CNA Classes in North Carolina

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

• Must be at least 16 years old (though many employers prefer 18+)
• No specific educational requirements mandated by state regulations
• Must pass a criminal background check
• Must complete required health screenings:
  • Negative tuberculosis (TB) test
  • Up-to-date immunizations
  • Physical examination confirming ability to perform essential job functions
• Must be able to read, write, and speak English effectively

North Carolina offers flexibility in its entry requirements, making this career path accessible to many individuals. The background check is particularly important as it helps ensure patient safety, with certain convictions potentially disqualifying candidates from certification.

North Carolina follows federal minimum standards for CNA education:

• Total of 75 training hours required:
  • Classroom instruction covering theoretical knowledge
  • Clinical training in healthcare settings
• Core curriculum topics include:
  • Basic nursing skills
  • Infection control procedures
  • Patient rights and dignity
  • Communication techniques
  • Personal care skills
  • Safety protocols
  • Vital signs monitoring

All programs must be approved by the North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation. Programs typically take 4-8 weeks to complete, with some accelerated options available. While theoretical portions may be available in hybrid formats, all clinical hours must be completed in-person at approved healthcare facilities.

Selecting a quality training program 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
  • American Red Cross

To verify a program’s approval status, check the NCNAR (North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry) website for their directory of approved training programs.

Program costs vary by provider but typically include:

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

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

After completing your training, you must pass the North Carolina Nurse Aide I competency examination:

• The exam consists of two parts:
  • Written test: Multiple-choice questions testing theoretical knowledge
  • Skills evaluation: Demonstration of nursing assistant skills
• Testing is administered by Pearson VUE
• You must complete both parts of the exam within 2 years of finishing your training
• If you fail either section three times, you must retake the entire training program

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 proper identification to the testing center and wear appropriate clothing. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time to complete check-in procedures.

The final step in becoming a certified nursing assistant in North Carolina:

• After passing your exam, you are automatically listed on the North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry
• Your certification becomes active once you’re listed in the registry
• You can verify your listing by contacting the registry or checking their online portal

The North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry, managed by the North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR), is your primary resource for certification matters in the state.

Contact Information:

• Website: https://ncnar.ncdhhs.gov/ncna.html 
• Phone: (919) 855-3969
• 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 North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry Search portal: https://ncnar.ncdhhs.gov/ncna.html

Maintaining your CNA certification in North Carolina 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 paid 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 North Carolina 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://ncnar.ncdhhs.gov/ncna.html#renewal 

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

• Verify current certification in your original state
• Complete the North Carolina 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 North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry

Allow 3-4 weeks for processing. North Carolina does not require additional skills testing for reciprocity applicants with valid certifications.

For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://ncnar.ncdhhs.gov/ncna.html#oosaide 

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

Education Providers:

• North Carolina Community College System
  • Website: https://www.nccommunitycolleges.edu/
  • Offers healthcare-related courses at campuses throughout the state
• North Carolina Health Care Facilities Association
  • Website: https://www.nchcfa.org/education-events/
  • Provides workshops and online courses specifically for CNAs
• North Carolina Nurses Association
  • Website: https://www.nchcfa.org/events/calendar/ 
  • Offers continuing education opportunities for all nursing professionals
• American Red Cross of North Carolina
  • Website: https://www.redcross.org/local/north-carolina.html
  • Provides healthcare training and certification courses