CNA Classes in Washington D.C.
Start your CNA career in Washington D.C. with confidence. Explore accredited CNA classes, certification requirements, and career opportunities across the state.
Training Hours
State-approved CNA programs require a minimum of 75 hours to qualify for certification.
Program Costs
CNA Training costs range from free to $1,000+, with financial aid or employer support at some schools.
CNA Salary
Certified Nursing Assistants in Washington D.C. earn an average annual salary of $47,860 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 in Washington D.C.?
Washington D.C. presents a thriving landscape for Certified Nursing Assistant careers in 2025. With the district’s average CNA salary reaching $47,860 annually ($22.22 hourly), well above the national average, qualified caregivers are financially rewarded for their essential work. The nation’s capital boasts a robust healthcare infrastructure with world-class facilities like MedStar Washington Hospital Center and George Washington University Hospital constantly seeking skilled CNAs. Whether you’re starting your healthcare journey or seeking a meaningful career change, D.C. offers accessible training programs, strong advancement pathways, and the chance to make a real difference in a community with unique healthcare needs.
Find & Compare CNA Classes in Washington D.C.
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 Washington D.C. 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.
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 If you notice outdated or incorrect information, please contact us so we can make updates.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 in Washington D.C.
Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Washington D.C. opens the door to a rewarding healthcare career with strong job stability. The D.C. Department of Health oversees the certification process, which includes completing an approved training program, passing a competency exam, and registering with the district.
D.C. CNA programs require a minimum of 75 hours of training, making them more accessible than programs in many other states. Most can be completed in about 2 months, with costs typically ranging from $1,200 to $3,000 depending on the provider. By understanding the requirements and following the steps below, you’ll be well-positioned to launch your CNA career in the nation’s capital.
1) Eligibility Requirements for CNA Training in Washington D.C.
Before enrolling in a CNA program in Washington D.C., you must satisfy several prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must have a high school diploma or GED (though some programs may accept applicants without this)
- Must pass a criminal background check
- Must provide proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency
- Must complete required health screenings:
- Physical examination confirming ability to perform essential job functions
- Up-to-date immunizations
- Additional medical requirements as specified by individual programs
Foreign-trained applicants may need to provide translated documents and demonstrate English proficiency. Criminal background checks are standard requirements, as CNAs work with vulnerable populations in healthcare settings.
2) CNA Training Hour Requirements in Washington D.C.
Washington D.C. has specific requirements for CNA training programs to ensure all nursing assistants receive standardized education:
- Total of 75 training hours required (federal minimum), consisting of:
- Classroom instruction covering theoretical knowledge
- At least 16 hours of supervised clinical training in healthcare settings
- Core curriculum topics include:
- Basic nursing skills
- Infection control procedures
- Patient rights and dignity
- Effective communication techniques
- Personal care skills
- Safety protocols
- Vital signs monitoring and recording
Most programs take approximately 2 months 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 CNA Training Program in Washington D.C.
Finding an approved CNA training program is an essential step in your certification journey:
- Training is offered through various approved providers:
- Community colleges
- Vocational schools
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Long-term care facilities
- Adult education centers
To verify a program’s approval status, check the D.C. Department of Health website for their directory of approved training programs.
Program costs vary by provider but typically include:
- Tuition (ranging from $1,200-$3,000)
- Textbooks and study materials
- Background check fees
- Uniform costs
- CPR certification
- Medical requirements like physical exams and vaccinations
Financial assistance options include:
- Scholarships through individual schools
- Payment plans offered by many training providers
- Employer-sponsored training in exchange for employment commitments
- Federal financial aid for programs that are part of larger institutions
4) Pass the CNA Certification Exam in Washington D.C.
After completing your training, you must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) examination administered by Credentia:
- The exam consists of two parts:
- Written test: Multiple-choice questions testing theoretical knowledge
- Skills evaluation: Demonstration of nursing assistant tasks with an evaluator
- You have up to 2 years from the completion of your training program to pass the exam
- If you fail to pass within this timeframe, you may need to retake your training
On exam day, bring government-issued photo identification and dress appropriately. Arrive early to complete registration procedures and prepare mentally for both portions of the exam.
Common skills tested include handwashing, taking vital signs, transferring patients, and other fundamental CNA duties. Practice these skills thoroughly before your exam date.
5) Register with the Washington D.C. CNA Registry
The final step is being listed on the Washington D.C. Nurse Aide Registry:
- After passing your exam, you are automatically registered with the D.C. Nurse Aide Registry maintained by Credentia under contract with the Department of Health
- 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
Ready to Start CNA Training in Washington D.C.?
