Oregon CNA Certification Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Oregon
Official source: licensing in Oregon is administered by the Oregon State Board of Nursing. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Oregon.
Apply on Official SiteHow do you renew a CNA certification in Oregon?
Oregon CNA certification renews every 2 years, and the renewal fee is $60. To renew, you must have worked at least 400 hours in a paid position within the last two years with active CNA certification, and attest to at least two hours of cultural competency education in the two years before applying. If you have been certified less than two years or passed the competency exam within the last two years, you are exempt from the 400 hours; CMA hours and RN/LPN practice hours can count, and nursing students can renew with proof of enrollment instead.
Source: Or. Admin. Code § 851-062-0070 (version effective 7/1/2025), Renewal of CNA 1 and 2 Certification, checked 2026-11-06.
1 Training Program Requirements
Program Requirements
Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program
Additional Requirements
- Must complete a state-approved CNA training program
- Oregon requires 155 hours of training (CNA 1) or 180 hours (CNA 2)
- Includes classroom instruction and supervised clinical experience
- Program must be approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing
2 Competency Examination
Exam Name
Oregon CNA 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
$110
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 $58.
4 Fees
Initial Certification
| Training Program | $500-$2,000* |
| Competency Exam | $110 |
| Background Check | $58 |
| Application/Registry Fee | $106 |
*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $60 |
| Work Requirement | 400 hours in 24 months |
Certification Renewal
To renew, you must have worked at least 400 hours in a paid position within the last two years with active CNA certification, and attest to at least two hours of cultural competency education in the two years before applying. If you have been certified less than two years or passed the competency exam within the last two years, you are exempt from the 400 hours; CMA hours and RN/LPN practice hours can count, and nursing students can renew with proof of enrollment instead.
Career Advancement
CNAs can advance from CNA 1 to CNA 2 with additional training. CNAs can also pursue LPN or RN licensure through additional education programs.
Oregon CNA Certification FAQs
How much does CNA certification cost in Oregon?
Expect about $218 in total initial CNA certification costs in Oregon, including a $106 application fee and a $110 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Oregon State Board of Nursing.
How do you renew a CNA certification in Oregon?
Oregon CNA certification renews every 2 years, and the renewal fee is $60. To renew, you must have worked at least 400 hours in a paid position within the last two years with active CNA certification, and attest to at least two hours of cultural competency education in the two years before applying. If you have been certified less than two years or passed the competency exam within the last two years, you are exempt from the 400 hours; CMA hours and RN/LPN practice hours can count, and nursing students can renew with proof of enrollment instead.
How long does it take to get CNA certification in Oregon?
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 Oregon?
The Oregon State Board of Nursing handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (971) 673-0685.
Nurse Aide Registry
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Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 4 official sources • Last verified: June 2026