Connecticut CNA Certification Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Connecticut
Official source: licensing in Connecticut is administered by the Connecticut 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 Connecticut.
Apply on Official SiteHow do you renew a CNA certification in Connecticut?
Connecticut CNA certification renews every 2 years, and there is no renewal fee. You need at least one 8-hour shift of paid work as a nurse aide or in a position providing nursing-related services before your certificate expires; renewal then runs 2 years from your last verified employment date.
Source: Connecticut DPH: Nurse Aide Registration Renewal Requirements, checked 2026-11-06.
1 Training Program Requirements
Program Requirements
Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program
Additional Requirements
- Connecticut requires 100 hours of training
- Must include classroom and clinical training components
- Program must be approved by the Connecticut Department of Public Health
2 Competency Examination
Exam Name
Connecticut 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
$120
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 $75.
4 Fees
Initial Certification
| Training Program | $500-$2,000* |
| Competency Exam | $120 |
| Background Check | $75 |
| 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
You need at least one 8-hour shift of paid work as a nurse aide or in a position providing nursing-related services before your certificate expires; renewal then runs 2 years from your last verified employment date.
Career Advancement
CNAs can advance to LPN or RN with additional education and training
Connecticut CNA Certification FAQs
How much does CNA certification cost in Connecticut?
Expect about $220 in total initial CNA certification costs in Connecticut, including a $120 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Connecticut Department of Public Health - Nurse Aide Registry.
How do you renew a CNA certification in Connecticut?
Connecticut CNA certification renews every 2 years, and there is no renewal fee. You need at least one 8-hour shift of paid work as a nurse aide or in a position providing nursing-related services before your certificate expires; renewal then runs 2 years from your last verified employment date.
How long does it take to get CNA certification in Connecticut?
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 Connecticut?
The Connecticut Department of Public Health - Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (860) 509-7603.
Nurse Aide Registry
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Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 5 official sources • Last verified: June 2026