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 Washington D.C. CNA Certification Contacts & Guidelines
Navigating your CNA career in the nation’s capital requires access to reliable information and support. This comprehensive resource hub connects you with essential D.C.-specific tools to help maintain your certification, advance your skills, and find employment opportunities in the District’s thriving healthcare community. Whether you’re new to the profession or looking to grow your career, these resources will help you succeed as a CNA in Washington D.C.
D.C. Nurse Aide Registry
The District of Columbia Board of Nursing manages the Nurse Aide Registry, which is your primary resource for CNA certification matters in Washington D.C.
Contact Information:
- Website: https://dchealth.dc.gov/service/health-professionals
- Phone: (877) 672-2174
- 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 D.C. Department of Health License Verification portal: https://doh.force.com/ver/s/
Certification Renewal in Washington D.C.
Maintaining your CNA certification in Washington D.C. 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 nurse aide within the 24-month certification period
- Continuing education: 24 hours of continuing education within the 2-year certification period
- Renewal process:
- Submit renewal application online through the D.C. Department of Health portal
- Provide verification of employment
- Submit proof of completed continuing education hours
- Pay the renewal fee ($65)
- 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://dchealth.dc.gov/node/149382
CNA Reciprocity in Washington D.C.
If you’re a CNA certified in another state and wish to work in Washington D.C., follow these steps for reciprocity:
- Verify current certification in your original state
- Complete the D.C. Application for Certification by Endorsement
- 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
- Criminal background check results
- Pay the application fee ($65)
- Mail your application and documents to the D.C. Board of Nursing
Allow 4-6 weeks for processing. D.C. may require additional training if your original program doesn’t meet district standards.For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://dchealth.dc.gov/service/health-professionals
Continuing Education Opportunities
Washington D.C. requires 24 hours of continuing education for CNA renewal. Here are resources to help you meet these requirements:
Education Providers:
- University of the District of Columbia Community College
- Website: https://www.udc.edu/cc/
- Offers healthcare-related courses and continuing education
- D.C. Health Care Association
- Website: https://www.dchca.org/
- Offers continuing education opportunities for long-term care staff
- American Red Cross of the National Capital & Greater Chesapeake Region
- Website: https://www.redcross.org/local/dc-va-md-de.html
- Provides healthcare training and certification courses
The healthcare industry in the District continues to expand, with increasing demand for qualified CNAs, particularly in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health settings.
By utilizing these resources and staying informed about Washington D.C.’s CNA requirements, you’ll be well-equipped to thrive in your healthcare career. Remember to regularly check the D.C. Department of Health website for the most up-to-date information and announcements regarding your CNA certification.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a CNA in Washington D.C.
Certain criminal convictions can disqualify you from becoming a CNA in Washington DC, particularly those involving abuse, neglect, or violence against vulnerable individuals. The District conducts mandatory background checks through both local and federal databases, and convictions for patient abuse, theft, violent crimes, or drug-related offenses may prevent certification. Additionally, providing false information on your application, failing to complete the required training hours, or not passing both the written and skills portions of the competency evaluation will result in disqualification.
You cannot complete your entire CNA training online in Washington DC. While some programs may offer theoretical portions through distance learning, DC requires hands-on clinical training that must be completed in-person at approved healthcare facilities. This practical component is essential for developing proper patient care techniques and skills that cannot be learned virtually. Any program advertising fully online CNA certification in DC would not meet the District’s requirements for licensure.
No, you cannot take the CNA test without completing approved training in Washington DC. The District 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 DC regulations. Even healthcare professionals with related experience must complete the formal CNA training program to qualify for the certification examination.
You cannot legally work as a CNA in Washington DC without certification. District regulations require all nursing assistants to be certified before performing CNA duties in any healthcare facility. DC does allow students enrolled in approved training programs to work in limited capacities as “nurse aide trainees” for up to 120 days while completing their education and certification process. After this period, full certification must be obtained to continue employment in a CNA role.
Having a felony conviction doesn’t automatically disqualify you from becoming a CNA in Washington DC, as each case is evaluated individually. The DC Board of Nursing reviews the nature of the offense, how long ago it occurred, your rehabilitation efforts, and whether the crime relates to patient safety or care duties. Felonies involving abuse, violence, theft, or drug offenses are more likely to result in disqualification, while non-violent felonies unrelated to healthcare may be considered with sufficient evidence of rehabilitation.
Travel CNAs in the Washington DC area typically earn between $22.22 and $28.17 per hour, which translates to approximately $47,860 to $58,590 annually. This higher compensation reflects the premium pay travel healthcare workers receive compared to permanent staff, with DC offering one of the highest CNA wage rates in the country. Travel CNAs also often receive additional benefits such as housing stipends, meal allowances, and travel reimbursements that further increase their total compensation package.
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