Key Points

• A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides essential patient care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs).
• To become a CNA in Virginia, you must complete a state-approved training program and pass the Virginia CNA exam.
• CNA programs in Virginia typically cost between $1,000–$1,300 and take 4–12 weeks to complete.
• The average CNA salary in Virginia is approximately $40,160 per year ($19.31 per hour).
• CNAs are in high demand across hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and home healthcare agencies.

What is a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a licensed healthcare professional who provides direct patient care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). CNAs assist patients with daily living activities, monitor basic health signs, and help ensure comfort and safety.

Responsibilities include:

• Assisting patients with bathing, eating, dressing, and mobility
• Measuring and recording vital signs
• Supporting nurses during basic medical procedures
• Providing emotional support to patients and families
• Maintaining cleanliness and infection control in patient areas

Where Do CNAs Work?

CNAs in Virginia work in diverse healthcare settings:

• Hospitals: Providing bedside support and assisting nursing staff.
• Nursing Homes: Helping residents with personal care and mobility.
• Rehabilitation Centers: Assisting patients in recovery after injury or surgery.
• Home Health Agencies: Delivering one-on-one care in home settings.

The versatility of this role makes it an ideal starting point for anyone pursuing a long-term healthcare career.

Educational Requirements to Become a CNA in Virginia

To become a CNA in Virginia, you must meet the state’s training and certification standards:

• Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program:
  Programs typically last 4–12 weeks, combining classroom lectures with clinical practice. While a high school diploma or GED is helpful, it’s not always required.
  Courses cover topics such as:

  • Patient safety and infection control
  • Basic anatomy and physiology
  • Communication and patient interaction
  • Vital signs and personal care procedures

• Pass the Virginia CNA Exam:
  Administered by Credentia CNA365, this exam includes a written test and a skills evaluation. Both must be passed to earn certification and placement on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry.

How to Become a CNA in Virginia

Follow these steps to start your CNA career in Virginia:

1. Find a State-Approved CNA Training Program

Choose a program approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing.
You can compare options based on cost, schedule, and reviews through Dreambound, the easiest way to find CNA classes near you.

2. Enroll in Training

Complete your 4–12 week CNA course, which includes both classroom instruction and supervised clinical experience.
You’ll learn:

• Basic patient care
• Medical terminology and infection control
• Vital signs measurement
• Effective communication with patients and staff

3. Register for the Virginia CNA Exam

Once training is complete, register for the exam via Credentia CNA365.

Exam Details:

• Cost: $140 total ($95 for the skills test + $45 for the written/oral test)
• Deadline: Register at least 10 days before your test date
• Format:
  • Written/Oral Test: 70 multiple-choice questions
  • Skills Test: Demonstrate 5 randomly selected CNA skills
• Passing Score: Minimum 76%

You have three attempts per section within 120 days of completing training. If not passed, you must retake the program.

4. Get Certified

After passing both exam sections, your name will be added to the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry, confirming your official certification status.

5. Start Working as a CNA

Once certified, apply for CNA roles in hospitals, assisted living centers, and home healthcare agencies.
You can find current openings on MyNextMove or local job boards.