Becoming a CNA in Hawaii

Nurse aides are an integral part of the patient care workforce in people’s homes and residential care facilities; therefore, skilled CNAs are in high demand in Hawaii. The department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs approves CNA training programs and maintains the Hawaii Nurse Aide Registry that lists all certified nurse assistants legally certified to work in Hawaii.

In order to be considered  a qualified nurse aide in Hawaii you will need to find a program that is accredited and approved by the State Department of Human Services. After you complete these training courses, you will have a chance to pass the nurse aide certification test in Hawaii.

Although jobs beyond the service and tourism industries are hard to come by on the islands, the career of a nurse aide here is quite stable.  Hawaiians tend to take care of their elderly as a part of their loving culture, and there is a large market working for private employers within the state. Students often realize that it is rather exciting to possess the qualities needed to improve the life of another as a CNA in Hawaii.

Enrollment and Completion of CNA Classes in Hawaii

Step 1:

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

Course content will provide you with the knowledge you need concerning how to control contagious infections, helping to establish a residents’ independence, feeding, bathing, and clothing incapacitated patients, and receive certification in administering CPR.

Step 2:

To qualify to sit for the licensing examination, you will need to choose a program with CNA classes that provide a minimum of 100 hours of studies. A specific number of these will be devoted to class time teachings and the remaining hours will be spend performing hands-on clinical practices to prepare you for real world applications of the trade.

Step 3:

Prior to being allowed into a program you will need to be live scan finger printed, have a physical exam, have a full background check, and make sure that you are up on your immunizations.

CNA Testing Procedures and Applying for CNA Certification in Hawaii

Step 1:

Now that you have finished your training,  the next step will be to get your certification.  You can find your application here.   Begin your application as soon as possible.

Step 2:

Once your course hours are complete, you are eligible to take the CNA certification test. You will need to put in an application and show proof that you have finished the state program. Your test will contain portions on theory as well as portions on performing practical skills. Each test will be taken separately and will be scored on a ratio of percentage you get correct. After you pass the test, you will be mailed a card to show that you are a valid certified member of the Hawaii Nurse Assistant Registry.

In Hawaii, either your CNA training facility or the American Red Cross will administer the Nurse Aide Certification exam. The overall control of CNA’s is under the Department of Health services, but Med-Quest Division directly monitors it. The certification exam consists of two parts – the written and the skill exam. The entire exam takes 5½ hours to complete, and must all be taken in one day. The practical skills exam is the first, and candidates must pass this before going for the written exam. This portion involves you performing five or six of your skills before a testing administrator successfully.

The written exam is typically a multiple choice examination that is graded by a computer, which means that often test results are available the same day. You should receive an official statement via mail or email declaring your CNA certification in Hawaii as official, and your name will be added to the nurse aide registry.

Step 3:

You will get your certification and be listed on the State registry soon after passing your exam.   Prepare your resume and create a profile on our site to  get your application to employers in your area.

Step 4:

It is important to keep moving forward with your education.  Many CNAs go on to become Registered Nurses or LPN’s.  If you are interested in creating even more job security and increasing your salary, look into programs in your area. 

For Additional Information regarding how to enjoy CNA Certification in Hawaii Please visit:

Hawaii Nurse Aide Registry
Hawaii Dept. of Commerce & Consumers Affairs
Professional and Vocational Licensing Branch
335 Merchant St.
3rd Floor, Room 301
Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 739-8122
Fax: (808) 734-8318