Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Ohio

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for OH

Median Salary
$38,570
Ohio (2024)
National Median
$39,530
All states
Time to Complete
3-15 weeks
From start to licensed

How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Ohio

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), also known as a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA), in Ohio, individuals must complete a state-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) of at least 75 hours, including 16 hours of clinical experience. After completing the training, candidates must pass the Ohio Nurse Aide Competency Exam administered by D&S Diversified Technologies (Headmaster). Ohio offers reciprocity for CNAs from other states who hold an active and in-good-standing certification, requiring the submission of a reciprocity form and supporting documentation.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Requirements in Ohio

DetailOhio
Licensing BodyOhio Department of Health
State License Required Yes
Education75-hour state-approved training program
Exam Ohio STNA Exam via D&S Diversified Technologies (Headmaster) ($104)
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
NotesIn Ohio, CNAs are often referred to as State Tested Nursing Assistants (STNA). Minimum age is 16 years old. Renewal requires having worked for pay as a CNA for at least 7.5 consecutive hours or 8 hours total within a 48-hour period in the past 24 months. A high school diploma or GED is often required by training programs, along with a criminal background check and up-to-date immunizations/TB test. The exam cost is $26 for the written knowledge test and $78 for the skills test, totaling $104. An oral knowledge test is $36.

Source: Ohio Department of Health

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Ohio

The median certified nursing assistant salary in Ohio is $38,570 per year, which is 2.4% below the national median of $39,530.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$34,480
25th$36,810
50th (median)$38,570
75th$43,620
90th (experienced)$46,060

Ohio employs approximately 62,360 certified nursing assistants.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Outlook

10-Year Growth
+2.3%
Average
Annual Openings
204.1
Nationwide per year
Total Employment
1,441.5
Nationwide

Is Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Ohio Worth It?

Factors to consider: Ohio's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, and your personal career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get certified as a certified nursing assistant in Ohio?
To become a certified nursing assistant in Ohio, you need to complete the required education (75-hour state-approved training program), and pass the Ohio STNA Exam via D&S Diversified Technologies (Headmaster).
Do I need a license to work as a certified nursing assistant in Ohio?
A state license is required in Ohio. Ohio Department of Health handles certified nursing assistant licensing — the Ohio STNA Exam via D&S Diversified Technologies (Headmaster) is part of the process.
What is the average certified nursing assistant salary in Ohio?
The median certified nursing assistant salary in Ohio is $38,570 per year. That's roughly in line with the $39,530 national median. The range spans from $34,480 at the entry level to $46,060 for top earners.
What's the total cost to get certified nursing assistant certified in Ohio?
Between exam fee ($104), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.
How quickly can I become a certified nursing assistant in Ohio?
Expect to spend 3-15 weeks from start to finish in Ohio — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.

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