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

Official source: licensing in Indiana is administered by the Indiana State Department of 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 Indiana.

Apply on Official Site

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)	$Varies
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

LVN/LPN Licensing RN Requirements All Career Paths

Indiana CNA Certification FAQs

How much does CNA certification cost in Indiana?

Expect about $135 in total initial CNA certification costs in Indiana, including a $15 application fee and a $85 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Indiana State Department of Health / Nurse Aide Registry.

How do CNAs keep their certification active in Indiana?

Indiana 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 Indiana?

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 Indiana?

The Indiana State Department of Health / Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (317) 233-7351.