CNA classes are state-approved training programs that prepare students to pass the Certified Nursing Assistant competency exam and work in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies. Every U.S. state requires CNA candidates to complete a minimum of 75 hours of combined classroom instruction and supervised clinical training, though most states require 100–180 hours. Programs are offered by community colleges, vocational schools, hospitals, the American Red Cross, and online hybrid platforms.
The demand for CNAs continues to grow: the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 216,000 new CNA job openings annually through 2032, making CNA classes one of the fastest pathways into healthcare. Training typically costs between $500 and $2,000 at community colleges, though free CNA classes are available through many nursing homes and employer-sponsored programs. After completing your CNA classes and passing the state competency exam, you can begin working immediately — most new CNAs find employment within 1–3 weeks of certification.
This guide covers every type of CNA class available in 2026, including online hybrid options, state-specific CNA requirements, program costs, and a step-by-step enrollment timeline. Whether you are searching for CNA classes near you or evaluating online programs, this page will help you choose the right training path.
CNA class costs vary significantly depending on the program type, state, and whether financial aid or employer sponsorship is available. Community college programs are the most affordable option for self-pay students, while hospital and nursing home-sponsored programs offer free training in exchange for a work commitment. Below is a cost comparison of the six main CNA program types.
California requires 160 hours of state-approved CNA training (60 classroom + 100 clinical). Programs are offered by community colleges statewide, with tuition averaging $800–$1,500. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) maintains the Nurse Aide Registry. Washington requires 85 hours of training and offers some of the highest CNA wages in the country at $20–$28/hr. Oregon requires 155 hours and has a strong demand for CNAs in rural healthcare facilities. Colorado requires 80 hours minimum and has over 200 approved training programs. Arizona requires 120 hours with clinical rotations at AHCCCS-approved facilities. Nevada, Utah, and Hawaii each have 75–120 hour requirements with state-specific CNA registry processes.
Illinois requires 120 hours of CNA training and is one of the most affordable states for community college programs ($400–$900). The Illinois Department of Public Health oversees certification. Ohio requires 75 hours (the federal minimum) and has one of the largest CNA workforces in the country. Michigan requires 75 hours and offers employer-paid programs at most skilled nursing facilities. Minnesota requires 75 hours with a focus on dementia care training. Wisconsin requires 120 hours and has a strong demand for CNAs in long-term care. Indiana, Iowa, and Missouri all follow the 75-hour federal minimum, making them among the fastest states to complete CNA CNA Requirements.
Texas requires 100 hours of CNA training and has the second-largest CNA workforce in the nation. Community college programs cost $500–$1,200, and many nursing homes offer free CNA classes statewide. Florida requires 120 hours with mandatory background screening through the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA). Georgia requires 85 hours and has a growing demand for CNAs in the Atlanta metro area. North Carolina requires 75 hours and maintains one of the most accessible state CNA Registry. Virginia requires 120 hours with a strong hospital-sponsored program network. Tennessee, Alabama, and Louisiana each require 75–100 hours with competitive pay growth in urban healthcare markets.
New York requires 100 hours of state-approved CNA training and employs over 120,000 active CNAs. Programs in NYC metro average $1,000–$1,800, while upstate community colleges charge $500–$900. Pennsylvania requires 80 hours and has a strong network of vocational school programs alongside community colleges. Massachusetts requires 100 hours and offers some of the highest CNA pay in the country at $19–$26/hr. New Jersey requires 90 hours with the Department of Health overseeing certification. Connecticut requires 100 hours and has high demand in skilled nursing facilities throughout the state. Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire all require 75–180 hours and offer rural healthcare CNA positions with competitive CNA scholarships.
Choosing the right CNA program directly affects your certification timeline, exam pass rate, and job prospects. Use this checklist to evaluate any CNA class before enrolling. Programs that meet all of these criteria typically have pass rates above 90% and strong job placement records.
Preparing for your CNA classes and certification exam requires understanding the full scope of what CNAs do on the job. These related guides cover every aspect of CNA training, employment, and career advancement: