CNA Entry-Level

Louisiana CNA Certification Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Louisiana

Training Hours

80+ hours

Total Initial Cost

$180

Program Duration

4-8 weeks for training program

Renewal Period

2 years

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

Apply on Official Site

How do you renew a CNA certification in Louisiana?

Louisiana CNA certification renews every 2 years. You must work at least 8 hours of nursing or nurse-related duties during every 24-month certification period in an approved licensed setting (for example nursing homes, hospitals, home health, hospice, assisted living). You are recertified automatically if your work history is reported to the registry before the period ends.

Source: Louisiana Department of Health, Health Standards Section: CNA Informational Section, checked 2026-11-06.

1 Training Program Requirements

Program Requirements

Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program

80+

Minimum training hours

4-8 weeks for training program

Typical program length

Additional Requirements

Louisiana requires 80 hours of approved training
Must include classroom and clinical training components
Program must be approved by Louisiana Department of Health

2 Competency Examination

Exam Name

Louisiana 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

$105

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	$105
Background Check	$50
Application/Registry Fee	$0

*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)	Not confirmed
Work Requirement	8 hours in 24 months

Certification Renewal

2 years

Renewal cycle

8+ hours

Work requirement

You must work at least 8 hours of nursing or nurse-related duties during every 24-month certification period in an approved licensed setting (for example nursing homes, hospitals, home health, hospice, assisted living). You are recertified automatically if your work history is reported to the registry before the period ends.

Career Advancement

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

LVN/LPN Licensing RN Requirements All Career Paths

Louisiana CNA Certification FAQs

How much does CNA certification cost in Louisiana?

Expect about $180 in total initial CNA certification costs in Louisiana, including a $105 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Louisiana Department of Health / Nurse Aide Registry.

How do you renew a CNA certification in Louisiana?

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

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 Louisiana?

The Louisiana Department of Health / Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (225) 342-0138.