CNA Classes in Hawaii
Start your CNA career in Hawaii with confidence. Explore accredited CNA classes, certification requirements, and career opportunities across the state.
Training Hours
State-approved CNA programs require a minimum of 100 hours to qualify for certification.
Program Costs
CNA Training costs range from free to $1,000+, with financial aid or employer support at some schools.
CNA Salary
Certified Nursing Assistants in Hawaii earn an average annual salary of $44,990 based on the latest data.
Verified Sources
This page is backed by trusted sources, including state agencies and labor data reports.
Why Become a CNA in Hawaii?
Hawaii presents a thriving landscape for Certified Nursing Assistant careers in 2025. With nearly 25% of Hawaii’s residents projected to be over age 65 by 2030, the demand for qualified caregivers continues to rise dramatically. The state currently faces a significant healthcare worker shortage, including over 1,000 entry-level positions such as CNAs, with rural areas like Hawaii County particularly affected. As a CNA in Hawaii, you’ll earn competitive wages averaging $37,000-$42,000 annually, well above the national average. Whether you’re starting your healthcare journey or seeking a meaningful career change, Hawaii offers accessible training programs, strong advancement pathways, and the chance to make a real difference in communities facing urgent healthcare staffing challenges.
Find & Compare CNA Classes in Hawaii
You’ve learned why becoming a CNA is a smart move — now explore training options near you. Use the ZIP code search or browse our regularly updated list of accredited CNA programs in Hawaii to compare costs, durations, and locations. We review this directory frequently to ensure accuracy, and all programs listed are verified through official school and state sources.
| School Name | Telephone | Street | City | State | Zip Code | Cost | Duration | Details Page |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Care School of Hawaii | (808) 488-9449 | 98-025 Hekaha St. Suite 4 | Aiea | HI | 96701 | $990.00 | Multiple Formats | View Details |
| Kapi'olani Community College | (808) 734-9305 | 4303 Diamond Head Rd | Honolulu | HI | 96816 | $786.00 | 8 Weeks | View Details |
| Windward Community College | (808) 235-7433 | 45-720 Kea'ahala Rd | Kāne'ohe | HI | 96744 | Contact for Detail | Contact for Detail | View Details |
| University of Hawaii Maui College, Molokai | (808) 553-4490 | 310 W. Ka'ahumanu Ave | Kahului | HI | 96732 | $786.00 | One Semester | View Details |
| Kaua'i Community College | (808) 245-8311 | 3-1901 Kaumualii Hwy | Lihue | HI | 96766 | $655.00 | One Semester | View Details |
Disclaimer: Program costs, class schedules, and durations listed are based on information publicly available from each school’s official website at the time of publication. Details may change without notice. We recommend contacting the school directly to confirm the most accurate and up-to-date information. CNAClasses.com is not affiliated with the programs listed and does not guarantee pricing, availability, or course details. If you notice outdated or incorrect information, please contact us so we can make updates.
Not Sure Where to Start?
We’ll walk you through every step — from CNA classes to certification.
How to Become a CNA in Hawaii
Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Hawaii opens the door to a rewarding healthcare career in a state with excellent compensation for CNAs. The certification process is overseen by the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA), with Prometric handling exam administration and registry management.
Hawaii CNA programs require a minimum of 100 hours of training, including 30 hours of supervised clinical experience. Most programs can be completed in 4-8 weeks, with wages for Hawaii CNAs averaging $22.19 per hour ($44,990 annually), among the highest in the nation. By understanding the requirements and following the steps below, you’ll be well-positioned to launch your CNA career in the Aloha State.
1) Eligibility Requirements for CNA Training in Hawaii
Before enrolling in a CNA program in Hawaii, you must satisfy several prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must have a high school diploma or GED (required by most programs)
- Must pass a criminal background check
- Must complete required health screenings:
- Physical examination confirming ability to perform essential job functions
- Negative tuberculosis (TB) test
- Up-to-date immunizations
- Drug screening (may be required by some programs)
While specific background check requirements aren’t detailed in state regulations, healthcare facilities typically require clean records regarding patient abuse, violent crimes, and certain drug offenses.
