CNA Classes in New Hampshire
Start your CNA (LNA) career in New Hampshire with confidence. Explore accredited CNA classes, certification requirements, and career opportunities across the state.
Training Hours
State-approved CNA programs require a minimum of 90 hours to qualify for certification.
Program Costs
CNA Training costs range from free to $2,200+, with financial aid or employer support at some schools.
CNA Salary
CNAs in New Hampshire earn an average annual salary of $45,090 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 (LNA) in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire’s healthcare sector is experiencing critical staffing shortages, creating abundant opportunities for Licensed Nursing Assistants (LNAs) – what other states call CNAs. With over 446 active job openings statewide and healthcare vacancy rates around 30%, qualified caregivers are urgently needed across nursing homes, hospitals, and home health agencies. New Hampshire has the second-oldest population in the United States, with one in five residents over age 60 and projections showing a 243% increase in residents age 85+ by 2040. This demographic shift drives consistent demand for compassionate care professionals throughout the Granite State.
Find & Compare CNA (LNA) Classes in New Hampshire
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 New Hampshire 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lakes Region Community College | (603) 524-3207 | 379 Belmont Rd | Laconia | NH | 03246 | $1,407 | Contact for Detail | View Details |
| River Valley Community College | (603) 542-7744 | 1 College Place | Claremont | NH | 03743 | $1,900 | 7 Weeks | View Details |
| River Valley Community College - Keene Academic Center | (603) 542-7744 | 88 Winchester Street | Keene | NH | 03431 | $1,900 | 7 Weeks | View Details |
| River Valley Community College - Lebanon Academic Center | (603) 542-7744 | 15 Hanover Street | Lebanon | NH | 03766 | $1,900 | 7 Weeks | View Details |
| Manchester Community College | (603) 206-8000 | 1066 Front Street | Manchester | NH | 03102 | $2,200 | 6 Weeks | 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 (LNA) in New Hampshire
Starting your journey as a Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) in New Hampshire opens doors to a rewarding healthcare career with strong job stability. In New Hampshire, Certified Nursing Assistants are officially called Licensed Nursing Assistants, with the certification process managed by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.
New Hampshire LNA programs require between 90-106 hours of training, with costs typically ranging from $1,200 to $2,500 depending on the provider. Most programs can be completed in 4-12 weeks, with LNAs in New Hampshire earning an average of $21.13 per hour or approximately $45,090 annually—among the highest in the nation. Follow these steps to begin your journey as a New Hampshire LNA.
1) Eligibility Requirements for LNA Training in New Hampshire
Before enrolling in an LNA program in New Hampshire, you must meet several prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years old for most programs
- Must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent
- Must pass a criminal background check
- Cannot have been convicted of specific crimes (unless annulled by court), including:
- Murder or manslaughter
- Robbery
- Felonious theft
- Felonious assault
- Sexual crimes involving children
- Kidnapping
- Endangering the welfare of a child or incompetent person
- Must complete required health screenings:
- Physical examination
- Negative tuberculosis (TB) test
- Required immunizations for clinical placement:
- Measles (Rubeola) – 2 vaccines or proof of immunity
- Mumps – 2 vaccines or proof of immunity
- Rubella – 2 vaccines or proof of immunity
- Varicella (chicken pox) – 2 vaccines or proof of immunity
- Hepatitis B – 2 vaccines or proof of immunity
- Tetanus – vaccine in last 10 years with Tdap booster
- COVID-19 vaccination (required for hospital clinical placements)
- Must provide proof of current health insurance
- Must be able to read, comprehend, write, and communicate in English
2) LNA Training Hour Requirements in New Hampshire
New Hampshire has specific training requirements for all nursing assistant programs:
- Total training hours range from 90-106 hours, depending on the program:
- 40-46 hours of classroom theory and laboratory practice
- 45-60 hours of supervised clinical training
- Before any direct patient care, students must complete 16 hours of preliminary instruction covering:
- Orientation to the nursing assistant role
- Holistic approach to care throughout the lifespan
- Communication skills
- Safety and emergency procedures (including Heimlich Maneuver)
- Protection of patient rights, dignity, and confidentiality
- Core curriculum content includes:
- Influences related to aging and life cycle (pathological, physical, psychological, social, cultural, religious)
- End-of-life care
- Legal, ethical, and moral issues in healthcare
- Personal care skills (hygiene, mobility, nutrition, elimination)
- Safety procedures
- Emotional support techniques
Most programs take between 4 and 12 weeks to complete, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. While theoretical portions may be available in hybrid formats, all clinical hours must be completed in-person at approved healthcare facilities.
3) Complete an Accredited LNA Training Program
Selecting a quality training program approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing will help set you up for success:
- Programs are available through various approved providers:
- Community colleges
- Technical schools
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Long-term care facilities
To verify a program’s approval status, check with the New Hampshire Board of Nursing for their directory of approved training programs.
