Hawaii CNA Certification Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Hawaii
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.
Apply on Official Site1 Training Program Requirements
Program Requirements
Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program
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
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) | $27 |
| Work Requirement | 8 hours in 24 months |
Certification Renewal
To maintain your CNA certification, you must renew every 2 years and typically demonstrate that you've worked as a CNA during that period.
Career Advancement
CNAs can advance to LPN/LVN or RN with additional education
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 CNAs keep their certification active in Hawaii?
Hawaii CNAs must work at least 8 paid hours of nursing-related duties during each 2-year renewal period to stay on the state registry.
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.
Nurse Aide Registry
Free Tools
Other License Types in Hawaii
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 3 official sources • Last verified: June 2026