Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Rhode Island
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for RI
How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Rhode Island
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Rhode Island, you must complete a state-approved training program of 120 hours, including 80 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical training. After completing the program, you need to pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, administered by Credentia, which costs $165. The Rhode Island Department of Health is the licensing body, and there is a $35 application fee. Rhode Island offers reciprocity for CNAs licensed in other states, requiring an application, fee, and verification of an active, in-good-standing license.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Requirements in Rhode Island
| Detail | Rhode Island |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Rhode Island Department of Health |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 120 hours, including 80 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical training in a state-approved program. |
| Experience Required | 40.0 hours |
| Exam | National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) via Credentia ($165) |
| Application Fee | $35 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Minimum age not specified, but most programs require 18. Requires a criminal background check (BCI from RI Attorney General's Office) issued within 4 months of application. Renewal requires having worked for pay as a CNA for at least 8 hours in the past 24 months. |
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Rhode Island
The median certified nursing assistant salary in Rhode Island is $44,160 per year, which is 11.7% above the national median of $39,530.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $38,190 |
| 25th | $39,070 |
| 50th (median) | $44,160 |
| 75th | $46,790 |
| 90th (experienced) | $49,950 |
Rhode Island employs approximately 8,450 certified nursing assistants.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Rhode Island Worth It?
Factors to consider: Rhode Island's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, and your personal career goals.