CNA Entry-Level

Wisconsin CNA Certification Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Wisconsin

Training Hours

120+ hours

Total Initial Cost

$168

Program Duration

6-12 weeks for training program

Renewal Period

2 years

Official source: licensing in Wisconsin is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional 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 Wisconsin.

Apply on Official Site

How do you renew a CNA certification in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin CNA certification renews every 2 years, and there is no renewal fee. You need at least 8 hours of paid hands-on care in a 24-month period, supervised by an RN or LPN.

Source: Wisconsin DHS: Maintain Nurse Aide Registry status, checked 2026-11-05.

1 Training Program Requirements

Program Requirements

Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program

120+

Minimum training hours

6-12 weeks for training program

Typical program length

Additional Requirements

Wisconsin requires 120 hours of nurse aide training
Must include 32 hours of clinical training
Program must be approved by the Wisconsin DHS

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

$118

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

Criminal 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	$118
Background Check	$50
Application/Registry Fee	$0

*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)	$0
Work Requirement	8 hours in 24 months

Certification Renewal

2 years

Renewal cycle

8+ hours

Work requirement

You need at least 8 hours of paid hands-on care in a 24-month period, supervised by an RN or LPN.

Career Advancement

CNAs can advance to LPN/LVN or RN with additional education

LVN/LPN Licensing RN Requirements All Career Paths

Wisconsin CNA Certification FAQs

How much does CNA certification cost in Wisconsin?

Expect about $168 in total initial CNA certification costs in Wisconsin, including a $118 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services - Nurse Aide Registry.

How do you renew a CNA certification in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin CNA certification renews every 2 years, and there is no renewal fee. You need at least 8 hours of paid hands-on care in a 24-month period, supervised by an RN or LPN.

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

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 Wisconsin?

The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services - Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (608) 266-2112.