Key Points
- Pennsylvania requires 80 hours of training, including 37.5 hours of clinical practice.
- The CNA exam is the Credentia NNAAP, used statewide.
- Training programs take 4–12 weeks; accelerated programs can be as fast as 2–3 weeks.
- CNAs earn an average of $41,700/year in Pennsylvania.
- You must renew your CNA certification every 24 months through the CNA365® portal.
- CNA roles are in high demand across hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies.
Step 1: Meet Pennsylvania’s CNA Requirements
Before enrolling in a CNA program, you must meet the state's minimum eligibility criteria:
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Pass a criminal background check (state and federal).
- Provide immunization records, including TB test and physical exam.
- Have the ability to perform physical tasks such as lifting and assisting patients.
- Be able to read, write, and communicate in English.
- Enroll in a Pennsylvania Department of Education–approved CNA program.
These baseline requirements ensure students can safely participate in clinical training and direct patient care.
Step 2: Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program
Pennsylvania requires all CNA candidates to complete a state-approved Nurse Aide Training Program. Programs are offered at:
- Nursing homes
- Career and technical schools
- Community colleges
- Healthcare training centers
Training includes:
Classroom Instruction (at least 42.5 hours) Covers patient care, communication, infection control, safety procedures, and residents’ rights.
Skills Lab Practice Hands-on practice for essential skills such as mobility assistance, bed-making, vital signs, and personal care.
Clinical Training (minimum 37.5 hours) Supervised patient care in a long-term care facility.
Most programs run 4–12 weeks, depending on schedule. Full-time accelerated programs can finish in 2–3 weeks.
If you're searching for local options, compare programs here:
Step 3: Register and Take the Pennsylvania CNA Exam (NNAAP)
After finishing training, you must take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, administered by Credentia.
The exam includes:
1. Written or Oral Test
- 70 multiple-choice questions
- Oral test option available
2. Skills Test You must perform five randomly selected skills, plus mandatory handwashing.
Exam Rules
- You have three attempts within 24 months of completing training.
- Fees:
- $135 for the full exam
- $50 written/oral retake
- $85 skills retake
- All scheduling is done through the CNA365® portal.
Testing eligibility also applies to out-of-state transfers, expired CNAs, and temporary nurse aides who completed PA attestation requirements.
Step 4: Get Listed on the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry
Once you pass both exam parts, Credentia sends your results to the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Your name is placed on the Nurse Aide Registry, and you receive a digital registry card through your CNA365® account.
Employers verify your registry status before hiring, so keeping your information updated is essential.
Step 5: Start Working as a CNA in Pennsylvania
After registry placement, you are eligible to work across a wide range of healthcare settings:
- Nursing homes
- Long-term care facilities
- Hospitals
- Assisted living residences
- Rehabilitation centers
- Home health agencies
CNA demand is strong in Pennsylvania due to its aging population. Search current openings in MyNextMove.
CNA Renewal Requirements in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania requires CNAs to renew their certification every 24 months through the CNA365® portal.
To stay active on the registry, you must:
- Complete at least 8 hours of paid CNA work under nurse supervision within the past 24 months.
- Submit renewal through CNA365®.
- Have employer verification submitted electronically.
Credentia sends automated reminders 60, 30, 14, and 7 days before expiration.
How Long Does It Take to Become a CNA in Pennsylvania?
Most students become certified within 1–3 months, depending on:
- Program length (4–12 weeks)
- How quickly you schedule your exam
- When your registry placement is processed
Accelerated programs may shorten the timeline significantly.
CNA Training Costs in Pennsylvania
Costs vary depending on the provider:
- Tuition: Typically $800–$1,500
- Extra fees: Scrubs, textbooks, exam fees
Employer Reimbursement: Federal law requires long-term care facilities to reimburse training and exam costs if they employ you within 12 months of certification.
