Key Points

• CNAs assist patients with daily care tasks under nurse supervision.
• Training must include at least 80 hours, with 37.5 hours of clinical practice.
• The CNA exam is administered by Credentia under the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH).
• CNA programs last 4–12 weeks; accelerated options take 2 weeks.
• The average CNA salary is $41,700/year ($20.05/hour).
• CNAs must renew their registration every 24 months through Credentia’s CNA365® platform.

What is a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) supports patients with essential daily activities and basic healthcare needs. CNAs work under the supervision of nurses and are often the primary caregivers in long-term care and hospital settings.

Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting patients with bathing, feeding, and mobility
• Monitoring vital signs
• Reporting changes in patient condition
• Maintaining safety and cleanliness

Where Do CNAs Work?

CNAs are in demand across various healthcare environments, including:

• Hospitals: Assisting nurses in patient care and monitoring
• Nursing homes: Providing long-term care for elderly residents
• Home healthcare agencies: Helping patients with in-home medical needs
• Assisted living facilities: Supporting seniors with daily activities
• Hospice care: Caring for terminally ill patients

Requirements to Become a CNA in Pennsylvania

To qualify for CNA training and certification, you must meet these requirements:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Complete a state-approved CNA training program (minimum 80 hours).
• Pass a background check and physical examination, including a tuberculosis (TB) test.
• Successfully complete the CNA certification exam administered by Credentia.

→ Find CNA classes near you on Dreambound

How to Become a CNA in Pennsylvania

Step 1: Enroll in a State-Approved CNA Training Program

Training programs in Pennsylvania are approved by the Department of Education and are available at nursing homes, community colleges, and vocational schools. Coursework covers patient care, infection control, communication, and safety.

Most programs last 4 to 12 weeks, depending on class schedules. Accelerated programs may be completed in 2 weeks for full-time students.

Step 2: Meet Testing Eligibility and Register

After completing training, you must apply for the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) through Credentia. You qualify if you meet one of the following:

• You completed a CNA training program in the past 24 months.
• Your nurse aide registry status expired after 24 months of inactivity.
• You are transferring from another state registry.
• You are a temporary nurse aide who completed an attestation form.

Testing is scheduled online through the Credentia CNA365® platform.

If you need help, contact Credentia at 888-204-6249 during the following hours (EST):
Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Step 3: Take the CNA Certification Exam

The CNA exam has two sections:

• Written or Oral Exam: 70 multiple-choice questions (oral test includes 10 reading comprehension questions).
• Skills Test: Perform 5 randomly selected nurse aide skills in front of an evaluator.

You have 3 attempts within 24 months to pass both parts.
Exam Fees: $135 full exam, $50 written/oral retake, $85 skills retake.

Bring the following items to your test:

• Two forms of ID (one with a photo and one with a signature).
• Your Social Security number.
• Three No. 2 pencils, an eraser, and a watch with a second hand.

ADA accommodations are available for test-takers with documented disabilities, including extra time, separate rooms, or reader assistance.

Step 4: Receive Your Results and Registry Placement

Test results are usually posted to your Credentia account within 24 hours. Once you pass both the written and skills exams, your name is added to the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry, managed by the Department of Health. You’ll receive a confirmation email and a digital Registry Card through your CNA365® account.

Step 5: Begin Your CNA Career

You can now start working in hospitals, home health agencies, nursing homes, or assisted living centers across Pennsylvania.
→ Find CNA jobs near you

Where to Find CNA Training Programs in Pennsylvania?

Dreambound allows you to look for CNA training programs based on the zip code of your choice. Use Dreambound to search for CNA classes in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, and other cities. You can also check the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s list of approved CNA programs.

CNA Renewal Process in Pennsylvania (via Credentia CNA365®)

CNAs must renew their registration every 24 months through Credentia CNA365®. You’ll receive automated reminders 60, 30, 14, and 7 days before your certification expires.

Step 1: Select the Renewal Button

Log into your CNA365® account, go to the Registry page, and click “Renewal” next to your registration record.

Step 2: Complete the Renewal Application

Fill out all required sections, including personal details, registry information, and employment verification. Each section will turn green after completion.

Step 3: Add Your Employer Details

Your employer must be state-approved and must verify that you worked at least 8 paid hours in a nursing-related role within the past 24 months.
Search your employer by name, phone number, or address. If your workplace doesn’t appear, use the “Add Other Employer” option to enter it manually.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Once all fields are completed, click Submit. You’ll see your application status in real time under the Requests tab.