Alaska CNA Certification Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Alaska
Official source: licensing in Alaska is administered by the Alaska Board of Nursing - Nurse Aide Registry. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Alaska.
Apply on Official SiteHow do you renew a CNA certification in Alaska?
Alaska CNA certification renews every 2 years, and the renewal fee is $100. You need at least 160 hours of paid work performing CNA duties in a US state or territory or a Canadian province or territory during the 2-year certification period that is ending. You must also complete 24 contact hours of continuing education in that period (12 if renewing for the first time after at least a year of certification).
Source: 12 AAC 44.815 (Alaska Administrative Code, official akleg.gov text), checked 2026-11-06.
1 Training Program Requirements
Program Requirements
Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program
Additional Requirements
- Alaska requires 140 hours of training (exceeds federal minimum)
- Must include classroom instruction and clinical training
- Program must be approved by the Alaska Board of Nursing
2 Competency Examination
Exam Name
Alaska Nurse Aide Competency Exam
Test Provider
Prometric
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
$115
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 $65.
4 Fees
Initial Certification
| Training Program | $500-$2,000* |
| Competency Exam | $115 |
| Background Check | $65 |
| Application/Registry Fee | $100 |
*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $100 |
| Work Requirement | 160 hours in 24 months |
Certification Renewal
You need at least 160 hours of paid work performing CNA duties in a US state or territory or a Canadian province or territory during the 2-year certification period that is ending. You must also complete 24 contact hours of continuing education in that period (12 if renewing for the first time after at least a year of certification).
Career Advancement
CNAs can advance to LPN or RN with additional education and training
Alaska CNA Certification FAQs
How much does CNA certification cost in Alaska?
Expect about $230 in total initial CNA certification costs in Alaska, including a $100 application fee and a $115 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Alaska Board of Nursing - Nurse Aide Registry.
How do you renew a CNA certification in Alaska?
Alaska CNA certification renews every 2 years, and the renewal fee is $100. You need at least 160 hours of paid work performing CNA duties in a US state or territory or a Canadian province or territory during the 2-year certification period that is ending. You must also complete 24 contact hours of continuing education in that period (12 if renewing for the first time after at least a year of certification).
How long does it take to get CNA certification in Alaska?
Most complete applications are processed in about 6 to 12 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.
Who issues CNA certifications in Alaska?
The Alaska Board of Nursing - Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (907) 269-8161.
Nurse Aide Registry
Free Tools
Other License Types in Alaska
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 3 official sources • Last verified: June 2026