoes like those used during training. Wearing a watch with a secondhand is also necessary for taking vitals.
Prometric also published a Candidate Information Bulletin on its website as a guide for CNA students. Lots of resources are easy to access for the benefit of the students, but nothing beats proper preparation in passing your CNA exam.
You’ve probably finished taking the CNA exams at this time; congratulations! After you complete both parts of the CNA exam, you will have your printed report on the same day. You can access the results online after 48 hours by logging onto the Prometric website. Prometric will have the results of the exam, and they are responsible for sending these to the Board.
Prometric usually takes 72 hours and up to a week to send the exam results to the Florida Board of Nursing. From there, it can take 5 days to 4 weeks for you to receive your certification by mail and your physical license in the mail within 7-14 days. It may also take 2 to 5 weeks before you can verify your license on the CNA registry.
There seems to be a lot of waiting, but keep in mind that patience is a virtue! In the end, it will surely be worth it.
The starting salary of a CNA in Florida is around $17 per hour and will increase over time. You can make around $36,000 annually if working full-time.
CNAs are in demand anywhere. Hospitals, assisted living facilities, retirement homes, government agencies, and even schools need CNAs. You can find CNA jobs in different settings by browsing trusted job boards. Applying directly to a facility is also a smart choice! Find your desired employer's website and look for their open roles.
One trusted job board is the Florida Health Care Association Long Term Care Career Center. Prepare, update, and upload your resume. It's time for your search for a new exciting opportunity!
Did you know that you can perform CNA tasks even if you’re not yet certified? That’s right! Some nursing centers are open to hiring Personal Care Attendants (PCAs). There are 2 ways for you to get hired as a CNA by choosing this path:
The list below is some of the daily tasks of CNAs. These are:
Working as a CNA is a fulfilling yet challenging job. Every task that CNAs do should reflect their love for their craft and patients. It takes a lot of dedication and patience, and for that, we salute every CNA out there.
There are different ways CNAs can progress in their career. Some CNAs would like to add an element of adventure and exploration to their career. Whatever your preference may be, there are lots of exciting opportunities for you!
A popular career choice related to being a CNA is working as a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA). CMAs play an important and varied role. They manage patient records and can also perform clinical tasks!
Another popular choice is being a travel CNA. Travel CNAs are perfect for those who love working in different places. Imagine fulfilling your passion and seeing various cities at the same time. Get started with your journey as a travel CNA and learn how to become one!
There are popular certificates that you can add to your skills too! This will give you an advantage and equip you with more knowledge. These kinds of training may need different instruments, so better prepare and research!
Alyssa Jane is part of the customer success team at Dreambound. She works with students, training providers, and employers, helping them have a smooth customer journey. She is also an ESL tutor and Licensed Psychometrician. She is fond of traveling, photography, and discovering new restaurants.