Pennsylvania CNA Certification Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Pennsylvania
Official source: licensing in Pennsylvania is administered by the Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania.
Apply on Official SiteHow do you renew a CNA certification in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania CNA certification renews every 2 years. To stay on the registry, you must work as a nurse aide at least one documented day (8 consecutive hours) for pay in a Pennsylvania approved facility, such as a nursing home, personal care home, hospital, home health setting or intermediate care facility, during the previous 24 months. Self-employment, private duty and work in doctors' offices do not count; a renewed registry card is valid for the next 24 months.
Source: Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry (Credentia, registry operator for PA Department of Health): The Registry, 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 nurse aide training and competency evaluation program (NATCEP)
- Pennsylvania requires 120 hours of training (80 classroom, 40 clinical)
- Includes supervised clinical experience in a long-term care facility
- Program must be approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Health
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
$102
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 $45.
4 Fees
Initial Certification
| Training Program | $500-$2,000* |
| Competency Exam | $102 |
| Background Check | $45 |
| 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
To stay on the registry, you must work as a nurse aide at least one documented day (8 consecutive hours) for pay in a Pennsylvania approved facility, such as a nursing home, personal care home, hospital, home health setting or intermediate care facility, during the previous 24 months. Self-employment, private duty and work in doctors' offices do not count; a renewed registry card is valid for the next 24 months.
Career Advancement
CNAs can advance to LPN or RN with additional education. Pennsylvania has many nursing schools and community colleges offering bridge programs.
Pennsylvania CNA Certification FAQs
How much does CNA certification cost in Pennsylvania?
Expect about $147 in total initial CNA certification costs in Pennsylvania, including a $102 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Pennsylvania Department of Health - Nurse Aide Registry.
How do you renew a CNA certification in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania CNA certification renews every 2 years. To stay on the registry, you must work as a nurse aide at least one documented day (8 consecutive hours) for pay in a Pennsylvania approved facility, such as a nursing home, personal care home, hospital, home health setting or intermediate care facility, during the previous 24 months. Self-employment, private duty and work in doctors' offices do not count; a renewed registry card is valid for the next 24 months.
How long does it take to get CNA certification in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
The Pennsylvania Department of Health - Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (717) 783-1389.
Nurse Aide Registry
Free Tools
Other License Types in Pennsylvania
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 2 official sources • Last verified: June 2026