2026 Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) License Education Requirements in Hawaii

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Hawaii's growing elderly population has increased the demand for Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs), with employment projected to grow by 18% through 2030, outpacing the national average. The state's median CNA wage exceeds $37,000 annually, making it a financially attractive career choice. These factors highlight the value of obtaining a CNA license in Hawaii, as it offers stable job prospects and competitive compensation within the healthcare sector.

This article details the specific education requirements for acquiring a CNA license in Hawaii. Crafted by career planning experts, it provides clear, data-backed guidance to help prospective students navigate licensing prerequisites effectively and pursue this rewarding healthcare profession with confidence.

Key Things to Know About CNA License Education Requirements in Hawaii

CNA candidates in Hawaii must complete a state-approved training program of at least 75 hours, including 16 hours of supervised clinical practice.
Hawaii requires passing the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, which evaluates both written and skills competencies specific to local healthcare standards.
Continuous workforce data shows a 12% growth in CNA demand by 2030 in Hawaii, highlighting the importance of accredited education for sustainable career opportunities.

What are the education requirements to become a CNA in Hawaii?
What subjects are taught in CNA classes in Hawaii?
What steps are required to get a CNA license in Hawaii?
How long does it take to receive a CNA license in Hawaii?
How often do you need to renew your CNA license in Hawaii?
What continuing education is required for CNAs in Hawaii?
Can CNAs Transition to Medical Assistant Roles in Hawaii?
Can out-of-state CNAs transfer their license to Hawaii?
Which employers hire newly certified nurse aides in Hawaii?
What is the average salary for CNAs in Hawaii?
How can CNAs in Hawaii advance to higher nursing roles?

What are the education requirements to become a CNA in Hawaii?

Formal education and training play a pivotal role in equipping Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) to deliver safe and effective patient care within Hawaii's diverse healthcare environments. Proper preparation ensures CNAs can competently address patient needs in long-term care, sub-acute, and home health settings.

Meeting the Hawaii state approved nurse aide training program requirements is a critical step toward qualification. The following outlines the typical minimum education and training requirements for becoming a certified nurse aide in Hawaii:

State-Approved Training Program: Completion of a state-approved nurse aide training and competency evaluation program is mandatory. This program generally comprises at least 100 hours of instruction, including 30 hours of classroom learning and 70 hours of supervised clinical experience, covering essential skills such as communication, infection control, and basic nursing procedures.
Classroom Curriculum: The classroom component emphasizes vital topics like interpersonal communication, safety protocols, infection control, residents' rights, and an overview of the healthcare system in Hawaii. It also includes fundamental medical terminology necessary for efficient care delivery.
Clinical Training: Supervised practical training is essential, providing hands-on experience in nursing skills, personal care, and restorative services. This exposure is closely monitored by licensed healthcare professionals to ensure competence and confidence.
CPR and Health Requirements: Before clinical participation, students must obtain CPR and First Aid certifications, submit health documentation including immunizations, and successfully clear a criminal background check, ensuring patient safety and compliance with state regulations.
Certification Exam: Upon completing the education and training phases, candidates are eligible to take the CNA certification exam through the Prometric Testing Center, a necessary credential for official certification.

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What subjects are taught in CNA classes in Hawaii?

CNA training programs in Hawaii are meticulously designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and practical skills required for delivering quality patient care across diverse healthcare environments.

These state-approved programs integrate both classroom education and hands-on clinical experience, ensuring students are well-prepared to meet Hawaii's certification requirements. Incorporating the Hawaii CNA course curriculum, students gain a comprehensive foundation in key healthcare topics.

Core subjects typically covered in certified nurse aide classes include the following:

Basic Nursing Skills: This subject focuses on essential nursing functions such as monitoring vital signs, assisting with patient mobility and hygiene, and recognizing changes in patient conditions. Mastery of these skills enables CNAs to provide direct care and report urgent concerns effectively.
Anatomy and Physiology: Students learn the fundamental structure and functions of the human body, which helps them understand the impact of illness and aging on body systems. This knowledge is critical for identifying signs of patient deterioration and delivering appropriate care.
Infection Control: Training covers infection prevention methods, including hand hygiene, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and sterilization. Effective infection control is vital to protect both patients and healthcare staff, especially in vulnerable settings like long-term care.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Emphasis is placed on verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening, and techniques for interacting with patients, families, and healthcare teams. These skills are key to fostering understanding and managing challenging situations.
Patient Safety Procedures: Coursework includes safety protocols such as emergency responses (e.g., Heimlich maneuver), fall prevention, and safe patient handling. These ensure a safer healthcare environment by reducing risks and preventing injuries.
Personal Care Skills: Training covers assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, feeding, and grooming. Proficiency in these tasks supports patient dignity and independence.
Mental Health and Social Service Needs: Students learn to recognize emotional and psychological needs, including cognitive impairments. This prepares CNAs to provide compassionate care addressing overall patient well-being.
Residents' Rights and Professional Conduct: Instruction includes legal and ethical responsibilities such as patient privacy and advocacy, fostering respectful and compliant care practices.
Restorative Care and Rehabilitation: Basic restorative techniques like range-of-motion exercises are taught to support patient recovery and maintain mobility.
Hawaii-Specific Healthcare Systems and Cultural Competence: This area introduces Hawaii's healthcare system and emphasizes cultural sensitivity, preparing CNAs to work effectively within the state's diverse communities.

