Key Points

• CNA training in Virginia requires 120+ hours of classroom, lab, and clinical experience.
• Programs typically take 4–12 weeks to complete.
• The NNAAP exam includes a written/oral test and a skills evaluation.
• Total exam cost is $140 ($95 skills test + $45 written/oral).
• Certification requires placement on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry.
• CNAs in Virginia earn $40,160 per year, per BLS.

What is a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a trained healthcare support professional who works under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs). CNAs provide direct care, assist with daily activities, and help maintain comfort and safety for patients.

What Does a CNA Do?

CNAs play a key role in patient support, performing tasks such as:

• Assisting with bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility
• Measuring and recording vital signs
• Supporting nurses during routine care
• Maintaining clean and safe environments
• Providing reassurance and emotional support

Where CNAs Work in Virginia

CNA roles are available across many types of care settings:

• Hospitals
• Nursing homes and long-term care facilities
• Rehab centers
• Home health agencies
• Assisted living communities

Virginia CNA Requirements

Virginia requires the following to become a CNA:

• Completion of a state-approved CNA training program
• At least 120 hours of classroom and clinical training
• Passing both components of the NNAAP exam
• Background check clearance (required by many programs)
• Placement on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry

A high school diploma or GED is helpful but not always required.

How to Become a CNA in Virginia

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

Choose a program approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing. Programs typically last 4–12 weeks and cost between $1,000–$1,300. Coursework prepares you for hands-on care and the NNAAP exam.

Training programs teach:

• Infection control
• Communication skills
• Vital signs
• Patient safety
• Personal care procedures
• Basic anatomy and physiology
• Ethics and patient rights

Step 2: Complete 120+ Hours of Required Training

Virginia mandates at least 120 hours of CNA training. This includes classroom learning, lab skills, and supervised clinical experience in a care facility. These hours prepare you for real patient interactions and the NNAAP skills test.

Explore training programs near you through:

• CNA classes in Richmond
• CNA classes in Virginia Beach

Step 3: Pass the Virginia NNAAP Exam

Virginia uses the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, administered by Credentia CNA365.

Exam cost:

• $95 — Skills evaluation
• $45 — Written or oral test
• $140 total

Exam format:

• Written/oral test: 70 multiple-choice questions
• Skills test: Perform 5 randomly assigned CNA skills

Attempts:
You have 3 attempts per exam section within 120 days of finishing your training program.

Step 4: Get Listed on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry

After passing both exam sections, Credentia forwards your results to the Virginia Board of Nursing. You are then added to the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry, which employers check to confirm your certification.

Step 5: Start Working as a CNA

Once certified and listed on the registry, you can apply for CNA roles in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living centers, and home health organizations.

Find current job openings at:
MyNextMove: Virginia CNA Jobs

Step 6: Renew Your CNA Certification

Virginia requires CNAs to renew certification every 2 years. To stay active, CNAs must complete paid CNA work during the renewal period and maintain updated contact information on the registry.