CNA Entry-Level

Indiana CNA Certification Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Indiana

Training Hours
105+ hours
Total Initial Cost
$135
Program Duration
4-8 weeks for training program
Renewal Period
2 years

1 Training Program Requirements

Program Requirements

Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program

105+
Minimum training hours
4-8 weeks for training program
Typical program length

Additional Requirements

  • Indiana requires 105 hours of approved training
  • Must include at least 75 hours classroom and 30 hours clinical
  • Program must be approved by Indiana State Department of Health

2 Competency Examination

Exam Name

Indiana Nurse Aide Competency Exam

Test Provider

Ivy Tech Testing Centers

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

$85

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

Limited criminal history 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 $85
Background Check $35
Application/Registry Fee $15

*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years) $15
Work Requirement 8 hours in 24 months

Certification Renewal

2 years
Renewal cycle
8+ hours
Work requirement

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