CNA Classes in Florida

Before enrolling in a Florida CNA program, you’ll need to meet these prerequisites:

• Be at least 18 years old or have a high school diploma/GED
• Pass a criminal background check
• Submit electronic fingerprints for screening
• Complete required health screenings (varies by program)

The Florida Board of Nursing reviews each applicant’s background individually, though healthcare fraud and public health felonies typically disqualify candidates automatically.

Florida requires comprehensive training to prepare nursing assistants:

• 120 total training hours, consisting of:
  • 80 hours of classroom instruction
  • 40 hours of clinical training
• At least 20 clinical hours must be completed in a licensed nursing home
• 16 hours of initial training before any direct resident contact

The curriculum covers essential skills including basic nursing techniques, personal care, infection control, safety procedures, and residents’ rights. While some theoretical portions may be available online, all clinical hours must be completed in-person at approved facilities.

Selecting the right training program is a key step toward certification:

• Programs are available through community colleges, vocational schools, hospitals, and long-term care facilities
• Verify program approval through the Florida Board of Nursing website
• Program costs typically include:
  • Tuition ($400-$1,500)
  • Textbooks and materials
  • Background check fees
  • Uniforms and medical requirements

Financial assistance options include the State Tuition Incentive Program (covering up to $3,000), employer-sponsored training, and payment plans. Some facilities offer free training in exchange for employment commitments.

After training, you must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) examination administered by Prometric:

• The exam includes:
  • Written test: 60 multiple-choice questions (90 minutes)
  • Skills evaluation: Demonstrating five randomly selected nursing tasks
• Fees: $155 for both components ($35 for written only, $120 for clinical only)
• You have three attempts to pass both sections
• If unsuccessful after three tries, additional training is required

On exam day, bring two forms of identification and wear appropriate attire. Arriving early helps ensure you’re prepared for both portions of the exam.

The final certification step involves registry listing:

• After passing your exam, you’re automatically registered
• Your certification becomes active within 3-5 weeks
• Maintain certification by:
  • Renewing every two years
  • Completing 24 hours of in-service training per renewal period
  • Providing proof of paid CNA employment within the previous 24 months
  • Paying renewal fees ($55 on time, $105 if late)

The Florida Nurse Aide Registry, managed by the Florida Department of Health, is your primary resource for CNA certification matters in the state.

Contact Information:

• Website: https://floridasnursing.gov/renewals/certified-nursing-assistant/ 
• Phone: (850) 245-4125
• Email: [email protected]

The registry provides services such as:

• Verifying certification status
• Processing renewal applications
• Handling license transfers
• Investigating complaints
• Maintaining a searchable database of certified nurse aides

To check your certification status, visit the Florida Department of Health License Verification portal: https://mqa-vo.doh.state.fl.us/datamart/voservicesportal 

Maintaining your CNA certification in Florida requires adherence to specific guidelines:

Renewal Requirements:

• Certification validity: 24 months
• Renewal frequency: Every 2 years
• Employment requirement: Must work at least 8 hours as a nurse aide within the 24-month certification period
• Continuing education: 24 hours of in-service training within the 2-year certification period
• Renewal process:
  • Submit renewal application online through the Florida Department of Health portal
  • Provide verification of employment
  • Submit proof of completed continuing education hours
  • Pay the renewal fee ($55)
• Lapsed certification: If your certification lapses, you may need to complete a competency evaluation or retake the CNA exam if expired more than 24 months

For renewal forms and detailed instructions, visit: https://floridasnursing.gov/renewals/

If you’re a CNA certified in another state and wish to work in Florida, follow these steps for reciprocity:

• Verify current certification in your original state
• Complete the Florida Endorsement Application
• Submit required documentation:
  • Copy of your current CNA certification
  • Proof of completing a training program that meets federal requirements
  • Verification of employment as a CNA within the last 24 months
  • State-issued ID or driver’s license
  • Criminal background check results
  • Pay the application fee ($75)
• Mail your application and documents to the Florida Board of Nursing

Allow 4-6 weeks for processing. Florida may require additional training if your original program doesn’t meet state standards.For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://floridasnursing.gov/applications/cna-reciprocity-app.pdf

Florida requires 24 hours of continuing education for CNA renewal. Here are resources to help you meet these requirements:

Education Providers:

• Florida Board of Nursing Approved Providers
  • Website: https://floridasnursing.gov/
  • Offers a list of approved continuing education providers
• Florida Health Care Association
  • Website: https://www.fhca.org/education
  • Provides workshops and online courses specifically for CNAs
• Florida Nurses Association
  • Website: https://www.floridanurse.org/page/ProfessionalDevelopment 
  • Offers continuing education opportunities for all nursing professionals
• Florida Community College System
  • Website: https://www.fldoe.org/schools/higher-ed/fl-college-system/
  • Many colleges offer healthcare-related continuing education courses