Washington CNA Certification Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Washington
Official source: licensing in Washington is administered by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission - Nurse Aide Registry. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Washington.
Apply on Official Site1 Training Program Requirements
Program Requirements
Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program
Additional Requirements
- Washington requires 85 hours of nurse aide training
- Must include classroom instruction and clinical training
- Program must be approved by the Washington NCQAC
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
$116
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 | $116 |
| Background Check | $50 |
| Application/Registry Fee | $85 |
*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 1 years) | $95 |
| Work Requirement | 8 hours in 12 months |
Certification Renewal
To maintain your CNA certification, you must renew every 1 years and typically demonstrate that you've worked as a CNA during that period.
Career Advancement
CNAs can advance to LPN/LVN or RN with additional education
Washington CNA Certification FAQs
How much does CNA certification cost in Washington?
Expect about $241 in total initial CNA certification costs in Washington, including a $85 application fee and a $116 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission - Nurse Aide Registry.
How do CNAs keep their certification active in Washington?
Washington CNAs must work at least 8 paid hours of nursing-related duties during each 1-year renewal period to stay on the state registry.
How long does it take to get CNA certification in Washington?
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 Washington?
The Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission - Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (360) 236-4703.
Nurse Aide Registry
Free Tools
Other License Types in Washington
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 2 official sources • Last verified: June 2026