In order to register for a certified nursing assistant (CNA) certification course, you must have attained a high school diploma or general education diploma (GED). A high school diploma requires completing the state requirements for kindergarten through twelfth grade. Therefore, 13 years of education are required prior to enrolling in a CNA course.
Requirements to complete a GED vary according to the state. Generally, a prospective candidate must be at least 16 years of age and achieve a passing score on the various subject tests required for GED completion.
CNA course durations vary according to the administrator, although most run for six to twelve weeks of full-time study. The Red Cross, community colleges and hospitals are all administrators of CNA courses.
In order to attain a CNA license you must achieve CPR certification. This requires attending a one-day course and passing the certification examination.
A CNA license must be renewed every year. You must submit an application to the state board of nursing prior to license expiration.