Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Iowa
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for IA
How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Iowa
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Iowa, individuals must complete a state-approved 75-hour training program, which includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice. After completing the training, candidates must pass the Iowa Nurse Aide State Exam, consisting of written and skills components. Upon successful completion of the exam, their name is submitted to the Iowa Direct Care Worker Registry, overseen by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing. Iowa offers reciprocity for CNAs certified in other states, requiring an online application and verifiable employment.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Requirements in Iowa
| Detail | Iowa |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | 75-hour state-approved training program |
| Exam | Iowa Nurse Aide State Exam (written and skills components) ($175) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 12.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age is 16 years old. Requires a criminal background check and specific immunizations/waivers (Hepatitis B, COVID, Influenza, TB). Certification does not expire, but standing on the registry expires if no qualifying employment for 24 months. To remain active, CNAs must work at least 8 hours for pay in a nursing or nursing-related role every 24 months. If employed in a certified long-term care facility, 12 hours of in-service training are required annually. |
Source: Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Iowa
The median certified nursing assistant salary in Iowa is $38,630 per year, which is 2.3% below the national median of $39,530.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $35,070 |
| 25th | $36,740 |
| 50th (median) | $38,630 |
| 75th | $44,710 |
| 90th (experienced) | $48,100 |
Iowa employs approximately 22,970 certified nursing assistants.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Iowa Worth It?
Factors to consider: Iowa's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, and your personal career goals.