With an annual average salary of $46,430, becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Washington is a financially viable entry into healthcare. To earn your credentials, you must complete a state-approved training program—typically 2 to 4 weeks in length and pay between $750 and $1,450. This article walks you through these steps, providing clear, step-by-step guidance on how to launch your CNA career in Washington.

Key Points

• A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a healthcare professional who provides essential care and daily living support to patients.
• To become a CNA in Washington, you must complete a state-recognized training program, pass the written and skills exams, and meet age/background check requirements.
• Most CNA classes in Washington last between 2 to 4 weeks, though evening or weekend options can extend to 6-10 weeks.
• CNA training typically costs $750–$1,000 in Washington, with some programs reaching $1,450 when including additional certifications and materials.
• The average CNA salary in Washington is $46,430 per year (approximately $22.32 per hour).

What is a CNA?

A CNA, or Certified Nursing Assistant, is a key member of the healthcare team who assists patients with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, feeding, and monitoring vital signs. They also support nurses by helping maintain a safe and comfortable environment for patients.

Key Responsibilities of a CNA:

• Assisting patients with personal hygiene and mobility
• Measuring vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, temperature)
• Communicating patient concerns to nursing staff
• Maintaining patient safety and comfort
• Observing and reporting changes in patient conditions

Where Do CNAs Work?

In Washington, CNAs find employment in diverse settings that need skilled patient care professionals.

• Hospitals: Large medical centers and community hospitals rely on CNAs to monitor patient well-being.
• Long-Term Care Facilities: Nursing homes and assisted-living centers often have the highest demand for CNAs.
• Home Healthcare Services: CNAs assist patients who prefer to receive care in the comfort of their homes.
• Rehabilitation Centers: Facilities focused on physical therapy and recovery frequently need CNAs for patient support.

Educational Requirements

Most employers prefer candidates with at least a high school diploma or GED, though it is not always mandatory. Washington state requires an 85-hour training program that covers classroom instruction, lab practice, and hands-on clinical experience. Look for programs at community colleges, vocational schools, or specialized training providers to ensure you meet state standards.

How to Become a CNA in Washington?

1. Meet Eligibility Requirements

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old. Some training programs may accept students as young as 16 with specific permissions.
• Education: While a high school diploma or GED is not mandatory, it is beneficial and preferred by many employers.
• Background Check: The Washington State Department of Health requires a criminal background check, which includes a fee. Background checks can be processed through agencies like the WA State Patrol or WA Social and Health Services.

2. Complete CNA Training

• Duration: State-regulated CNA programs require 85 hours of training, including classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice.
• Program Options: Training programs can be completed in as little as 2-3 weeks with accelerated schedules or 6-10 weeks for evening/weekend formats.
• Cost: Tuition ranges between $750 and $1,450, depending on the program and additional certifications offered.

3. Pass the State CNA Exam

• Exam Structure: The Washington CNA exam includes a written (or oral) section with 70 questions and a skills evaluation requiring you to perform five randomly selected tasks.

• Fees:

  Written Exam: $55

  Oral Exam (English or Spanish): $55

  Skills Evaluation: $100

4. Obtain Your CNA Certification

After passing the exam, your name will be added to the OBRA Nursing Assistant Registry. You can apply for certification through the Washington State Department of Health, which doesn’t issue physical license cards but confirms certification through the registry.

CNA classes in Washington

‍In Washington, the CNA class is 85 hours, as the state regulates. Every CNA student must receive this amount of training.

The fastest way to become a CNA in Washington takes 2 to 3 weeks of classes. The average length of training is 3 to 4 weeks. Weekend classes may take longer; 6 to 10 weeks above is the expected time to a lot for these classes.

Tuition may also vary. Top-rated CNA schools in WA usually have tuition costs of $750 to $1,000. Some classes cost $1,450 and above, including books and other materials. Some schools cost more since they teach other certifications with the CNA class.

CNA classes are often held in a hybrid way. Lectures are often taught online, while clinicals are in-person. The lessons cover the 23 skills needed to pass your state exam.

Where to Find CNA Classes in Washington

Dreambound is a user-friendly resource that lists state-approved CNA programs across Washington. You can filter by city, schedule, and learning format (in-person, hybrid, or online) to find a program that suits your needs. Other options include community colleges, technical schools, and some healthcare facilities that offer in-house training.

The CNA State Exam in Washington

The CNA exam in Washington has two parts, the written and skills. You will face 70 questions for the written exam with a 2-hour window to finish. An oral exam is available in place of the written exam. This might be a better option if you need help with reading in English.

During the skills evaluation, you'll perform five nursing assistant skills. Chosen at random, you'll have 30 minutes to complete the skills assigned to you. A Nurse Aide Evaluator will rate your performance.

