Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Texas

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

Median Salary
$36,390
Texas (2024)
National Median
$39,530
All states
Time to Complete
4-8 weeks (training program)
From start to licensed

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

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Texas, individuals must complete a 100-hour state-approved training program, which includes 60 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical training. After completing the training, candidates must pass the Prometric CNA Exam, which costs $125 and includes both a written and skills portion. The licensing body is the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, and there is no application fee. A criminal background check and fingerprinting are mandatory, and while generally applicants must be 18, some programs may accept individuals as young as 16. Texas offers reciprocity for CNAs certified in other states, provided they meet specific criteria and pass a criminal background check.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Requirements in Texas

DetailTexas
Licensing BodyTexas Health and Human Services Commission
State License Required Yes
Education100-hour state-approved training program (60 hours classroom, 40 hours clinical)
Exam Prometric CNA Exam ($125)
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
Continuing Education24.0 hours per cycle
NotesMinimum age is generally 18, though some programs accept 16-year-olds. A criminal background check and fingerprinting are required. Proof of immunization and a valid social security number are also typically needed. Renewal requires 24 hours of in-service education, including training in geriatrics and dementia care, and verification of employment.

Source: Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Texas

The median certified nursing assistant salary in Texas is $36,390 per year, which is 7.9% below the national median of $39,530.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$29,580
25th$33,090
50th (median)$36,390
75th$39,530
90th (experienced)$45,760

Texas employs approximately 87,050 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 Texas Worth It?

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a certified nursing assistant in Texas?
In Texas, becoming a certified nursing assistant requires you to complete the required education (100-hour state-approved training program (60 hours classroom, 40 hours clinical)), and pass the Prometric CNA Exam.
Does Texas require certified nursing assistant licensure?
You cannot practice as a certified nursing assistant in Texas without a state license from Texas Health and Human Services Commission. The required exam is the Prometric CNA Exam.
How much do certified nursing assistants make in Texas?
In Texas, the median pay for certified nursing assistants comes to $36,390/year. This trails the $39,530 national median by 8%. Wages range from $29,580 (10th percentile) up to $45,760 (90th percentile).
How much does it cost to become a certified nursing assistant in Texas?
Between exam fee ($125), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.
How long does it take to become a certified nursing assistant in Texas?
Expect to spend 4-8 weeks (training program) from start to finish in Texas — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.
How many CE hours do certified nursing assistants need in Texas?
Yes — certified nursing assistants in Texas must complete 24.0 CE hours every 2.0 years to stay licensed.

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