
New York has over 85,000 Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) working in hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. If you want a stable healthcare career with fast training and high demand, becoming a CNA in New York is a great choice. CNAs earn an average of $47,530 per year ($22.85/hour), according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
You must complete a 100-hour approved CNA program, pass the Prometric exam, and meet health and background requirements.
Most programs cost $600–$1,500, depending on the school and schedule. Some nursing homes offer free CNA training.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, CNAs in New York earn $47,530 per year ($22.85/hour) on average.
The fastest route is enrolling in an accelerated 3–6 week CNA training program and passing the Prometric exam immediately after graduation.
The duration to become a CNA in New York City varies. Typically, CNA training programs range from 3 to 12 weeks. This includes both classroom learning and hands-on clinical practice to prepare you for the state exams.
To keep your CNA license active in New York, you must work for an approved employer for at least one 7-hour shift within a 24-month period. This ensures your certification remains valid and allows you to continue working as a CNA in the state.
The highest paying state for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) is the District of Columbia, where in May 2023, CNAs can earn an average annual salary of $47,480, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Traveling CNAs in New York City can make an average of $33,000 to $40,000 per year. This figure can vary based on factors such as experience, specialization, and the specific terms of their contract.
Factors that may disqualify you from being a CNA in New York include a criminal conviction, a record of patient abuse or neglect, or failure to meet the state's health and character requirements. It's important to check with the New York State Department of Health for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
It feels good when your passion can also be your career. For our aspirant CNAs in New York, we hope this blog has helped you arrive at a decision! The steps to complete may be a lot, but you will be well on your way to joining this essential workforce. Being a CNA can also be the door to more opportunities to advance your skills and career prospects. Take your time to explore your options, don't rush! Everything important in life takes time.
Consider Dreambound as a valuable resource if you're thinking about getting started in this field. We've written many guides to help you:
Contemplating a transition in your career or exploring various professional paths? Dreambound has written comprehensive guides on nearly every type of program to aid you in your decision.

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.
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A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) supports patients with daily living tasks such as bathing, feeding, and mobility. CNAs monitor vital signs, assist nurses, and ensure patient comfort in hospitals, nursing homes, and care facilities.
CNAs in New York work in a variety of healthcare environments, including:
CNA training in New York requires 100 hours of instruction, consisting of:
70 hours of classroom and lab work
30 hours of supervised clinical training under a licensed nurse
Minimum age is 18 years old (some programs accept 16-year-olds)
Pass a background check (criminal convictions may affect eligibility)
Provide proof of immunization, a negative tuberculosis (TB) test, and pass a drug screening
Administered by Prometric, the exam includes:
Written Exam: 60 multiple-choice questions on patient care, safety, and ethics (90 minutes)
Skills Test: Demonstrate 5 randomly selected CNA skills (30-40 minutes)
Exam Costs:
Full exam: $115–$135 (written or oral + clinical skills)
Skills retest: $68
Written retest: $57
Oral retest: $67
Reciprocity (out-of-state CNAs): $50
Certification Renewal: Work at least one 7-hour shift every 24 months with an approved employer to maintain your CNA certification.
Complete a state-approved CNA training program.
Register for the exam through Prometric and submit the necessary documents.
Schedule your exam at an approved test center in New York.
Pay exam fees (varies based on exam type and retakes).
Prepare for the test by reviewing Prometric’s candidate handbook and practice materials.
CNA courses in in New York varies in duration (3 to 12 weeks) and cost ($600 to $1,500), depending on the institution. Factors such as program length, location, and class schedule impact tuition costs.
Dreambound offers an extensive list of reputable New York State Approved Schools, making it easier to compare costs, locations, and schedules.
Once you become a CNA, you can expand your career through additional certifications and specialized training. Here are some career advancement options:
Phlebotomy Technician (CPT): Learn to draw blood for medical tests and transfusions.
EKG Technician (CET): Specialize in heart monitoring and diagnostics.
Medication Aide (CMA): Administer medications under nurse supervision.
Patient Care Technician (PCT): Expand your clinical skills beyond CNA work.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Requires 1-2 years of additional training.
Registered Nurse (RN): Requires an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN).
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