CNA Classes in Ohio

While the Ohio Department of Health doesn’t specify detailed eligibility requirements for STNA training, standard prerequisites typically include:

• Must be at least 16 years old (though many employers prefer applicants 18+)
• No specific educational requirements are mandated by state regulations
• Must pass a criminal background check
• Must complete required health screenings (specific requirements vary by program)
• Physical ability to perform essential job functions

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.

Ohio has established training standards that align with federal requirements:

• Total of 75 training hours required (minimum):
  • 59 hours of classroom experience and skills training
  • 16 hours of supervised resident care specifically in a long-term care facility (nursing home only)
• Before any direct patient contact, students must complete training in:
  • Communication and interpersonal skills
  • Infection control
  • Safety and emergency procedures
  • Promoting residents’ independence
  • Residents’ rights

Each NATCEP in Ohio receives at least one inspection/survey during a 24-month cycle to ensure compliance with Chapter 3701-18 of the Ohio Administrative Code. Upon successful completion of a NATCEP, students receive a Certificate of Completion making them eligible to register for the state nurse aide test.

Selecting a quality training program approved by the Ohio Department of Health 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

While specific program costs aren’t detailed in the available data, STNA training typically ranges from $500-$1,500 nationwide. Financial assistance options include:

• Students enrolling as non-degree-seeking students may be eligible for financial assistance that could cover most of the course cost
• Marion Technical College has partnerships with local employers seeking trained nursing assistants who may pay remaining training and testing costs not covered through financial assistance
• Federal financial aid for programs at accredited institutions
• Employer-sponsored training (some facilities offer free training with employment commitment)

After completing your training, you must pass the competency examination administered by D&S Diversified Technologies LLC (www.hdmaster.com):

• The exam consists of two parts:
  • Written test: 79 multiple-choice questions
  • Skills demonstration: Five manual skill tasks (from a possible 25)
• Testing typically takes up to four hours at the test site
• For testing questions, contact D&S at 1-877-851-2355
• Individuals passing the state nurse aide test will have their names added to the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry

A unique benefit for military personnel: Active Military, Retired Military, Veterans, and their spouses are eligible to receive priority of service on testing day. D&S Diversified Technologies is approved through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as an approved testing vendor for the Ohio STNA exam, and veterans may receive reimbursement of fees paid through their GI Bill if funds are available.

The final step in becoming a certified nursing assistant in Ohio:

• After passing your exam, your name is automatically added to the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry
• No additional fees are required beyond testing costs
• The registry serves as the official verification system for STNA certification, training, and employment eligibility

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

Contact Information:

• Website: https://odh.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/odh/know-our-programs/nurse-aide-registry
• Phone: (800) 582-5908
• 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 Ohio Nurse Aide Registry Search portal: https://nurseaideregistry.odh.ohio.gov/Public/PublicNurseAideSearch 

Maintaining your CNA certification in Ohio 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 Ohio 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://odh.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/odh/know-our-programs/nurse-aide-registry/resources/nurseaideregsitryrequirements 

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

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

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

For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://odh.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/odh/know-our-programs/nurse-aide-registry/resources/nusreaiderequestforreciprocity 

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

Education Providers:

• Ohio Technical Centers
  • Website: https://education.ohio.gov/ 
  • Offers healthcare-related courses at campuses throughout the state
• Ohio Health Care Association
  • Website: https://www.efohca.org/ 
  • Provides workshops and online courses specifically for CNAs
• Ohio Nurses Association
  • Website: https://www.ohnurses.org/
  • Offers continuing education opportunities for all nursing professionals
• American Red Cross of Ohio
  • Website: https://www.redcross.org/local/ohio.html
  • Provides healthcare training and certification courses