Virginia CNA Certification Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Virginia
Official source: licensing in Virginia is administered by the Virginia Board of Nursing - Nurse Aide Registry. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Virginia.
Apply on Official SiteHow do you renew a CNA certification in Virginia?
Virginia CNA certification renews every year, and the renewal fee is $30. You need to have done paid nursing-related work at some point in the 2 years before expiration; there is no minimum number of hours.
Source: 18VAC90-25-80, checked 2026-11-05.
1 Training Program Requirements
Program Requirements
Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program
Additional Requirements
- Virginia requires 120 hours of nurse aide training
- Must include at least 40 hours of clinical training
- Program must be approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing
2 Competency Examination
Exam Name
Nurse Aide Competency Exam
Test Provider
Pearson VUE
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
$115
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 $50.
4 Fees
Initial Certification
| Training Program | $500-$2,000* |
| Competency Exam | $115 |
| Background Check | $50 |
| Application/Registry Fee | $0 |
*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 1 year) | $30 |
Certification Renewal
You need to have done paid nursing-related work at some point in the 2 years before expiration; there is no minimum number of hours.
Career Advancement
CNAs can advance to LPN/LVN or RN with additional education
Virginia CNA Certification FAQs
How much does CNA certification cost in Virginia?
Expect about $215 in total initial CNA certification costs in Virginia, including a $115 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Virginia Board of Nursing - Nurse Aide Registry.
How do you renew a CNA certification in Virginia?
Virginia CNA certification renews every year, and the renewal fee is $30. You need to have done paid nursing-related work at some point in the 2 years before expiration; there is no minimum number of hours.
How long does it take to get CNA certification in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
The Virginia Board of Nursing - Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (804) 367-4515.
Nurse Aide Registry
Free Tools
Other License Types in Virginia
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 3 official sources • Last verified: June 2026