CNA Classes in Oregon

Before enrolling in a CNA program in Oregon, you must meet several prerequisites:

• Must be at least 16 years old (though many employers prefer applicants 18+)
• 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 (required by some programs)

The background check is particularly important as certain criminal convictions may disqualify you from working with vulnerable populations. Contact the Oregon State Board of Nursing for specific information about disqualifying offenses and potential waivers.

Oregon has established training standards for nursing assistant programs:

• Total training hours required vary by certification level:
  • CNA1 programs typically require 80-150 hours
  • CNA2 programs require additional specialized training beyond CNA1
• Training must include both classroom instruction and supervised clinical practice
• 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 Oregon State Board of Nursing. Remember that after July 1, 2025, Oregon will transition to a single CNA designation, which may affect training requirements.

Selecting a quality training program approved by the Oregon State 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 Oregon State Board of Nursing through their website.

Program costs vary by provider but typically include:

• Tuition
• Textbooks and study materials
• Background check fees
• Uniform costs
• Medical requirements like TB tests

Financial assistance options may 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 competency examination administered by D&SDT-Headmaster:

• The exam consists of two parts:
  • Knowledge Exam: 80 questions with a 90-minute time limit
  • Skills Test: Demonstration of nursing assistant skills
• You must achieve a 73% passing score on the Knowledge Exam
• All Oregon testing sites use electronic TMU© testing with internet-connected computers
• You must register through the OSBN Nurse Portal at boardsofnursing.org
• The name on your application must match the two forms of identification you’ll present at the exam site

For candidates with disabilities, accommodations are available upon request. The Oregon State Board of Nursing must approve these accommodations before the examination. Request forms for ADA accommodations are available on the OSBN website.

When preparing for the exam, remember that you cannot ask questions about the content during the knowledge test. Scratch paper will be provided, but you must present photo ID when entering the testing room.

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

• After passing your exam and meeting all requirements, you’ll be listed in the Oregon 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 Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN) manages the state’s Nurse Aide Registry, which is your primary resource for certification matters in Oregon.

Contact Information:

• Website: https://www.oregon.gov/osbn/pages/index.aspx 
• Phone: (971) 673-0685
• 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 nursing assistants

To check your certification status, visit the Oregon State Board of Nursing License Verification portal: https://osbn.boardsofnursing.org/licenselookup 

Maintaining your CNA certification in Oregon 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 nursing assistant within the 24-month certification period
• Continuing education: No formal continuing education requirements for basic renewal
• Renewal process:
  • Submit renewal application online through the Oregon State Board of Nursing portal
  • Provide verification of employment
  • Pay the renewal fee ($60)
• 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://osbn.boardsofnursing.org/orbn

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

• Verify current certification in your original state
• Complete the Oregon CNA by Endorsement 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
  • Criminal background check results
  • Pay the application fee ($60)
• Submit your application and documents to the Oregon State Board of Nursing

Allow 3-4 weeks for processing. Oregon may require additional training if your original program doesn’t meet state standards.

For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://www.oregon.gov/osbn/Documents/Resource_CNAEndorseAppDirections.pdf 

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

Education Providers:

• Oregon Community College System
  • Website: https://www.oregon.gov/highered/institutions-programs/ccwd/Pages/community-colleges.aspx
  • Offers healthcare-related courses at campuses throughout the state
• Oregon Health Care Association
  • Website: https://www.ohca.com/events/calendar/ 
  • Provides workshops and online courses specifically for CNAs
• Oregon Nurses Association
  • Website: https://www.oregonrn.org/
  • Offers continuing education opportunities for all nursing professionals
• American Red Cross of Oregon
  • Website: https://www.redcross.org/local/oregon.html
  • Provides healthcare training and certification courses