CNA Entry-Level

Arizona CNA Certification Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Arizona

Training Hours

120+ hours

Total Initial Cost

$222

Program Duration

4-10 weeks for training program

Renewal Period

2 years

Official source: licensing in Arizona is administered by the Arizona State 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 Arizona.

Apply on Official Site

How do you renew a CNA certification in Arizona?

Arizona CNA certification renews every 2 years, and there is no renewal fee. You need at least 8 paid hours working as a nursing assistant (or doing nursing assistant tasks) in the last 2 years.

Source: Arizona State Board of Nursing: Renew your License (CNA/LNA tab), checked 2026-11-06.

1 Training Program Requirements

Program Requirements

Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program

120+

Minimum training hours

4-10 weeks for training program

Typical program length

Additional Requirements

Arizona requires 120 hours of training
Must include at least 16 hours of supervised clinical training
Program must be approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing

2 Competency Examination

Exam Name

Arizona Nurse Aide Competency Exam

Test Provider

D&S Diversified Technologies

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

Fingerprint-based criminal background check

CNAs work with vulnerable populations, so background checks are required in all states. Cost is typically $67.

4 Fees

Initial Certification

Training Program	$500-$2,000*
Competency Exam	$105
Background Check	$67
Application/Registry Fee	$0

*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)	$0
Work Requirement	8 hours in 24 months

Certification Renewal

2 years

Renewal cycle

8+ hours

Work requirement

You need at least 8 paid hours working as a nursing assistant (or doing nursing assistant tasks) in the last 2 years.

Career Advancement

CNAs can advance to LPN or RN with additional education and training

LVN/LPN Licensing RN Requirements All Career Paths

Arizona CNA Certification FAQs

How much does CNA certification cost in Arizona?

Expect about $222 in total initial CNA certification costs in Arizona, including a $105 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Arizona State Board of Nursing - Nurse Aide Registry.

How do you renew a CNA certification in Arizona?

Arizona CNA certification renews every 2 years, and there is no renewal fee. You need at least 8 paid hours working as a nursing assistant (or doing nursing assistant tasks) in the last 2 years.

How long does it take to get CNA certification in Arizona?

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 10 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues CNA certifications in Arizona?

The Arizona State Board of Nursing - Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (602) 771-7800.