CNA Classes in New Jersey

Before enrolling in a CNA program in New Jersey, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:

• Provide evidence of “good moral character”
• Comply with Criminal Background Investigation Program requirements (N.J.A.C. 8:43I)
• Pass a mandatory criminal background check
• Meet health screening requirements (specific requirements vary by program)
• Have basic English language proficiency
• Some programs may require a high school diploma or GED

The background check is particularly important as it helps ensure patient safety. While specific disqualifying offenses aren’t detailed in state regulations, healthcare facilities typically screen for violent crimes, abuse, and drug-related convictions.

New Jersey has established training standards that must be met by all nursing assistant programs:

• Total of 90 training hours required:
  • 50 hours of classroom instruction
  • 40 hours of supervised clinical training
• Must complete the Nurse Aide in Long Term Care Facilities Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP)
• Training must be through a program approved by the NJ Department of Health
• Curriculum covers essential nursing assistant skills including:
  • Basic nursing care techniques
  • Infection control procedures
  • Patient rights and dignity
  • Communication techniques
  • Personal care skills
  • Safety protocols
  • Vital signs monitoring

Most programs take between 4 and 6 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.

Selecting a quality CNA training program is key to your success:

• Programs are available through various approved providers:
  • Long-term care facilities where you’re interested in working
  • County vocational schools
  • County community colleges
  • Private training institutes

The Certification Program office can provide a list of approved programs if you’re unsure where to start your search.

Program costs vary by provider but typically include:

• Tuition ($1,000-$2,500)
• Textbooks and study materials
• Background check fees
• Uniform costs
• Medical requirements like TB tests

Financial assistance options may include:

• Federal financial aid for programs at accredited institutions
• Workforce development programs
• Employer-sponsored training (some facilities offer free training with employment commitment)
• Payment plans offered by many training providers

After completing your training, you must pass the competency examination:

• The exam consists of two parts:
  • Department’s written/oral exam
  • Clinical skills competency evaluation
• You must submit a Training Verification Form with your testing application
• You can be employed as a nurse aide for up to 120 days while enrolled in an approved training program
• Must be scheduled to complete the competency evaluation within 120 days of employment
• Can receive a conditional certificate valid for up to 120 days while awaiting criminal background check clearance

For detailed information about the certification process, refer to the document “Navigating the NATCEP” available through the New Jersey Department of Health.

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.

The final step in becoming a certified nursing assistant in New Jersey:

• After successfully completing the competency evaluation, you are listed on the New Jersey Nurse Aide Registry
• You must have valid certification and be “registered in good standing” to work as a nurse aide
• Employers are required to verify your status before hiring

With your New Jersey CNA certification, you’ll be qualified to work in various healthcare settings across the state, with excellent earning potential as New Jersey ranks among the higher-paying states for nursing assistants with an average annual salary of $42,960.

The New Jersey Department of Health manages the state’s Nurse Aide Registry, which is your primary resource for certification matters in New Jersey.

Contact Information:

• Website: https://www.nj.gov/health/healthfacilities/certification-licensing/nurse-aide-pc-assistant/ 
• Phone: (866) 561-5914
• 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 Jersey Nurse Aide Registry Search portal: https://njna.psiexams.com/

Maintaining your CNA certification in New Jersey requires adherence to specific guidelines:

Renewal Requirements:

• Certification validity: 24 months
• Renewal frequency: Every 2 years
• Employment requirement: Must work at least 7 hours as a nurse aide within the 24-month certification period
• Continuing education: No formal continuing education requirements for basic renewal
• Renewal process:
  • Your employer must submit verification of employment through the New Jersey Nurse Aide Registry
  • CNAs are responsible for ensuring their employer submits the verification
  • No renewal fee required
• 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.nj.gov/health/healthfacilities/certification-licensing/nurse-aide-pc-assistant/renew-replace/index.shtml 

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

• Verify current certification in your original state
• Complete the New Jersey 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 Jersey Nurse Aide Registry

Allow 2-4 weeks for processing. New Jersey does not require additional skills testing for reciprocity applicants with valid certifications.

For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://www.nj.gov/health/healthfacilities/certification-licensing/nurse-aide-pc-assistant/apply/index.shtml 

While New Jersey doesn’t mandate continuing education for CNA renewal, ongoing learning can enhance your skills and career prospects:

Education Providers:

• New Jersey Community College Consortium
  • Website: https://www.njccc.org/
  • Offers healthcare-related courses at campuses throughout the state
• Health Care Association of New Jersey
  • Website: https://www.hcanj.org/ 
  • Provides workshops and online courses specifically for CNAs
• New Jersey State Nurses Association
  • Website: https://njsna.org/
  • Offers continuing education opportunities for all nursing professionals
• American Red Cross of New Jersey
  • Website: https://www.redcross.org/local/new-jersey.html
  • Provides healthcare training and certification courses