Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Georgia
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for GA
How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Georgia
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Georgia, you must complete an 85-hour state-approved training program, which includes at least 24 hours of clinical experience. After training, you need to pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, administered by Credentia, which costs $130. The Georgia Nurse Aide Registry, managed by Alliant Health Solutions, oversees certification and renewal. Renewal is required every two years and necessitates proof of at least 8 hours of paid CNA work under nurse supervision within that 24-month period. Georgia also offers reciprocity for out-of-state CNAs who meet specific criteria.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Requirements in Georgia
| Detail | Georgia |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Georgia Nurse Aide Registry (managed by Alliant Health Solutions, contracted by the Georgia Department of Community Health) |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 85-hour state-approved training program (at least 24 hours of clinical experience) |
| Experience Required | 8.0 hours |
| Exam | National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) via Credentia ($130) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Renewal requires having worked for pay as a CNA for at least 8 hours in the past 24 months under the supervision of a licensed nurse. A criminal background check is required for employment in licensed facilities, and often for clinical rotations during training. There is no minimum age to become a CNA, nor is a high school diploma or GED strictly required for certification, though some training programs may require it. If certification expires for three or more years, retraining and retesting are required. |
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Georgia
The median certified nursing assistant salary in Georgia is $36,570 per year, which is 7.5% below the national median of $39,530.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $28,470 |
| 25th | $32,290 |
| 50th (median) | $36,570 |
| 75th | $41,050 |
| 90th (experienced) | $46,190 |
Georgia employs approximately 42,460 certified nursing assistants.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Georgia Worth It?
Factors to consider: Georgia's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, and your personal career goals.