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

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Obtaining a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) license in Kansas opens doors to a growing healthcare field, with over 28,000 CNAs employed statewide. This career offers stability and personal fulfillment, especially as the demand for qualified aides rises with an aging population. Kansas provides accessible training programs that blend classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience, setting a strong foundation for success.

This article explores the specific education requirements to become a licensed CNA in Kansas. Crafted by experts in career planning, it guides readers through necessary coursework, clinical hours, and certification exams, ensuring clear understanding for those eager to advance in this essential healthcare role.

Key Things to Know About CNA License Education Requirements in Kansas

Kansas requires completion of a state-approved CNA training program with at least 75 hours combining classroom theory and hands-on clinical practice.
Students must pass both a written exam and a practical skills test administered by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services to earn licensure.
The growing demand for CNAs in Kansas, with a projected 15% workforce increase by 2030, makes timely education crucial for job placement and career growth.

What are the education requirements to become a CNA in Kansas?
What subjects are taught in CNA classes in Kansas?
What steps are required to get a CNA license in Kansas?
How long does it take to receive a CNA license in Kansas?
How often do you need to renew your CNA license in Kansas?
What continuing education is required for CNAs in Kansas?
Which factors should be considered when selecting a CNA training program in Kansas?
Can out-of-state CNAs transfer their license to Kansas?
Which employers hire newly certified nurse aides in Kansas?
What is the average salary for CNAs in Kansas?
How can CNAs in Kansas advance to higher nursing roles?

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

Stepping into the world of healthcare as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Kansas begins with a solid foundation of formal education and hands-on training. This combination equips aspiring CNAs to deliver safe, compassionate, and effective care in diverse settings, from nursing homes to long-term care facilities. The journey ensures a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, essential for meeting patient needs and upholding high care standards.

Here are the essential requirements to meet before becoming a certified nurse aide in Kansas:

Minimum Age Requirement: Candidates must be at least 16 years old to enroll in a CNA training program, with those under 18 needing parental consent. This early start encourages responsible caregiving and dedication to the profession from a young age.
State-Approved Training Program: Completion of a Kansas state approved nurse aide course is mandatory. The curriculum consists of at least 90 hours split equally between classroom instruction and clinical experience, ensuring a well-rounded education tailored to real-life patient care.
Classroom and Clinical Training: The program breaks down into two parts, each involving 20-25 hours of classroom learning paired with supervised clinical practice. This structure immerses students in patient care fundamentals alongside practical skills in licensed adult care facilities.
High School Diploma or GED (Recommended): While not an absolute requirement, many healthcare employers favor candidates with a high school diploma or GED to guarantee readiness for the work environment.
Health and Safety Requirements: Prospective CNAs must show a recent negative tuberculosis test and may need up-to-date immunizations and basic life support certification to protect everyone involved in care.
Competency Examination: After training, passing a written and skills-based state competency exam validates readiness to begin working. Candidates get up to three attempts within 12 months, emphasizing mastery of care standards.

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What subjects are taught in CNA classes in Kansas?

CNA training programs in Kansas are carefully crafted to provide students with both foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for delivering high-quality patient care. These programs balance classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience, ensuring that graduates are ready to excel in adult care environments. Exploring the core subjects covered reveals the breadth and depth of knowledge aspiring aides gain throughout their training.

The following list highlights the essential topics typically taught in certified nurse aide (CNA) classes in Kansas:

