Becoming a CNA in Georgia

Starting with CNA Training in Georgia

If you are considering getting your CNA certification in the state of Georgia, you should start by enrolling in a CNA training program that is approved or accredited by the state’s Board of Nursing. These classes will be geared towards helping you learn the skills necessary to pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program Exam (NNAAP). The backing of a solid education will make all the difference when it comes time to take the examination, so choose your program carefully.

The state of Georgia is one of the states in the US with a rapidly increasing elderly population. It is one of the states projected to need an increasing number of CNAs now and in the future. For someone who is good at caring for others, especially the elderly and the senior citizens, this is a very good opportunity to earn money with your natural talents. Moreover, since projections indicate an increasing number of elderly in the State of Georgia, there are very good career prospects after completion of a CNA training program and obtaining your certified nursing assistant certification.

Enrollment and Completion of CNA Classes in Georgia

Step 1:
Find an approved program in your state:
Find a CNA Training Program in Georgia

The curriculum for CNA training is divided into two parts. The first part consists of 16 hours training, during which no contact can be made with any resident or patient. In these first 16 hours, courses taken are: communication and interpersonal skills; infection control; safety and emergency procedures; resident’s independence; and resident’s rights. In the second part of the training contact can be made with residents. The second part covers the following courses: basic nursing skills; personal care; mental health and social service needs; care of confused residents; basic restorative services; and residents’ rights.

Step 2:

Before an applicant can be accepted into Georgia’s state approved CNA training programs, he or she must fulfill the following requirements. First, there has to be background checks, two fingerprint cards, a photo id, two photos (passport size). A TB test with negative result in the last six months and proof of immunization, also student must enter the program with a High school diploma or GED.

Step 3:

Once accepted into a state approved CNA training institution, the basic number of course hours required for CNA classes in Georgia is 85 hours. These hours are comprised of classroom tutorials and clinicals. Some training institutions may offer additional certifications such as CPR, BBP (blood borne pathogens), First Aid or HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). Schools offering these additional certifications will normally charge a higher tuition cost.

CNA Testing Procedures and Applying for CNA Certification in Georgia

Step 1:

At this point you will have finished your education, and you will be ready to sit for the CNA exam in Georgia.   Georgia tests through Pearson Vue, the test can be taken at any of their training centers. For additional information check out their handbook.

To prep for the exam visit our online testing modules here.

Step 2:

Before a candidate is certified as a CNA (meaning he or she can work in any healthcare facility) he or she has to apply for the Georgia National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP). This Pearson VUE (formerly Promissor) exam is a requirement to be placed on the  Georgia Medical Care Foundation registry. The examination measures the candidate’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in related areas. It is a two part examination, a written (or oral) and skills. The written exam is in English, while the oral examination can either be in English or Spanish. A candidate has a choice of either one. The written exam consists of 70 multiple choice questions in English; while the oral exam consists of 60 multiple choice questions and 10 multiple choice comprehension questions all on a tape. A candidate must pass both the written (or oral) and the skills exam. The skills exam evaluates 5 randomly selected nurse aide’s skills. Successful candidates will be registered in the Georgia Nurse Aide Registry. License is valid for 24 months after initial licensure. A letter informing you of expiration is usually sent 3-5 months before expiration. Renewal is free in Georgia, and retest is only required if you have not worked up to 8 hours in the last 2 year.

Step 3:

Once you are approved you qualify for employment as a CNA or HHA.  Make sure to keep your licenses up to date.  CNA certification must be renewed every two years, and your CPR license is every two years as well.

Now that you have become certified it is importrant to start marketing yourself to employers.  Check out our jobs database,  create a profile and resume to make it easy for employers to find you.

Step 4:

COntinue your education.  Don’t let becoming a CNA be the end.  While this career field is very rewarding, we suggest moving forward and exploring the possibilities of becoming a Registered Nurse or LPN.

For Additional Information regarding CNA Certification in Florida visit:

Georgia Nurse Aide Registry
Georgia Health Partnership – GMCF
1455 Lincoln Parkway East, Suite 750, Atlanta, GA 30346
Phone: (678) 527-3010 or (800) 414-4358
Fax: 678-527-3001