If you’re pursuing a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Ohio, you need to know exactly what the state requires before you can start working. Ohio 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 Ohio 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 75 hours of training (meeting the federal minimum), including at least 16 hours of supervised clinical practice.
CNA training programs in Ohio 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 the Ohio Department of Health through D&S Diversified Technologies, consisting of a written knowledge test and clinical skills demonstration.
You must pass both portions of the exam to be placed on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry. If you fail, most states allow retakes, but check with the Ohio Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry for Ohio’s specific retake policy.
State registry
Once you pass the competency evaluation, your name is placed on the Ohio Department of 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: Ohio Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry.
Ohio note: Ohio meets the federal minimum for CNA training hours. The state has strong demand for CNAs in both major metro areas (Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati) and rural communities.
Average salary in Ohio
CNAs in Ohio typically earn $32,000-$38,000 per year. Pay varies by setting, experience, shift differentials, and geographic location within the state.
Top employers in Ohio include Cleveland Clinic, OhioHealth, University Hospitals, Kettering Health, skilled nursing facilities statewide.
Renewal requirements
Certification is valid for 2 years. Must have performed nursing-related services for compensation within the 24-month period.
Reciprocity (transferring from another state)
Ohio accepts out-of-state CNA certifications through reciprocity. Must submit proof of training and pass a background check.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a CNA in Ohio?
CNA training programs in Ohio typically take 4-12 weeks to complete. State requires a minimum of 75 hours of training (meeting the federal minimum), including at least 16 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 Ohio?
CNAs in Ohio 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 Cleveland Clinic, OhioHealth, University Hospitals, Kettering Health, skilled nursing facilities statewide.
Can I transfer my CNA certification to Ohio from another state?
Ohio accepts out-of-state CNA certifications through reciprocity. Must submit proof of training and pass a background check. Contact the Ohio Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry for the most current reciprocity requirements.