Alabama CNA Certification Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Alabama
Official source: licensing in Alabama is administered by the Alabama Department of Public Health - Nurse Aide Registry. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Alabama.
Apply on Official SiteHow do you renew a CNA certification in Alabama?
Alabama nurse aide registration has no fixed renewal cycle. There is no renewal application. Your certification stays active as long as you work at least 8 paid hours every 24 months as a nurse aide doing direct patient care under a registered nurse in a nursing home, hospital, home health agency, hospice agency, or mental health facility; volunteer work, private sitting, assisted living and doctor's-office work do not count.
Source: Alabama Department of Public Health: Nurse Aide Registry FAQ, checked 2026-11-06.
1 Training Program Requirements
Program Requirements
Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program
Additional Requirements
- Federal minimum of 75 hours required
- Must include at least 16 hours of supervised clinical training
- Program must be approved by the Alabama Department of Public Health
2 Competency Examination
Exam Name
Alabama Nurse Aide Competency Exam
Test Provider
Pearson VUE
Exam Components
Written/Oral Test
Multiple choice questions on nursing assistant knowledge and skills
Skills Demonstration
Perform 3-5 randomly selected nursing skills in front of an evaluator
Exam Fee
$105
Tip: You must pass both the written (or oral) and skills portions of the exam to be certified. Most states allow multiple retake attempts if needed.
3 Background Check
CNAs work with vulnerable populations, so background checks are required in all states. Cost is typically $41.
4 Fees
Initial Certification
| Training Program | $500-$2,000* |
| Competency Exam | $105 |
| Background Check | $41 |
| Application/Registry Fee | $25 |
*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment
Renewal
| Renewal Fee | No renewal step |
| Work Requirement | 8 hours in 24 months |
Certification Renewal
There is no renewal application. Your certification stays active as long as you work at least 8 paid hours every 24 months as a nurse aide doing direct patient care under a registered nurse in a nursing home, hospital, home health agency, hospice agency, or mental health facility; volunteer work, private sitting, assisted living and doctor's-office work do not count.
Career Advancement
CNAs can advance to LPN or RN with additional education and training
Alabama CNA Certification FAQs
How much does CNA certification cost in Alabama?
Expect about $171 in total initial CNA certification costs in Alabama, including a $25 application fee and a $105 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Alabama Department of Public Health - Nurse Aide Registry.
How do you renew a CNA certification in Alabama?
Alabama nurse aide registration has no fixed renewal cycle. There is no renewal application. Your certification stays active as long as you work at least 8 paid hours every 24 months as a nurse aide doing direct patient care under a registered nurse in a nursing home, hospital, home health agency, hospice agency, or mental health facility; volunteer work, private sitting, assisted living and doctor's-office work do not count.
How long does it take to get CNA certification in Alabama?
Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 8 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.
Who issues CNA certifications in Alabama?
The Alabama Department of Public Health - Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (334) 206-5169.
Nurse Aide Registry
Free Tools
Other License Types in Alabama
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 3 official sources • Last verified: June 2026