Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Alabama
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AL
How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Alabama
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Alabama, individuals must complete a state-approved training program of at least 75 hours, including 16 hours of clinical training. After completing the program, candidates must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, administered by Credentia, which costs $135. The Alabama Department of Public Health maintains the Nurse Aide Registry, and a criminal background check is required. For reciprocity, out-of-state CNAs must be hired by an Alabama nursing facility, which then facilitates their placement on the state's registry.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Requirements in Alabama
| Detail | Alabama |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Alabama Department of Public Health |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 75-hour state-approved training program |
| Experience Required | 16.0 hours |
| Exam | National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) via Credentia ($135) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 48.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | A criminal background check is required. Renewal requires 48 hours of in-service education or continuing education every two years. Candidates must pass the exam within 3 attempts and 24 months of completing the training program, or retraining is required. High school diploma or GED is required to enroll in a CNA program. CPR certification, current immunizations, TB skin test, and Hepatitis B series are recommended before clinical training. |
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Alabama
The median certified nursing assistant salary in Alabama is $32,470 per year, which is 17.9% below the national median of $39,530.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $25,890 |
| 25th | $29,110 |
| 50th (median) | $32,470 |
| 75th | $35,930 |
| 90th (experienced) | $38,770 |
Alabama employs approximately 24,560 certified nursing assistants.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Alabama Worth It?
Factors to consider: Alabama's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, and your personal career goals.