2) CNA Training Hour Requirements in Hawaii
Hawaii has specific requirements for CNA training programs to ensure all nursing assistants receive standardized education:
- Total of 100 training hours required, consisting of:
- 70 hours of classroom instruction
- 30 hours of supervised clinical training in healthcare settings
- Core curriculum topics include:
- Basic nursing skills
- Infection control procedures
- Patient safety protocols
- Personal care techniques
- Vital signs monitoring
- Communication skills
- Patient rights and dignity
All programs must be approved by the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. For information about training programs, contact Lori Tsuruda at the Department of Human Services Med-QUEST Division at (808) 586-7752.
3) Complete an Accredited CNA Training Program in Hawaii
Finding an approved CNA training program is an essential step in your certification journey:
- Training is offered through various approved providers:
- Community colleges
- Vocational schools
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Long-term care facilities
To verify a program’s approval status, contact the Department of Human Services Med-QUEST Division.
Program costs vary by provider but typically include:
- Tuition (ranging from $800-$2,500)
- Textbooks and study materials
- Background check fees
- Uniform costs
- Medical requirements like TB tests
While specific financial aid information for Hawaii CNA programs isn’t detailed in state regulations, potential options include:
- Workforce development programs
- Employer-sponsored training
- Payment plans offered by training providers
- Federal financial aid for programs that are part of larger institutions
4) Pass the CNA Certification Exam in Hawaii
After completing your training, you must pass the competency examination administered by Prometric:
- The exam consists of two parts:
- Written test: Multiple-choice questions testing theoretical knowledge
- Skills evaluation: Demonstration of nursing assistant skills
- For exam information and to download applications, visit www.prometric.com/nurseaide/hi
- Contact Prometric at (808) 261-8182 for application deadlines and examination dates
On exam day, bring government-issued photo identification and dress appropriately. Arrive early to complete registration procedures and prepare mentally for both portions of the exam.
Upon passing both sections of the competency test, your certificate will be mailed to you automatically.
5) Register with the Hawaii CNA Registry
The final step is being listed on the Hawaii Nurse Aide Registry:
- After passing your exam, you are automatically added to Hawaii’s Nurse Aide Registry
- The registry is managed by Prometric
- The Department of Health requires all employers to search the registry prior to employing a Nurse Aide
To verify your certification status, visit the Hawaii Nurse Aide Registry at: https://registry.prometric.com/publicH
With your Hawaii CNA certification, you’ll be qualified to work in various healthcare settings across the islands, enjoying one of the highest average CNA salaries in the nation at $44,990 annually.
For additional questions or concerns, contact the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs at https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/programs/nurse/ or Prometric at (808) 261-8182.
Ready to Start CNA Training in Hawaii?
Now that you know the steps, it’s time to take the first one. Use our directory to find accredited CNA programs near you and begin your training with confidence.
Key Hawaii CNA Certification Contacts & Guidelines
Welcome to your comprehensive resource hub for CNA information in the Aloha State. Hawaii offers unique opportunities for healthcare professionals, with competitive wages averaging $22.19 per hour and a growing elderly population that now makes up 19.2% of residents. Whether you’re starting your CNA journey or advancing your career, these essential tools and official contacts will help you navigate certification, employment, and professional development in Hawaii’s distinctive healthcare landscape.
Hawaii Nurse Aide Registry
The Hawaii Department of Health, Office of Health Care Assurance manages the state’s Nurse Aide Registry, which is your primary resource for certification matters in Hawaii.
