If you’re pursuing a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Pennsylvania, you need to know exactly what the state requires before you can start working. Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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 80 hours of training, including at least 37.5 hours of supervised clinical practice, exceeding the federal 75-hour minimum.
CNA training programs in Pennsylvania 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 American Red Cross, 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 Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry. If you fail, most states allow retakes, but check with the Pennsylvania Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry for Pennsylvania’s specific retake policy.
State registry
Once you pass the competency evaluation, your name is placed on the Pennsylvania 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: Pennsylvania Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry.
Pennsylvania note: Pennsylvania has a large aging population and strong demand for CNAs in both urban hospital systems and rural long-term care facilities.
Average salary in Pennsylvania
CNAs in Pennsylvania typically earn $34,000-$40,000 per year. Pay varies by setting, experience, shift differentials, and geographic location within the state.
Top employers in Pennsylvania include UPMC, Penn Medicine, Geisinger Health, Tower 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 renewal period.
Reciprocity (transferring from another state)
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
CNA training programs in Pennsylvania typically take 4-12 weeks to complete. State requires a minimum of 80 hours of training, including at least 37.5 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 Pennsylvania?
CNAs in Pennsylvania typically earn $34,000-$40,000 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 UPMC, Penn Medicine, Geisinger Health, Tower Health, skilled nursing facilities statewide.
Can I transfer my CNA certification to Pennsylvania from another state?
Pennsylvania accepts out-of-state CNA certifications through reciprocity. Must submit proof of training and have an active certification in good standing. Contact the Pennsylvania Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry for the most current reciprocity requirements.