Basic Nursing Skills: This includes assisting residents with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding, toileting, and ambulation. Mastery of these routine tasks is vital to ensure comfort and dignity for those receiving care.
Anatomy and Physiology: Students learn about human body systems and the normal aging process. This knowledge helps CNAs detect subtle changes in residents' conditions that could signal health concerns.
Infection Control: Training emphasizes preventing the spread of infections through proper hand hygiene, use of protective equipment, and cleaning protocols. These skills protect both residents and caregivers in healthcare settings.
Communication Techniques: Effective verbal and nonverbal communication strategies are taught to engage with residents, their families, and healthcare teams. Good communication builds trust and supports coordinated care.
Patient Safety Procedures: This subject covers creating safe environments through fall prevention, emergency responses, and the correct use of body mechanics. Safety reduces risks for everyone involved in care.
Vital Signs Measurement: CNAs practice measuring blood pressure, pulse, respiration, and temperature manually, helping track residents' health and flagging early signs of issues.
Nutrition and Hydration: Students study proper feeding techniques and diet accommodations, ensuring residents' nutritional needs support their well-being and recovery.
Mobility and Positioning: Safe transfer and repositioning methods are taught to maintain residents' mobility and prevent complications such as pressure sores.
Personal Care and Hygiene: This includes oral, perineal, and skin care, which are important for infection prevention and overall health.
Resident Rights and Ethics: CNAs learn about respecting privacy, dignity, and autonomy, fundamental to providing ethical and lawful care.

For those considering further advancement in healthcare, it's valuable to explore what are the benefits of becoming a nurse practitioner, opening new doors beyond CNA roles through additional education and experience.

State with most number of nursing assistants

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

Obtaining a CNA license in Kansas is an important rite of passage for those eager to join the healthcare field and provide compassionate, skilled care. This process guarantees that each CNA is well-prepared, meets strict state standards, and is ready to face the realities of healthcare work with confidence. Here's a clear path to earn your CNA license in Kansas:

Meet Minimum Age and Consent Requirements: Applicants must be at least 16 years old, and those under 18 need parental consent. This ensures that CNA trainees have the necessary maturity and support system before stepping into hands-on patient care.
Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Enrollment in a Kansas-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) is mandatory. These programs offer at least 90 hours combining classroom learning and clinical practice, equipping students with essential skills like infection control and patient safety.
Progress Through Training Levels: Trainees begin as Nurse Aide Trainee I and, after program completion, advance to Trainee II, allowing supervised work while preparing for the state exam. This phased approach builds competence gradually.
Pass the Kansas CNA Competency Exam: The exam includes a 100-question written or oral test plus a clinical skills evaluation. Achieving a minimum score of 75% verifies readiness to deliver safe and effective care.
Undergo a Background Check: Fingerprints and criminal history reviews help maintain patient safety by ensuring trustworthy candidates enter the workforce.
Apply for State Certification and Registry Listing: After passing the exam, candidates apply with the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services. Fees apply, and successful applicants gain free registry listing, proving their qualifications to employers.

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

Becoming a licensed certified nurse aide (CNA) in Kansas involves navigating a timeline influenced by several key factors. The length of the state-approved training program, the scheduling and passing of the certification exam, and the processing time for official state licensure all contribute to the overall duration. While these steps follow standardized requirements, the pace can vary depending on program formats and administrative scheduling.

Typically, candidates complete at least 90 hours of training, with hands-on clinical practice making up half of the program. Accelerated courses can be finished in about two weeks, but many students opt for part-time formats lasting five to eight weeks. After training, passing both written and skills exams is required, with a maximum of three attempts allowed within a year before needing to retake the program.

Once the exam is passed, candidates submit their application to the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services for official certification. Processing times are not publicly detailed but usually take a few weeks. Some candidates face delays due to limited exam seat availability or background check processing, factors that can extend the timeline beyond the average two to three months.

Reflecting on this process, a certified nurse aide from Kansas shared that, after graduating from a local training program, the wait time to receive the license felt like a test of patience. "Completing the hands-on training was intense but rewarding," he recalled, "and scheduling the exam took a bit longer than expected because classes and testing slots filled quickly."

Following his successful exam, the state's processing period added a few more weeks. "It wasn't just about passing tests; it was navigating paperwork and waiting for official approval. But looking back, those weeks gave me time to prepare mentally for the next step in my career." This perspective highlights how the journey to licensure can be as much about patience and persistence as it is about education and examination.

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

Keeping your Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) license active in Kansas is more than just a bureaucratic step; it's a commitment to maintaining your skills and ensuring safe, quality care for those you serve. Staying current also meets the evolving healthcare standards that safeguard patients and support professional growth. Here's an exciting look into the key details of the CNA license renewal requirements in Kansas that every nursing aide should know.

