Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Tennessee
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TN
How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Tennessee
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Tennessee, individuals must complete a state-approved training program of at least 75 hours, including 16 hours of clinical experience. After training, candidates must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam. The licensing body is the Tennessee Department of Health, which maintains the Nurse Aide Registry. Reciprocity is generally accepted from other states with a $20 application fee, with the exception of Florida, which requires retraining and retesting.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Requirements in Tennessee
| Detail | Tennessee |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Tennessee Department of Health |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 75-hour state-approved training program |
| Experience Required | 16.0 hours |
| Exam | National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam ($90) |
| Application Fee | $20 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 8.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age is typically 16 or 17, depending on the training institution. A criminal background check, physical exam, negative TB test, and vaccinations are required. CPR certification is also generally required before clinical training. Renewal requires proof of having worked for at least 8 hours for pay as a CNA in a licensed healthcare facility within the past 24 months. Employment in private duty services, companion services, and physician's offices are not accepted for renewal. |
Source: Tennessee Department of Health
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Tennessee
The median certified nursing assistant salary in Tennessee is $36,750 per year, which is 7.0% below the national median of $39,530.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $30,080 |
| 25th | $33,630 |
| 50th (median) | $36,750 |
| 75th | $39,160 |
| 90th (experienced) | $44,500 |
Tennessee employs approximately 23,030 certified nursing assistants.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Tennessee Worth It?
Factors to consider: Tennessee's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, and your personal career goals.