Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in District of Columbia
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for DC
How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in District of Columbia
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the District of Columbia, individuals must complete a 125-hour state-approved training program, which includes classroom, lab, and clinical hours, or have equivalent nursing education. After training, candidates must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam administered by Credentia. A criminal background check is required for certification and renewal. The District of Columbia offers reciprocity for CNAs certified in other states, provided they meet specific criteria and undergo a background check.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Requirements in District of Columbia
| Detail | District of Columbia |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | District of Columbia Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 125-hour state-approved training program (65 classroom, 20 lab, 40 clinical) or equivalent nursing education |
| Experience Required | 8.0 hours |
| Exam | National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) via Credentia ($165) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 24.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age 18. A criminal background check is required for initial certification and renewal. Renewal also requires proof of at least 8 hours of compensated nursing-related service within the past 24 months. 2 of the 24 CE hours must be in cultural competency or specialized clinical training focusing on LGBTQ+ patients, and 10% must be in public health priorities. |
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in District of Columbia
The median certified nursing assistant salary in District of Columbia is $46,860 per year, which is 18.5% above the national median of $39,530.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $39,120 |
| 25th | $43,120 |
| 50th (median) | $46,860 |
| 75th | $50,360 |
| 90th (experienced) | $56,160 |
District of Columbia employs approximately 2,550 certified nursing assistants.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in District of Columbia Worth It?
Factors to consider: District of Columbia's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, and your personal career goals.