How to become a CNA in Pennsylvania.
Everything you need to know about becoming a CNA in Pennsylvania. Training requirements, costs, exam details, timeline, and how to land your first role. Updated for 2026.
Step-by-step guide to becoming a CNA in Pennsylvania
Finish a state-approved CNA training program
In Pennsylvania, CNA training has to include a minimum of 120 hours of instruction. Classroom plus hands-on clinical practice. You'll learn vital signs, patient hygiene, infection control, mobility support, and how to communicate with the rest of the nursing team. Programs run at community colleges, vocational schools, nursing homes, and some hospitals. Most programs in Pennsylvania take 8-12 weeks, though part-time options run longer. Some employers, especially SNFs short on staff, offer free or subsidized CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.
Pass the Pennsylvania CNA competency exam
After training, you take the state competency exam to get certified. Two parts: a written (or oral) knowledge test on nursing fundamentals, patient rights, and safety procedures, and a clinical skills test where you demonstrate hands-on skills in front of an evaluator. Most Pennsylvania testing centers run it through Prometric or Pearson VUE. The exam fee is usually $100 to $150. Most candidates pass on the first try, and you can retake it if you don't. Your training program will have study guides and practice tests.
Apply for Pennsylvania CNA certification
Once you pass, your name lands on the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry, which is maintained by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. That registry is your official certification. You'll also clear a background check. Certification renews every 2 years, and renewal requires proof you've worked as a CNA for at least 8 hours during that period.
Find your first CNA role in Pennsylvania
Once you're certified, you can start working. CNAs in Pennsylvania earn an average of $39,530 a year ($31,390 to $50,140 depending on experience and facility type). The highest-paying roles tend to be at hospitals, rehab centers, and specialized SNFs. A lot of Pennsylvania facilities are hiring right now, with sign-on bonuses, shift differentials for nights and weekends, and benefits including health insurance and paid time off.
CNA training costs in Pennsylvania
| Expense | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Training program tuition | $800-$1,500 |
| Textbooks & supplies | $50-$150 |
| Scrubs & equipment | $50-$100 |
| State competency exam | $100-$150 |
| Background check | $30-$50 |
| Total estimated cost | $730-$1,950 |
Employer-sponsored training
A lot of Pennsylvania facilities offer CNA training in exchange for a work commitment. It's one of the cheapest ways to start. Submit your profile through CareGigs and a recruiter can point you toward partner facilities that pay for training.
Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The NLC mostly applies to LPN and RN licenses. CNA certification is state-specific. But working in an NLC state still helps long-term if you plan to advance to LPN or RN, because your multistate license will let you practice across state lines without applying for new ones.
CNA salary in Pennsylvania
CNAs in Pennsylvania earn between $31,390 and $50,140 a year, averaging $39,530 ($19/hour). Pay varies by city, facility type, shift, and experience. Night shift and weekend differentials can add $1 to $3 an hour.
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