Many students in these CNA training programs in Hawaii explore career progression opportunities, including how to transition from RN to NP, to expand their roles within healthcare.

What steps are required to get a CNA license in Hawaii?

Completing the licensing process for certified nurse aides (CNAs) in Hawaii is critical to ensure that candidates meet rigorous professional and state-mandated standards necessary for delivering safe patient care. This process verifies that CNAs possess the required skills, knowledge, and ethical background to support healthcare settings effectively.

Below are the essential steps to obtain a CNA license in Hawaii:

Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enroll in and finish a Hawaii state-approved nurse aide training course comprising at least 100 hours, including classroom instruction and supervised clinical practice. The curriculum covers patient care basics, infection control, communication, and safety protocols vital to healthcare environments.
Meet Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED. They also need to provide proof of immunizations and a negative tuberculosis test, ensuring adherence to healthcare safety standards.
Pass the Hawaii Nurse Aide Competency Exam: Successfully complete the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program exam, administered by Prometric. This exam consists of written or oral and practical skill evaluations, with a passing score typically set at 70%; candidates may attempt it up to three times within two years.
Undergo a Criminal Background Check: Submit to federal and state criminal history checks to verify suitability for patient care roles, a mandatory step safeguarding vulnerable populations.
Apply for State Certification: Submit proof of training completion, exam results, and fees ($25 processing, $216 exam) to the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Successful applicants are listed on the Hawaii Nurse Aide Registry, enabling lawful employment.
Maintain Certification and Renew as Required: Renewal every two years requires demonstrating at least eight hours of paid nurse aide work during the certification period and submitting a renewal application with a $27 fee to maintain active status.

How long does it take to receive a CNA license in Hawaii?

The total timeline to obtain a licensed Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) credential in Hawaii varies depending on a range of factors, including the duration of the training program, the availability of certification exam dates, and the length of state processing for background checks and licensure paperwork. While some candidates complete the process efficiently, others face delays that can extend the timeline considerably.

Typically, CNA training programs in Hawaii require a minimum of 100 hours, combining classroom instruction and clinical practice. Many programs, such as one offered by a local community college, extend up to 150 hours over approximately 12 weeks.

After finishing training, candidates must pass the Hawaii Nurse Aide Competency Exam, which is scheduled based on testing center availability. Exam dates are usually accessible within weeks, though high demand periods can lengthen wait times.

Once the exam is passed, applicants undergo background checks and submit their paperwork to the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Processing times for licensure applications generally span several weeks but can vary according to application volume and background check complexities.

On average, the process from starting training to receiving an official CNA license takes about three to four months, though individual experiences differ.

When speaking with a certified nurse aide from Hawaii who graduated from a local school, he reflected on his journey: "The academic part was straightforward, but scheduling the exam took longer than expected because of peak demand. After passing, the waiting period for the background check and state approval felt like the longest stretch. It required patience, staying organized with documents, and keeping in touch with the licensing office."

His experience highlights how each phase-from classroom to certification-plays a critical role in determining the overall timeline, emphasizing the importance of planning and persistence during the process.

How often do you need to renew your CNA license in Hawaii?

Maintaining an active Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) license in Hawaii is critical to ensure ongoing competency, adherence to healthcare standards, and legal eligibility to work. The CNA license renewal requirements in Hawaii are designed to keep aides informed of best practices and patient safety protocols through scheduled updates every two years.

Below are the essential elements involved in the renewal process to help CNAs stay compliant and professionally current.