Contact Information:
- Website: https://health.hawaii.gov/ohca/
- Phone: (808) 692-7420
- 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 Hawaii Nurse Aide Registry Search portal: https://registry.prometric.com/publicHI
Certification Renewal in Hawaii
Maintaining your CNA certification in Hawaii 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: No formal continuing education requirements for basic renewal
- Renewal process:
- Submit renewal application online through the Hawaii Nurse Aide Registry
- Provide verification of employment
- Pay the renewal fee ($25)
- 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://www.prometric.com/files/HI_RegistryRecertificationForm.pdf
CNA Reciprocity in Hawaii
If you’re a CNA certified in another state and wish to work in Hawaii, follow these steps for reciprocity:
- Verify current certification in your original state
- Complete the Hawaii Application for Reciprocity
- 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 ($25)
- Mail your application and documents to the Hawaii Nurse Aide Registry
Allow 4-6 weeks for processing. Hawaii may require additional training if your original program doesn’t meet state standards.
For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://www.prometric.com/files/HI_CNA_APP.pdf
Continuing Education Opportunities
While Hawaii doesn’t mandate continuing education for CNA renewal, ongoing learning can enhance your skills and career prospects:
Education Providers:
- University of Hawaii Community College System
- Website: https://www.uhcc.hawaii.edu/ovpcc/
- Offers healthcare-related courses at campuses throughout the state
- Healthcare Association of Hawaii
- Website: https://www.hah.org/education/
- Provides workshops and online courses specifically for CNAs
- Hawaii Nurses Association
- Website: https://hawaiinurses.org/
- Offers continuing education opportunities for all nursing professionals
- American Red Cross of Hawaii
- Website: https://www.redcross.org/local/hawaii.html
- Provides healthcare training and certification courses
The healthcare industry in Hawaii continues to expand, with increasing demand for qualified CNAs, particularly in long-term care facilities and home health settings.
By utilizing these resources and staying informed about Hawaii’s CNA requirements, you’ll be well-equipped to thrive in your healthcare career. Remember to regularly check the Hawaii Department of Health website for the most up-to-date information and announcements regarding your CNA certification.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a CNA in Hawaii
Certain criminal convictions can disqualify you from becoming a CNA in Hawaii, particularly those involving abuse, neglect, or violent crimes. The Hawaii Department of Health conducts mandatory background checks, and convictions for patient abuse, theft, drug offenses, or fraud may prevent certification. Additionally, providing false information on your application, failing to complete the required training hours, or not passing both portions of the competency evaluation will result in disqualification.
You cannot complete your entire CNA training online in Hawaii. While some programs may offer theoretical portions through distance learning, Hawaii requires hands-on clinical training that must be completed in-person at approved healthcare facilities. The state mandates a minimum of 100 hours of training with substantial clinical practice that cannot be fulfilled virtually. Any program advertising fully online CNA certification in Hawaii would not meet state requirements for licensure.
No, you cannot take the CNA test without completing approved training in Hawaii. The state requires all candidates to complete a state-approved training program before being eligible to sit for the certification exam. There are no testing-only options or experience substitutions allowed under Hawaii regulations. Even healthcare professionals with related experience must complete the formal CNA training program to qualify for the certification examination.
You cannot legally work as a CNA in Hawaii without certification. State regulations require all nursing assistants to be certified before performing CNA duties in any healthcare facility. Hawaii does allow students enrolled in approved training programs to work in limited capacities as “nurse aide trainees” for up to 120 days while completing their education and certification process. After this period, full certification must be obtained to continue employment in a CNA role.
Travel CNAs in Hawaii typically earn between $22.19 and $27.91 per hour, which translates to approximately $44,990 to $58,050 annually. This higher compensation reflects both Hawaii’s overall higher wage standards (with regular CNAs earning an average of $22.19 hourly or $44,990 annually) and the premium pay travel healthcare workers receive. Travel CNAs also often receive additional benefits such as housing stipends, meal allowances, and travel reimbursements that further increase their total compensation package.
Additional CNA Resources
Rewarding Opportunities in Paradise
Explore CNA programs in Hawaii. Learn about training, salary, job demand, and how to start a healthcare career in the Aloha State with real impact.
READ MORE
How to Find the Right CNA Program for You
Learn how to compare CNA programs by cost, schedule, format, and outcomes. Find the best CNA training for your needs with this complete guide.
READ MORE
Explore More CNA Resources
Discover helpful articles about CNA training, certification, skills, and career tips — all in one place.