CNA Entry-Level

Tennessee CNA Certification Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Tennessee

Training Hours

75+ hours

Total Initial Cost

$135

Program Duration

4-10 weeks for training program

Renewal Period

2 years

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

Apply on Official Site

How do you renew a CNA certification in Tennessee?

Tennessee CNA certification renews every 2 years. You must renew every two years and verify that you worked at least eight hours during the past 24 months in a licensed or certified healthcare facility, shown by a pay stub, payroll printout or notarized attestation form. Private duty, sitter, companion services and private physicians' offices do not count; the 8 hours do not have to be consecutive.

Source: Tennessee Health Facilities Commission: Nurse Aide Information, checked 2026-11-06.

1 Training Program Requirements

Program Requirements

Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program

75+

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)
Minimum 75 hours of training including classroom and clinical instruction
At least 16 hours must be supervised clinical training
Program must be approved by the Tennessee 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

$95

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

TBI and FBI criminal background check

CNAs work with vulnerable populations, so background checks are required in all states. Cost is typically $40.

4 Fees

Initial Certification

Training Program	$500-$2,000*
Competency Exam	$95
Background Check	$40
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 renew every two years and verify that you worked at least eight hours during the past 24 months in a licensed or certified healthcare facility, shown by a pay stub, payroll printout or notarized attestation form. Private duty, sitter, companion services and private physicians' offices do not count; the 8 hours do not have to be consecutive.

Career Advancement

CNAs can advance to LPN or RN with additional education. Tennessee offers many nursing programs and career ladder opportunities.

LVN/LPN Licensing RN Requirements All Career Paths

Tennessee CNA Certification FAQs

How much does CNA certification cost in Tennessee?

Expect about $135 in total initial CNA certification costs in Tennessee, including a $95 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Tennessee Department of Health - Nurse Aide Registry.

How do you renew a CNA certification in Tennessee?

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

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 Tennessee?

The Tennessee Department of Health - Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (615) 741-7203.