If you’re pursuing a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Georgia, you need to know exactly what the state requires before you can start working. Georgia 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 Georgia 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 85 hours of training, including at least 24 hours of supervised clinical practice, exceeding the federal 75-hour minimum.
CNA training programs in Georgia 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 Georgia Nurse Aide Registry. If you fail, most states allow retakes, but check with the Georgia Department of Community Health Nurse Aide Registry for Georgia’s specific retake policy.
State registry
Once you pass the competency evaluation, your name is placed on the Georgia Department of Community Health Nurse Aide 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: Georgia Department of Community Health Nurse Aide Registry.
Georgia note: Georgia's CNA demand is driven by a growing population and expanding healthcare systems, particularly in the Atlanta metropolitan area.
Average salary in Georgia
CNAs in Georgia typically earn $30,000-$36,000 per year. Pay varies by setting, experience, shift differentials, and geographic location within the state.
Top employers in Georgia include Emory Healthcare, Piedmont Healthcare, Wellstar Health System, Grady Health System, skilled nursing facilities statewide.
Renewal requirements
Certification is valid for 2 years. Must have worked as a CNA for compensation within the 24-month period to maintain active status.
Reciprocity (transferring from another state)
Georgia accepts out-of-state CNA certifications through reciprocity. Must submit proof of training and have an active certification in good standing.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a CNA in Georgia?
CNA training programs in Georgia typically take 4-12 weeks to complete. State requires a minimum of 85 hours of training, including at least 24 hours of supervised clinical practice, exceeding the federal 75-hour minimum. After completing your training, you must pass the competency evaluation to be placed on the state registry.
How much do CNAs make in Georgia?
CNAs in Georgia typically earn $30,000-$36,000 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 Emory Healthcare, Piedmont Healthcare, Wellstar Health System, Grady Health System, skilled nursing facilities statewide.
Can I transfer my CNA certification to Georgia from another state?
Georgia accepts out-of-state CNA certifications through reciprocity. Must submit proof of training and have an active certification in good standing. Contact the Georgia Department of Community Health Nurse Aide Registry for the most current reciprocity requirements.