Program costs vary by provider but typically include:
- Tuition (ranging from $1,200-$2,500)
- Textbooks and study materials
- Background check fees
- Uniform costs
- Medical requirements like TB tests and immunizations
Financial assistance options include:
- Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) grants
- Employer-sponsored training (some facilities offer free training with employment commitment)
- Payment plans offered by many training providers
- Scholarships through individual schools and healthcare organizations
4) Pass the LNA Certification Exam in New Hampshire
After completing your training, you must pass the competency examination administered by Excel Testing:
- The exam consists of two parts:
- Written test: 70 multiple-choice questions
- Skills evaluation: Demonstration of nursing assistant skills
- Minimum score of 70% required on the written portion
- Must successfully demonstrate required clinical skills
- If unsuccessful, you can retake the exam up to two times before needing to repeat training
When preparing for your exam, focus on mastering both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills taught in your program. Many students find the hands-on skills portion more challenging, so practice these techniques thoroughly before your test date.
Bring your identification documents and wear appropriate attire for the skills portion. Plan to arrive with plenty of time to spare, as tardiness may result in rescheduling and additional fees.
5) Register with the New Hampshire Nurse Aide Registr
The final step in becoming a licensed nursing assistant in New Hampshire:
- After passing the exam, you must complete:
- Criminal background check
- Fingerprinting
- Application submission to New Hampshire Board of Nursing through their online portal
- Create an account on the Board of Nursing website to apply for initial licensure
- Allow processing time of approximately 3 working days after submission
To verify your LNA status:
- Visit the New Hampshire Online Licensing page
- Select “Nursing Assistants” from Profession dropdown
- Select “Licensed Nursing Assistant” from License Type dropdown
- Enter name and/or license number
- Click “Search”
With your New Hampshire LNA certification, you’ll be qualified to work in various healthcare settings across the state, with excellent earning potential as New Hampshire ranks among the highest-paying states for nursing assistants with an average annual salary of $45,090.
Ready to Start CNA (LNA) Training in New Hampshire?
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 New Hampshire CNA (LNA) Certification Contacts & Guidelines
New Hampshire offers exceptional opportunities for CNAs with competitive wages averaging $22.00 per hour and a growing elderly population that requires quality healthcare services. This comprehensive resource hub connects you with essential New Hampshire-specific tools to help maintain your certification, find employment, and advance your career in the Granite State’s healthcare landscape where CNAs are in high demand.
New Hampshire Nurse Aide Registry
The New Hampshire Board of Nursing manages the state’s Nurse Aide Registry, which is your primary resource for certification matters in New Hampshire.
Contact Information:
- Website: https://www.oplc.nh.gov/applications-lna
- Phone: (603) 271-2323
- 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 New Hampshire Nurse Aide Registry Search portal: https://forms.nh.gov/licenseverification/
Certification Renewal in New Hampshire
Maintaining your CNA certification in New Hampshire 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 Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) within the 24-month certification period
- Continuing education: No formal continuing education requirements for basic renewal
- Renewal process:
- Submit renewal application through the New Hampshire Board of Nursing portal
- Provide verification of employment
- Pay the renewal fee ($35)
- 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 information and verification forms, visit: https://www.oplc.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt441/files/inline-documents/renewal-checklist-all-license-types_0.pdf
CNA Reciprocity in New Hampshire
If you’re a CNA certified in another state and wish to work in New Hampshire, follow these steps for reciprocity:
- Verify current certification in your original state
- Complete the New Hampshire Nurse Aide Registry Reciprocity 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
- Social Security card
- Mail your application and documents to the New Hampshire Board of Nursing
Allow 2-4 weeks for processing. New Hampshire does not require additional skills testing for reciprocity applicants with valid certifications.For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://www.oplc.nh.gov/new-changes-reciprocity-new-hampshire
Continuing Education Opportunities
While New Hampshire doesn’t mandate continuing education for CNA renewal, ongoing learning can enhance your skills and career prospects:
Education Providers:
- Community College System of New Hampshire
- Website: https://www.ccsnh.edu/
- Offers healthcare-related courses at campuses throughout the state
- New Hampshire Health Care Association
- Website: https://www.nhhca.org/ill_calendar/education-committee/
- Provides workshops and online courses specifically for CNAs
- New Hampshire Nurses Association
- Website: https://nhnurses.nursingnetwork.com/
- Offers continuing education opportunities for all nursing professionals
- American Red Cross of New Hampshire
- Website: https://www.redcross.org/local/new-hampshire.html
- Provides healthcare training and certification courses
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a CNA (LNA) in New Hampshire
There is no functional difference between a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) and an LNA (Licensed Nursing Assistant) in New Hampshire, as they refer to the same healthcare role with different terminology. New Hampshire specifically uses the term “LNA” for individuals who have completed the required training program and passed the state competency evaluation. Both titles indicate a healthcare worker qualified to provide basic patient care under the supervision of licensed nursing staff, with identical scope of practice, training requirements, and job responsibilities.
No, you cannot take the CNA test without completing approved training in New Hampshire. 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 New Hampshire regulations. Even healthcare professionals with related experience must complete the formal CNA training program to qualify for the certification examination.
You cannot complete your entire CNA training online in New Hampshire. While some programs may offer theoretical portions through distance learning, New Hampshire 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, including substantial supervised clinical experience, which cannot be fulfilled virtually. Any program advertising fully online CNA certification in New Hampshire would not meet state requirements for licensure.
A New Hampshire CNA license (officially called LNA) remains valid for two years from the date of issuance. To maintain active status, you must work at least 8 hours as a nursing assistant during the 24-month period and complete any required continuing education. If your certification expires, you’ll need to either retake both the written and skills exams or complete a state-approved reactivation program to reinstate your license, depending on how long it has been inactive.
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