Renewal Frequency: The CNA certification in Kansas must be renewed every two years. This biennial cycle helps guarantee that nursing assistants stay engaged with their profession and verify their competency regularly.
Renewal Deadline: CNAs have a 90-day window before the license expires to complete their renewal. This timeframe offers ample opportunity to prepare all necessary documentation and avoid any gaps in active status.
Renewal Fee: Unlike many other states, Kansas does not charge a fee to renew the CNA license. This no-cost approach eliminates financial barriers and encourages professionals to keep their certification current.
Work Hour Requirement: To be eligible for renewal, CNAs must document at least 8 hours of paid nursing or nursing-related work under a licensed nurse's supervision within the past 24 months. These hours must be earned in direct care settings such as hospitals or nursing homes, not doctor's offices.
Alternative to Work Hours: If you haven't met the work hour requirement, completing a 10-hour CNA Refresher Course offers a flexible way to maintain eligibility without retaking the exam.
Employer Verification: Your employer plays a crucial role by verifying your employment hours and submitting the required forms to the Kansas Nurse Aide Registry. This ensures all claims are accurately validated for renewal.

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Most common degree among nursing assistants

What continuing education is required for CNAs in Kansas?

Continuing education plays a vital role in helping certified nurse aides (CNAs) in Kansas maintain their licenses, sharpen their patient care skills, and adapt to the fast-evolving healthcare landscape. Staying current not only supports safety and effectiveness but also ensures CNAs meet state standards while delivering compassionate care. Here are the key continuing education requirements for CNAs navigating renewal in Kansas:

Minimum Work Requirement: CNAs must complete at least one paid, documented eight-hour shift as a nurse aide within the past 24 months. This work experience replaces traditional in-service hours, making real-world practice the cornerstone of ongoing qualification.
Refresher Course for Inactive CNAs: Those who haven't met the work requirement need to take a state-approved refresher course. This program reviews core skills, patient care techniques, and updated regulations, preparing CNAs to confidently return to the workforce.
Approved Training Topics: Refresher courses focus on vital areas such as infection control, safety protocols, effective communication, and Kansas healthcare regulations. These topics reinforce the knowledge CNAs need to thrive in their roles.
Acceptable Course Formats: Training can be completed in-person or online, as long as the course is state-approved. The flexibility of online programs accommodates busy CNAs, helping them fit education into diverse schedules.
Recordkeeping and Documentation: CNAs must retain proof of employment or course completion certificates for at least two years. These records are essential for audits or renewal verification, emphasizing accountability in the renewal process.

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Which factors should be considered when selecting a CNA training program in Kansas?

Evaluate a program’s accreditation and state approval to ensure compliance with Kansas licensing standards. Look for curricula that combine updated theoretical instruction with ample clinical practice in modern healthcare settings. Consider tuition costs, available financial aid, and flexible scheduling that accommodates varied lifestyles. Additionally, verify if the program offers career placement services and partnerships with local healthcare employers. For further insights on related career pathways, explore how to become a medical assistant in Kansas.

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

Kansas does welcome certified nurse aides (CNAs) from other states, but the journey to work there involves a unique twist. While out-of-state CNAs with active, good-standing certifications can transfer their licenses, Kansas requires them to prove their skills by passing its own Nurse Aide Test.

This blend of reciprocity and state-specific testing ensures that every CNA meets Kansas' standards while recognizing the care experience from elsewhere. No fingerprinting or extensive background checks are needed, streamlining the path.

To take the leap, applicants submit a paper or email application with a $20 fee, attaching proof of their current certification, ID, and social security card. Once approved, they get a one-year window to pass the Kansas exam with at least 75%, and can work as trainees for up to four months while preparing. The process keeps things clear yet thorough, honoring professionalism and local standards alike.

Talking with a Kansas-certified nurse aide who graduated from a local program brought the process to life. She shared, "Transferring my out-of-state license felt like unlocking a new chapter.

The most surprising part was the state exam requirement-it made me nervous at first, but also reassured me that I was fully ready for Kansas' expectations. I appreciated being able to work as a trainee during those months; it eased the transition immensely." Her experience perfectly captures the balance Kansas strikes between welcoming and ensuring quality care.

