If you’re pursuing a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Florida, you need to know exactly what the state requires before you can start working. Florida has specific training, testing, and registry requirements that differ from other states, and getting them wrong can delay your career by weeks or months.
This guide covers everything you need to become a CNA in Florida in 2026 — training hours, the competency exam, state registry, renewal requirements, reciprocity for out-of-state CNAs, and what you can expect to earn.
Training requirements
State requires a minimum of 120 hours of training, including 80 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of supervised clinical practice.
CNA training programs in Florida are offered through community colleges, vocational schools, healthcare facilities, and the American Red Cross. When choosing a program, make sure it is state-approved — only graduates of approved programs are eligible to take the competency evaluation.
Competency exam
Competency evaluation administered by Prometric, consisting of a written (or oral) knowledge test and a clinical skills demonstration.
You must pass both portions of the exam to be placed on the Florida Nurse Aide Registry. If you fail, most states allow retakes, but check with the Florida Department of Health CNA Registry for Florida’s specific retake policy.
State registry
Once you pass the competency evaluation, your name is placed on the Florida Department of Health CNA Registry. Employers are required to verify your certification through this registry before hiring you.
You can verify your certification status or find more information at: Florida Department of Health CNA Registry.
Florida note: Florida's large senior population creates high demand for CNAs, especially in assisted living and long-term care facilities.
Average salary in Florida
CNAs in Florida typically earn $32,000-$38,000 per year. Pay varies by setting, experience, shift differentials, and geographic location within the state.
Top employers in Florida include AdventHealth, HCA Florida Healthcare, Baptist Health, Baycare Health System, skilled nursing facilities statewide.
Renewal requirements
Certification is valid for 2 years. Must complete 24 hours of in-service training (12 hours each year) to renew.
Reciprocity (transferring from another state)
Florida accepts out-of-state CNA certifications through endorsement. Must submit proof of training, pass a background screening, and have an active certification in good standing.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a CNA in Florida?
CNA training programs in Florida typically take 4-12 weeks to complete. State requires a minimum of 120 hours of training, including 80 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of supervised clinical practice. After completing your training, you must pass the competency evaluation to be placed on the state registry.
How much do CNAs make in Florida?
CNAs in Florida typically earn $32,000-$38,000 per year. Pay varies by setting (hospitals generally pay more than skilled nursing facilities), shift differentials, and geographic location within the state. Major employers include AdventHealth, HCA Florida Healthcare, Baptist Health, Baycare Health System, skilled nursing facilities statewide.
Can I transfer my CNA certification to Florida from another state?
Florida accepts out-of-state CNA certifications through endorsement. Must submit proof of training, pass a background screening, and have an active certification in good standing. Contact the Florida Department of Health CNA Registry for the most current reciprocity requirements.