Renewal Frequency: CNAs must renew their license every 24 months, a fixed biennial schedule that standardizes certification validity across all aides in the state.
Renewal Deadline: Applications should be submitted within 30 days before expiration, allowing adequate processing time and preventing lapses in certification status.
Renewal Fees: If employed in a Medicaid/Medicare-approved facility, no fee is required; otherwise, a $27 recertification fee applies. Online renewals before expiration involve a $25 non-refundable fee.
Work Experience Requirements: Renewal eligibility requires at least 8 hours of paid nursing-related work under licensed supervision within the last two years, ensuring practical, hands-on experience.
Continuing Education: CNAs must complete 24 hours of continuing education relevant to their role during each certification period, including workshops or approved online training.
Competency Evaluation: A skills assessment by a registered nurse instructor or qualified evaluator is mandatory to verify clinical proficiency before renewal.

For those seeking advanced knowledge, exploring a best rated acute care nurse practitioner program can be a natural next step after maintaining CNA certification. Understanding how often to renew CNA certification in Hawaii and meeting these strict requirements safeguards both career continuity and quality patient care.

What continuing education is required for CNAs in Hawaii?

Continuing education is vital for certified nurse aides (CNAs) in Hawaii to maintain their licenses, as it ensures they remain well-prepared to deliver high-quality patient care and adapt to evolving healthcare standards. This ongoing learning process sharpens clinical skills and supports compliance with healthcare regulations.

Below are the essential continuing education requirements for CNAs in Hawaii:

Minimum Required Hours: CNAs must complete at least 24 hours of continuing education within each two-year certification period before recertification. This ensures consistent skill updates necessary for safe and effective patient care.
Approved Training Topics: Educational content must focus on subjects pertinent to nurse aide duties, including communication, infection control, safety procedures, patient rights, basic nursing skills, personal care, mental health, and Hawaii's healthcare delivery system.
Course Providers and Formats: Training is offered by approved entities such as community colleges, healthcare agencies, or registered nurses. Both in-person and online formats are acceptable, provided courses meet state-approved curriculum standards and guidelines. This flexibility supports various learning preferences and schedules.
Recordkeeping and Certification: After completing each course, CNAs receive certificates detailing course title, instructor, and hours completed. It is the CNA's responsibility to maintain these documents for recertification and potential audits by state authorities.
Employment Verification: In addition to education hours, proof of employment performing nursing or related supervised duties for at least 12 hours in the previous 24 months is required. This complements the continuing education requirements for CNAs in Hawaii by demonstrating recent practical experience.

For CNAs aiming to advance their careers, exploring the rankings of the best online MSN to FNP programs can provide pathways toward advanced nursing roles.

Can CNAs Transition to Medical Assistant Roles in Hawaii?

Some CNAs pursue a transition into medical assisting as a way to diversify their skills and broaden career opportunities within Hawaii’s healthcare sector. This alternative pathway typically requires additional training focused on administrative and technical patient care responsibilities, distinct from traditional CNA duties. Aspiring professionals should review specific certification prerequisites and examine structured programs that facilitate this career shift. For guidance on program options and streamlined pathways, consult how to become a medical assistant in Hawaii.

Can out-of-state CNAs transfer their license to Hawaii?

Hawaii permits out-of-state certified nurse aides (CNAs) to transfer their licenses through a process known as reciprocity. To qualify, CNAs must hold an active certification in good standing from another state's Nurse Aide Registry, free from disciplinary actions or patient-related infractions.

Hawaii requires proof of recent paid work as a CNA under RN supervision for at least eight hours within the past two years. Unlike some states, Hawaii does not mandate fingerprinting or additional state exams, simplifying the transfer pathway. The reciprocity process supports workforce mobility and helps address local healthcare staffing needs.

Applicants must submit a specific reciprocity application form to Prometric, Hawaii's contracted registry manager, include a copy of their current CNA certificate, government-issued ID, and pay a $27 fee by certified check or money order.

Verification with the original state is conducted before registry approval. All submissions are accepted only by mail, with no online or fax option. This streamlined procedure enables qualified CNAs to commence work in Hawaii promptly.

When I spoke with a certified nurse aide recently graduated from a Hawaii-based program, she described how her out-of-state certification eased her transition to working locally. "Navigating the application was straightforward once I understood the documentation needed," she recalled.

"Maintaining my active status and having recent work experience really helped." She appreciated that no extra exams were required, which allowed her to begin employment faster. Still, mailing in the application felt slow compared to online processes elsewhere, a small but notable hurdle in her otherwise positive journey.

Which employers hire newly certified nurse aides in Hawaii?

Newly certified nurse aides (CNAs) in Hawaii can find employment across various healthcare settings focused on direct patient care and support to licensed nurses. The state's sustained demand for quality long-term and acute care ensures stable opportunities for entry-level CNAs in multiple facility types.

