CNA Entry-Level

Pennsylvania CNA Certification Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Pennsylvania

Training Hours

120+ hours

Total Initial Cost

$147

Program Duration

4-10 weeks for training program

Renewal Period

2 years

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.

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1 Training Program Requirements

Program Requirements

Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program

120+

Minimum training hours

4-10 weeks for training program

Typical program length

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

Pennsylvania State Police and FBI 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)	$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 or RN with additional education. Pennsylvania has many nursing schools and community colleges offering bridge programs.

LVN/LPN Licensing RN Requirements All Career Paths

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 CNAs keep their certification active in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania 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 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.