Which employers hire newly certified nurse aides in Kansas?

Newly certified nurse aides in Kansas have a wide range of opportunities to begin their careers in diverse healthcare environments that support both patients and licensed nursing staff. The demand for entry-level CNAs remains strong throughout the state, driven by the critical need for quality care in long-term and acute settings alike.

Hospitals: CNAs in hospitals provide direct patient care, assisting with daily activities, monitoring vital signs, and ensuring patient comfort under nursing supervision. Hospitals require energetic, reliable CNAs and offer numerous openings for new hires to grow their skills in fast-paced acute care.
Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities: These facilities focus on the elderly and those with chronic conditions. CNAs help residents with mobility, hygiene, feeding, and companionship, making long-term care one of the largest employers eager to hire compassionate new graduates.
Assisted Living Communities: CNAs here aid residents who need support with daily routines but not intensive medical treatment. Promoting independence while offering bathing, dressing, and medication reminders, these communities often seek new CNAs to meet the steady turnover and provide hands-on care.
Home Health Agencies: CNAs deliver personalized care in clients' homes, offering assistance with personal care, light housekeeping, and wellness checks. With an increasing preference for in-home care, this sector actively recruits fresh CNAs ready for flexible, community-based roles.
Rehabilitation Centers: Rehab facilities employ CNAs to support patients recovering from injuries or surgery through mobility help and encouragement. New CNAs are valued here for their training and eagerness to aid in patients' journey toward regained independence.

What is the average salary for CNAs in Kansas?

Certified nurse aide salaries in Kansas are influenced by several factors such as experience, work environment, and geographic location. These variations help CNAs evaluate job options and strategically plan their career growth within the state. Exploring the average CNA salary in Kansas also reveals important pay trends and opportunities. Here are some key insights:

Average Hourly and Annual Pay: Certified nurse aide pay rates Kansas show CNAs earn between $16 and $18.56 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from roughly $33,000 to $39,000. The average sits near $35,000 annually, aligning well with both entry-level and experienced workers.
Pay Variation by Experience Level: Earnings typically grow with time on the job. New CNAs may start around $18.60 per hour, while those with over a decade of experience can command wages exceeding $22 per hour, reflecting the value of seasoned skills.
Differences Across Healthcare Facilities: Work settings shift compensation notably. Government roles offer some of the highest pay, followed closely by hospital positions. Nursing homes and assisted living communities provide mid-range salaries, while home healthcare tends to be on the lower end.
Regional Pay Trends Within Kansas: Salaries remain fairly consistent statewide, though cities like Overland Park and Wichita sometimes offer premium pay or overtime bonuses to attract skilled CNAs.
Additional Compensation Factors: Beyond base pay, overtime, shift differentials, bonuses, and hazard pay enhance total income. Evening and night shifts often add $1 to $3 per hour, making scheduling choices a way to increase earnings.

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How can CNAs in Kansas advance to higher nursing roles?

Many Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) in Kansas use their foundational healthcare experience as a stepping stone toward more advanced nursing careers. This career progression often requires additional education, certification, and clinical training to enhance job prospects and salary potential. Below are some common advancement paths available to CNAs in Kansas.

Certified Medication Aide (CMA): CNAs can become CMAs by completing a specialized training program focused on medication administration, involving extra coursework and clinical practice. This role offers increased responsibilities and typically leads to a modest salary boost.
Home Health Aide (HHA): Advancing to an HHA involves additional training centered on providing care in home settings. Although the salary increase is modest, HHAs benefit from flexible work environments including private homes and community organizations.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): CNAs can pursue a state-approved LPN program lasting 12 to 18 months. LPNs provide basic nursing care under supervision and usually see a significant salary increase along with strong job demand in Kansas.
Registered Nurse (RN): Becoming an RN requires completing an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in nursing over two to four years. This role allows for substantial salary growth and diverse employment opportunities in healthcare.

What do CNAs in Kansas say about their career?

