Alabama CNA Program Entry
Unless specified by the training facility, certified nursing aide training programs do not require a high school diploma or a GED. This requirement is not set by the Alabama Department of Health. Any high school students who are interested in entering the field of nursing have the opportunity to complete a training program prior to their graduation. These high school students may seek employment as CNAs while pursuing another degree in nursing upon graduation. High school graduates may need to wait before applying for employment as most employers have a minimum age requirement of 18 years old. Applicants to the program are required to fill out an application, have a background check, and must not have a criminal record.
Alabama CNA Program Specifics
- The Alabama CNA Training Program requires at least 75 hours for both classroom-based and clinical or hands on training.
- In some colleges, such programs extend to 140 hours.
- Prospective CNAs are required to take and pass the CNA exam (National Nurse Aide Assessment Program) upon completion of the program permitted by the Alabama State Department of Health.
- This exam is composed of two parts, a hands-on evaluation and a written exam. In order to obtain their CNA certification, examinees must pass both sections.
- The CNA assessment exam must be taken within 24 months of training program completion or repeat the training program.
Alabama Renewal of CNA Certification
- All certified Alabama nurse aides are required to renew their licenses every two years.
- Some employers will pay for CNA certification renewal or reimburse the renewal fee.
- The CNA must complete at least 40 working hours during the prior year to be qualified for renewal.
- A CNA will receive renewal process information from the Nurse Aide Registry prior to the expiration of his/her license.
- Failure to complete the renewal process results in having to repeat the CNA training program and possibly the CNA exam.
Alabama CNA Certification Transfer
- A nurse aid relocating to Alabama may transfer an active certification license that is in good standing with no record of abuse or neglect.
- There is a standard fee for transferring a license over to Alabama.
- An employer has the option to settle the payment for the certification transfer of the employee.
- Without an employer to offer sponsorship, a CNA may not be able to transfer his/her certification to Alabama.
