CNA Entry-Level

Hawaii CNA Certification Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Hawaii

Training Hours

100+ hours

Total Initial Cost

$190

Program Duration

4-8 weeks for training program

Renewal Period

2 years

Official source: licensing in Hawaii is administered by the Hawaii 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 Hawaii.

Apply on Official Site

How do you renew a CNA certification in Hawaii?

Hawaii CNA certification renews every 2 years. You must have been paid to provide at least one full day of nursing or nursing-related direct patient care within the prior 24 months, verified on a department-approved renewal form received at least 30 days before your biennial expiration date. If you work in a Medicare/Medicaid nursing facility, the facility must also verify an annual performance review and in-service training; in other state-licensed settings you also complete a competency evaluation.

Source: Haw. Code R. § 16-89A-4 (Maintenance requirements for recertification), via Cornell LII, checked 2026-11-06.

1 Training Program Requirements

Program Requirements

Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program

100+

Minimum training hours

4-8 weeks for training program

Typical program length

Additional Requirements

Hawaii requires 100 hours of approved training (exceeds federal minimum)
Must include classroom and clinical training
Program must be approved by Hawaii Board of Nursing

2 Competency Examination

Exam Name

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

Criminal background check

CNAs work with vulnerable populations, so background checks are required in all states. Cost is typically $50.

4 Fees

Initial Certification

Training Program	$500-$2,000*
Competency Exam	$115
Background Check	$50
Application/Registry Fee	$25

*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

Not confirmed

Certification Renewal

2 years

Renewal cycle

You must have been paid to provide at least one full day of nursing or nursing-related direct patient care within the prior 24 months, verified on a department-approved renewal form received at least 30 days before your biennial expiration date. If you work in a Medicare/Medicaid nursing facility, the facility must also verify an annual performance review and in-service training; in other state-licensed settings you also complete a competency evaluation.

Career Advancement

CNAs can advance to LPN/LVN or RN with additional education

LVN/LPN Licensing RN Requirements All Career Paths

Hawaii CNA Certification FAQs

How much does CNA certification cost in Hawaii?

Expect about $190 in total initial CNA certification costs in Hawaii, including a $25 application fee and a $115 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Hawaii Board of Nursing / Nurse Aide Registry.

How do you renew a CNA certification in Hawaii?

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

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 12 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues CNA certifications in Hawaii?

The Hawaii Board of Nursing / Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (808) 586-2695.