As of July 2024, here are the fees for taking your state exams:

Exam Fees:

• Written Examination: $55

• English Oral Examination: $55

• Spanish Oral Examination: $55

• Skills Evaluation: $100

How Do I Register for a CNA Exam in Washington?

You're one step closer to getting your license! At this stage, process your application for certification at the WA State Department of Health. Apply online or through the mail. The application for certification costs $85 and is non-refundable.

The next step is to create an online account with Credentia. Click the Sign-Up option to proceed with submitting a testing application. Answer all the details with accuracy to avoid getting declined.

Once your testing application gets approved, it's time to schedule your exam. Payments are cashless through credit cards, and fees are non-refundable once made!

This is where you can also choose accommodation and pick an online or on-site written exam. Reserve your spot online for exams at test centers using a computer at least ten days before the test date. It is not recommended to use smartphones or tablets for this process.

For online written or oral exams, you can schedule your exam as soon as the next day, subject to availability. Signing up for your account is easy; follow this reference guide, and you will never go wrong!

How Do I Get My CNA Certification in Washington?

Once you’ve completed your CNA training and passed your exams, getting your certification in Washington is the final step to starting your career. This process involves checking your exam results, ensuring they’re recorded, and applying for certification. Here’s what you have to do:

1. Check your exam results: After your exam, Credentia will notify you when your score is available. Log in to your account to view and download your score report, which should be accessible within a few hours of your testing event.

2. Verify your name on the OBRA registry: If you pass both parts of the exam, your name will appear on the OBRA Nursing Assistant registry. This registry confirms that you’ve met the required standards and are now a certified CNA.

3. Download your score report: Your score report can be printed or downloaded from your Credentia account. Keep a copy for your records, as examination results are not provided over the phone.

4. Apply for certification: Although Washington doesn’t issue a license card, you may receive a certification. Contact the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) and follow their application process for certification.

5. Contact support if needed: If you cannot view your score report within 24 hours, reach out to Credentia’s support for assistance to ensure you receive your results promptly

How Much Do CNAs Make in Washington?

Washington ranks among the highest-paying states for CNAs.

• Hourly Rate: $22.32 (average).
• Annual Salary: $46,430 (average).
• Factors Impacting Earnings: Location, experience, and additional certifications.

How to Renew My CNA License in Washington?

You must renew your CNA certification with DOH each year before your birthday. The DOH site provides online, mail, or in-person options for the renewal process.

Make sure to work for nursing-related roles for pay in the last two years to avoid retraining and retesting. If you have a lapsed CNA certification for three years, you must retrain and retest before you can practice again.

Career Paths and Opportunities

Beyond entry-level CNA roles, Washington’s healthcare market offers numerous pathways for career development:

• Specialized CNA Roles: CNAs can pursue additional certificates in areas like restorative care.
• Advanced Nursing Positions: Many CNAs eventually become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs).
• Healthcare Administration: With experience, CNAs can move into administrative or supervisory roles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a CNA license in Washington state?

Becoming a CNA in Washington typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the class schedule and format. Standard classes usually last 3 to 4 weeks, while accelerated programs may be completed in as little as 2 weeks. Evening or weekend classes might extend the duration to 6 to 10 weeks.

How much does it cost to become a CNA in Washington state?

In Washington, CNA training costs generally range from $750 to $1,000, though some programs may charge up to $1,450. The price often includes tuition, books, and other materials.

Can you become a CNA online in Washington state?

Yes, you can become a CNA online in Washington state. However, you are still required to complete a portion of your training in-person to gain hands-on experience.

How long can you work as a CNA without certification in Washington state?

In Washington state, you cannot legally work as a CNA without certification but students are allowed to work in nursing homes for up to four months (120 days) before getting certified. Students can apply within three days of their hire date and the 120 days will start on the date of hire. Online application is encouraged for faster processing.

How many times can you take the CNA written exam in Washington state?

In Washington state, you can take the CNA written and skills exam up to four times. If you do not pass after the fourth attempt, you will need to retrain before you can retake the exam.

How old do you have to be to be a CNA in Washington?

To be a CNA in Washington, you must be at least 18 years old. This is a requirement set by the Washington State Department of Health.

Final Thoughts

With above-average income, a high demand for certified professionals, and a straightforward certification process, Washington is a fantastic state to launch your CNA career. Invest in a high-quality program, pass the state exam, and you’ll be well on your way to a stable, rewarding future in healthcare.

Ready to take the next step? Start your CNA journey in Washington today and experience a rewarding career.

‍Consider Dreambound as a valuable resource if you're thinking about getting started in this field. We've written many guides to help you:

• Become a CNA in 3 easy steps
• CNA classes near me
• Become a CNA in High School
• STNA in Ohio

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