These employers provide diverse environments for skill development and career advancement.

Hospitals: Hospitals like The Queen's Medical Center often employ CNAs to assist with patient care, transportation, and basic nursing procedures. New CNAs gain exposure to fast-paced, acute care settings while supporting activities of daily living and monitoring vital signs.
Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities: Facilities such as Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home hire CNAs to support elderly or chronically ill residents with daily hygiene, mobility, and medication reminders. These environments offer consistent demand due to Hawaii's aging population.
Assisted Living Communities: Assisted living homes provide roles where CNAs help residents maintain independence by supporting personal care, health monitoring, and meal preparation. These settings value new CNAs for their updated training and empathetic care approach.
Home Health Agencies: CNAs employed by home health agencies deliver personalized care at clients' homes, assisting with hygiene, medication, and light housekeeping. This setting requires adaptability and offers independent work opportunities.
Rehabilitation Centers: Rehabilitation and skilled nursing centers hire CNAs to aid patients recovering from surgery or illness with exercises, progress monitoring, and bedside support. These roles help meet fluctuating patient volumes during critical recovery periods.

What is the average salary for CNAs in Hawaii?

Salaries for certified nurse aides (CNAs) in Hawaii fluctuate considerably based on factors such as experience level, work environment, and geographic location. These variations impact the overall earning potential of CNAs, making it important for individuals to understand these salary dynamics in order to make well-informed decisions about their career paths and job prospects.

Insight into pay trends enhances the ability to evaluate offers and plan for professional growth. Below are key salary insights reflecting the current landscape for CNAs in Hawaii:

Average Hourly and Annual Pay: The average CNA salary in Hawaii shows variation across reporting sources. Indeed cites an average hourly wage of $25.55, while ZipRecruiter reports an annual figure of approximately $39,312, equating to around $18.90 per hour. Another data point suggests a higher hourly rate of $21.87, positioning Hawaii among higher-paying states for CNAs.
Pay Variation by Experience Level: Certified nursing assistant pay in Hawaii generally increases with years of experience. Entry-level CNAs tend to earn less, whereas seasoned professionals command higher wages due to accumulated skills and responsibilities.
Differences Across Healthcare Facilities: Earnings often differ by work setting. Hospitals typically offer higher pay compared to nursing homes or home health agencies, reflecting the distinct demands and resources in various healthcare environments.
Regional Pay Trends: Location within Hawaii influences CNA wages. Urban centers like Honolulu usually provide higher salaries compared to more rural areas such as Hilo or Kaneohe, highlighting the impact of regional economic factors on compensation.
Additional Factors Influencing Earnings: Overtime pay, shift differentials, and bonuses can significantly elevate total income. Some nursing assistants in Hawaii earn roughly $4,500 annually in overtime alone, with added pay potential through leadership roles or expanded duties.

For those exploring advancement opportunities beyond CNA certification, pursuing further credentials can be facilitated by reviewing a list of most affordable adult-gerontology nurse practitioner programs to support long-term career development.

How can CNAs in Hawaii advance to higher nursing roles?

Many certified nurse aides (CNAs) in Hawaii leverage their foundational healthcare experience as a stepping stone toward more advanced nursing careers. Progression typically requires additional education, certification, and clinical training to qualify for higher roles with increased responsibility and better pay.

Below are the common career advancement paths available to CNAs in Hawaii, detailing education requirements, training duration, and potential salary improvements.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): CNAs can enter state-approved LPN programs lasting 12-18 months, often through "earn and learn" models that allow part-time work alongside coursework and clinical labs. Graduates sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and typically earn significantly higher salaries than CNAs.
Registered Nurse (RN): Advancing requires completing a 2-4 year ADN or BSN degree, with many Hawaii institutions offering transfer credits for CNA experience. Registered nurses have broader career opportunities and higher earning potential.
Specialized Healthcare Roles: Short-term certificate programs (3-12 months) prepare CNAs for roles such as medical assistant or phlebotomist, providing higher pay and versatile clinical-administrative responsibilities.
Nurse Practitioner or APRN: After obtaining RN licensure, pursuing master's or doctoral degrees enables entry into advanced practice roles with the highest autonomy and compensation.
Healthcare Administration or Management: Degrees or certificates in administration support CNAs moving into leadership positions requiring clinical experience and advanced education.

What Do CNAs in Hawaii Say About Their Career?