Carlos: "Completing the certified nurse aide program at Wichita Medical Academy gave me a solid foundation and confidence I needed to begin my career in a local school. Working with children who require additional care has been incredibly rewarding, and I love being part of their growth and daily successes. The supportive community here in Kansas makes every day fulfilling, and the opportunity to positively impact young lives is what keeps me motivated. The job stability in this region is also a great benefit since it allows me to focus on developing my skills further."

Ayesha: "Finishing my CNA training at Topeka Health Institute empowered me to pursue a meaningful career in healthcare education. Starting as a certified nurse aide in a local school setting helped me connect with families and students, which has been deeply gratifying. I appreciate how the Kansas environment encourages community involvement, and through this role, I've grown not only professionally but personally as well. The chance to advance within healthcare is promising, and I feel proud to support the well-being of young people every day."

Liam: "Graduating from the Kansas City Nursing Academy opened doors for me to work as a certified nurse aide in an academic institution where I manage both medical and emotional needs of students. This career has challenged me to develop critical problem-solving skills and has enhanced my professional growth substantially. Kansas' unique rural and urban blend presents diverse experiences that keep my work dynamic and engaging. Being able to contribute positively to my community's health and seeing the direct impact of my efforts is incredibly fulfilling."

References

What to Do if Your Nursing License Renewal Application is Denied https://sangerlawoffice.com/what-to-do-if-your-nursing-license-renewal-application-is-denied-2/
Certified Nurse Aide - Flint Hills Technical College https://fhtc.edu/program/certified-nurse-aide/
$17-$60/hr Hospital Cna Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING) Oct 2025 https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Hospital-Cna/--in-Kansas
What Are the Free CNA Reciprocity States? | IntelyCare https://www.intelycare.com/career-advice/what-are-the-free-cna-reciprocity-states/
Endorsement Application | Kansas Nursing Board https://ksbn.kansas.gov/endorsement-application/
Application and Renewal Issues with Professional Licensing | Joseph Lento Law Firm https://www.professionallicensedefensellc.com/application-and-renewal-issues-with-professional-licensing
CNA, CMA & HHA | Short-Term Programs | WSU Tech https://wsutech.edu/short-term-health/
CNA (Certified Nurse Aide) Training Program - KANSASWORKS https://www.kansasworks.com/etp/public/institution_programs/5685
Pathways to Nursing| The University of Kansas Health System https://jobs.kansashealthsystem.com/pathways-to-nursing
Certified Nurses Aide (CNA) - Fort Hays Tech | Northwest https://www.fhnw.edu/academics/certification-courses/certified-nurses-aide

Other Things You Should Know About Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) License Education Requirements in Kansas

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

If your Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) license application is denied in Kansas, you will receive a formal notification explaining the reasons for the denial. Common grounds for denial include criminal background issues or incomplete application materials. You have the right to request a hearing to appeal the decision within a specified timeframe, allowing you to present evidence or clarify any misunderstandings. During this process, you cannot work as a CNA until the matter is resolved and your license is approved.

How do you renew an expired CNA license in Kansas?

Renewing an expired Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) license in Kansas requires submitting a renewal application to the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services along with the necessary fees. If the license has been expired for less than two years, the renewal process typically involves completing required continuing education and verifying recent work experience as a CNA. For licenses expired over two years, applicants may need to retake the competency exam before reinstatement.

How physically demanding is the CNA job in Kansas?

The job of a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Kansas is physically demanding, requiring stamina and strength for tasks such as lifting, transferring, and assisting patients with mobility. CNAs often spend long hours on their feet, performing repetitive motions that can be strenuous. Candidates should be prepared for the physical challenges of helping patients with daily activities while maintaining safety for both themselves and those they care for. This physical aspect is an important consideration for those pursuing CNA certification in Kansas.

Is there a demand for CNAs in Kansas?

There is a strong demand for Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) in Kansas, driven by the state's aging population and the growing need for quality long-term care. Healthcare facilities such as nursing homes, assisted living centers, and hospitals actively seek qualified CNAs to provide essential support to patients. This demand is expected to continue rising, offering ample job opportunities and stability for those who complete their CNA education and obtain licensure in Kansas. For individuals pursuing a career in healthcare, becoming a CNA in Kansas represents a promising and accessible entry point.