New Jersey CNA Certification Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in New Jersey
Official source: licensing in New Jersey is administered by the New Jersey Department of Health - Nurse Aide Certification Program. 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
- New Jersey requires 90 hours of training (exceeds federal minimum)
- Must include at least 50 hours of classroom instruction
- Must include at least 40 hours of supervised clinical training
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
$120
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 $68.
4 Fees
Initial Certification
| Training Program | $500-$2,000* |
| Competency Exam | $120 |
| Background Check | $68 |
| Application/Registry Fee | $30 |
*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $30 |
| Work Requirement | 7 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 or RN with additional education and training
New Jersey CNA Certification FAQs
How much does CNA certification cost in New Jersey?
Expect about $218 in total initial CNA certification costs in New Jersey, including a $30 application fee and a $120 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the New Jersey Department of Health - Nurse Aide Certification Program.
How do CNAs keep their certification active in New Jersey?
New Jersey CNAs must work at least 7 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 New Jersey?
Most complete applications are processed in about 6 to 12 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.
Who issues CNA certifications in New Jersey?
The New Jersey Department of Health - Nurse Aide Certification Program handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (609) 633-9052.
Nurse Aide Registry
Free Tools
Other License Types in New Jersey
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 3 official sources • Last verified: June 2026