"Completing my certified nurse aide program at Leeward Community College was a transformative step. The hands-on training prepared me so well for the realities of working in a local school environment, where I quickly learned the importance of patience, care, and cultural sensitivity. I love the daily chance to support children from diverse backgrounds and witness their growth. Hawaii's unique community has given me a strong sense of purpose and belonging." Kai
"Starting my career as a certified nurse aide in a Hawaiian academic institution has been incredibly rewarding. The experience not only honed my professional skills but also deepened my understanding of the importance of integrating local customs and values in student care. Working here has encouraged me to pursue further certification and leadership roles. I feel proud to contribute positively to the health and well-being of our youth in this vibrant island community." Isabella
"The journey of becoming a CNA through Maui Adult Education opened doors I never imagined. Beyond job stability, this path has been about meaningful personal growth and making an impact within our islands' rich cultural environment. Navigating challenges unique to Hawaii's healthcare system has made me a more adaptable and compassionate caregiver. It's fulfilling to know that my work supports families in such a special place." David

References:

Professional & Vocational Licensing Division | Check The Status Of Your Application https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/check-the-status-of-your-application/
Travel Nursing: How to Transfer CNA License to Another State https://www.careerstaff.com/clinician-life-blog/how-to-transfer-your-cna-license-to-another-state/
Hawaii Nurses CE Requirements, Accreditations & Approvals - NetCE https://www.netce.com/ce-requirements/nursing/hi/
CNA Recertification / 24 Hour Competency & Proficiency Evaluation Program – Healthcare School of Hawaii LLC (HSCH) https://healthcareschoolofhawaii.com/cna-recertification-24-hour-competency-proficiency-evaluation-program/
CNA Travelers/Travel Assignments | How can I get my CNA reciprocity for Hawaii | Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/755905511198718/posts/24351424264553511/
Nurse Aide State Certification | PHE – Professional Healthcare Educators https://phe-hawaii.com/classes/nurse-aide-state-certification/
173 nurse aide jobs in Hawaii, October 2025 | Glassdoor https://www.glassdoor.ca/Job/hawaii-nurse-aide-jobs-SRCH_IL.0,6_IS1385_KO7,17.htm
Advanced Nurse Aide | Hawaii Medical College https://hmi.edu/programs/advanced-nurse-aide/
Hawaii Training Requirements | CareAcademy https://careacademy.com/state-requirements/hawaii/
Exploring Career Pathways: From Nurse Aide to Advanced Healthcare Roles - WeCareOnlineClasses https://wecareonlineclasses.com/exploring-career-pathways-from-nurse-aide-to-advanced-healthcare-roles/

Other Things You Should Know About CNA License Education Requirements in Hawaii

What happens if your CNA license application is denied in Hawaii?

If your Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) license application is denied in Hawaii, you will typically receive a formal notice explaining the reasons for the denial, which may include issues such as incomplete documentation or failing to meet eligibility requirements. You have the right to request a hearing to contest the decision within a specified timeframe, providing you an opportunity to present evidence or clarify misunderstandings.

Until the issue is resolved and your application is approved, you cannot legally work as a CNA in Hawaii. It is important to address the denial promptly to avoid significant delays in beginning your nursing aide career.

How do you renew an expired CNA license in Hawaii?

Renewing an expired Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) license in Hawaii requires CNAs to complete the state-mandated renewal process, which typically involves submitting a renewal application and paying a fee. If the license has been expired for more than two years, the CNA may need to retake the competency examination or complete additional training to reinstate their certification.

It is important to verify all specific renewal requirements with the Hawaii Board of Nursing, as timely renewal ensures uninterrupted certification and employment eligibility. Staying informed about continuing education and renewal deadlines helps avoid complications associated with expired licenses.

How physically demanding is the CNA job in Hawaii?

The job of a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Hawaii is physically demanding due to the nature of patient care responsibilities, which often require lifting, transferring, and assisting patients with mobility. CNAs typically spend long hours on their feet, performing tasks that involve bending, reaching, and sometimes working in confined spaces.

This role demands stamina and strength, making physical fitness important for safely managing daily duties and reducing the risk of injury. Prospective CNAs should be prepared for an active work environment that requires both endurance and careful attention to body mechanics.

Is there a demand for CNAs in Hawaii?

The demand for Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) in Hawaii is strong and expected to grow due to the state's aging population and the increasing need for long-term care services. Healthcare facilities, including nursing homes and assisted living centers, consistently seek qualified CNAs to provide essential patient care and support. This creates promising job opportunities for those who complete the necessary education and certification requirements in Hawaii.

Aspiring CNAs should be encouraged by the stable demand and the potential for career growth within the state's healthcare industry.