Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Pennsylvania
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for PA
How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Pennsylvania
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Pennsylvania, individuals must complete a state-approved training program of at least 80 hours, which includes both classroom instruction and supervised clinical practice. After completing the training, candidates must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam administered by Credentia. Pennsylvania offers reciprocity for CNAs certified in other states, allowing them to apply to the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry without additional testing.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Requirements in Pennsylvania
| Detail | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Pennsylvania Department of Health |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | State-approved training program of at least 80 hours (some programs are 120 hours or more), including classroom instruction and 37.5 hours of supervised clinical practice. |
| Experience Required | 37.5 hours |
| Exam | National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) via Credentia ($121) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 12.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age of 16 or 17 (depending on the program). A criminal background check is required. Must be in good physical health and have up-to-date immunizations. Renewal requires having worked for pay as a CNA for at least 8 hours in the past 24 months and completing 12 hours of in-service training. High school diploma or GED is generally required by training programs and employers. |
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Pennsylvania
The median certified nursing assistant salary in Pennsylvania is $41,110 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $39,530.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $36,270 |
| 25th | $37,950 |
| 50th (median) | $41,110 |
| 75th | $45,070 |
| 90th (experienced) | $48,100 |
Pennsylvania employs approximately 65,410 certified nursing assistants.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Pennsylvania Worth It?
Factors to consider: Pennsylvania's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, and your personal career goals.