How Long Does It Take to Become a CNA? (2025 Guide)

When I first started looking into a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), my biggest question was: “How long does it actually take to become a CNA?” The good news is that the CNA pathway is one of the fastest and most affordable routes into healthcare. Let’s break down the timeline in 2025 — from training to certification — so you know exactly what to expect.

Step 1: Complete a CNA Training Program

The first step is enrolling in a state-approved CNA training program.

  • Program Length (2025): Usually 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time.
  • Total Hours: Most states require 75–150 hours of combined classroom and clinical training.
  • Format: Training includes lectures, lab practice, and supervised clinical experience.

👉 Many community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare facilities offer CNA training programs.

Step 2: Apply for the CNA Exam

After completing your training program:

  • You’ll apply to take your state’s CNA exam (often through Pearson VUE, Prometric, or Headmaster).
  • This process usually takes 1–4 weeks, depending on your state’s scheduling and testing availability.

Step 3: Take the CNA Exam

The CNA exam has two parts:

  1. Written Exam: 60–70 multiple-choice questions.
  2. Skills Exam: 5 randomly assigned CNA skills (including hand washing).

👉 Results are often available within a few days, though some states provide same-day results.

Step 4: Get Added to the Nurse Aide Registry

Once you pass both exam sections, you’ll be added to your state’s Nurse Aide Registry.

  • This is the official list of certified CNAs in your state.
  • Most states update within 1–2 weeks of passing.

At this point, you can legally work as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

Total Time to Become a CNA (2025)

From start to finish, here’s the typical timeline:

  • CNA Training Program: 1–3 months.
  • Exam Application & Scheduling: 2–4 weeks.
  • Exam & Results: 1–2 weeks.

👉 Overall: You can usually become a CNA in 2–4 months, though some accelerated programs allow completion in as little as 4–6 weeks.

Pro Study Tip 📘

Finishing training is just step one — the real key is passing the CNA exam on your first try.

👉 Check out our CNA Practice Questions + Study Guide — updated for 2025, with exam-style questions, rationales, and complete CNA skills checklists to make sure you’re ready when exam day comes.

CNA Timeline (2025)

Step Timeframe
CNA Training Program 4–12 weeks
Exam Scheduling 1–4 weeks
Exam + Results 1–2 weeks
Total 2–4 months (some as fast as 4–6 weeks)

✅ Final Thought: In most states, it takes just 2–4 months to become a CNA, making it one of the fastest entry-level healthcare careers. With a short training program, a straightforward exam, and high demand in the job market, becoming a CNA is an excellent first step into nursing and healthcare.

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