CNA Entry-Level

Texas CNA Certification Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Texas

Training Hours

100+ hours

Total Initial Cost

$155

Program Duration

4-12 weeks for training program

Renewal Period

2 years

Official source: licensing in Texas is administered by the Texas Health and Human Services - Nurse Aide Registry. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Texas.

Apply on Official Site

How do you renew a CNA certification in Texas?

Texas CNA certification renews every 2 years, and there is no renewal fee. Your registration expires 24 months after it was issued or 24 months after your last verified employment as a nurse aide, whichever is earlier. To renew, a nursing facility (or you) submits HHSC Form 5506-NAR documenting paid nursing or nursing-related services, and you must also complete an HHSC infection control and PPE course every year and at least 24 hours of in-service education every two years.

Source: 26 Tex. Admin. Code § 556.9 (amended eff. 9/18/2024), checked 2026-11-06.

1 Training Program Requirements

Program Requirements

Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program

100+

Minimum training hours

4-12 weeks for training program

Typical program length

Additional Requirements

Must complete a state-approved nurse aide training and competency evaluation program (NATCEP)
Texas requires 100 hours of training (60 classroom, 40 clinical)
Includes supervised clinical experience in a healthcare facility
Program must be approved by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services

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

$113

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

Texas DPS and FBI criminal background check

CNAs work with vulnerable populations, so background checks are required in all states. Cost is typically $42.

4 Fees

Initial Certification

Training Program	$500-$2,000*
Competency Exam	$113
Background Check	$42
Application/Registry Fee	$0

*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

Certification Renewal

2 years

Renewal cycle

Your registration expires 24 months after it was issued or 24 months after your last verified employment as a nurse aide, whichever is earlier. To renew, a nursing facility (or you) submits HHSC Form 5506-NAR documenting paid nursing or nursing-related services, and you must also complete an HHSC infection control and PPE course every year and at least 24 hours of in-service education every two years.

Career Advancement

CNAs can advance to LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) or RN with additional education. Texas uses LVN instead of LPN. Many community colleges offer bridge programs.

LVN/LPN Licensing RN Requirements All Career Paths

Texas CNA Certification FAQs

How much does CNA certification cost in Texas?

Expect about $155 in total initial CNA certification costs in Texas, including a $113 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Texas Health and Human Services - Nurse Aide Registry.

How do you renew a CNA certification in Texas?

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

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 12 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues CNA certifications in Texas?

The Texas Health and Human Services - Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (512) 438-2050.