Arkansas CNA Certification Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Arkansas
Official source: licensing in Arkansas is administered by the Arkansas Department of Human Services - Nurse Aide Registry. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Arkansas.
Apply on Official SiteHow do you renew a CNA certification in Arkansas?
Arkansas CNA certification renews every 2 years. You need at least one documented day (8 hours) of paid nursing or nursing-related work, in any setting, during the prior two years. If you work for private-pay clients, you must include a check stub and a notarized letter from the employer.
Source: Arkansas DHS Office of Long Term Care: Rules for the Arkansas LTCF Nursing Assistant Training Program (Revised July 1, 2024), Section C. Certification Renewal, checked 2026-11-06.
1 Training Program Requirements
Program Requirements
Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program
Additional Requirements
- Arkansas requires 90 hours of training
- Must include at least 16 hours of supervised clinical training
- Program must be approved by the Arkansas Department of Human Services
2 Competency Examination
Exam Name
Arkansas 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
$101
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 $35.
4 Fees
Initial Certification
| Training Program | $500-$2,000* |
| Competency Exam | $101 |
| Background Check | $35 |
| Application/Registry Fee | $0 |
*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | Not confirmed |
| Work Requirement | 8 hours in 24 months |
Certification Renewal
You need at least one documented day (8 hours) of paid nursing or nursing-related work, in any setting, during the prior two years. If you work for private-pay clients, you must include a check stub and a notarized letter from the employer.
Career Advancement
CNAs can advance to LPN or RN with additional education and training
Arkansas CNA Certification FAQs
How much does CNA certification cost in Arkansas?
Expect about $136 in total initial CNA certification costs in Arkansas, including a $101 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Arkansas Department of Human Services - Nurse Aide Registry.
How do you renew a CNA certification in Arkansas?
Arkansas CNA certification renews every 2 years. You need at least one documented day (8 hours) of paid nursing or nursing-related work, in any setting, during the prior two years. If you work for private-pay clients, you must include a check stub and a notarized letter from the employer.
How long does it take to get CNA certification in Arkansas?
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 Arkansas?
The Arkansas Department of Human Services - Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (501) 682-8430.
Nurse Aide Registry
Free Tools
Other License Types in Arkansas
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 4 official sources • Last verified: June 2026