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

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Mississippi reports a growing demand for Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs), with employment expected to rise by 12% through 2030, reflecting the aging population and expanding healthcare needs. The state's average CNA salary of approximately $28,000 annually provides a solid entry point into healthcare careers. Pursuing a CNA license in Mississippi offers practical training combined with workforce opportunities across long-term care and medical facilities, making it a strategic choice for those entering healthcare.

This article examines the specific education requirements needed to obtain a CNA license in Mississippi. Developed by experts in career planning, it aims to guide prospective students by delivering clear, accurate information essential for meeting state-mandated standards and advancing their certification goals.

Key Things to Know About CNA License Education Requirements in Mississippi

Mississippi requires completion of a state-approved CNA training program with a minimum of 75 hours, including 16 hours of clinical practice to ensure hands-on experience.
CNA candidates must pass the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry exam, which includes both written and practical skills assessments, reflecting the state's 81% first-time pass rate.
Continuing education and renewal of the CNA license every two years are mandatory, aligning with Mississippi's efforts to maintain a skilled nursing workforce amid a 15% projected growth through 2030.

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

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

Formal education and training provide the foundation for Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) to deliver safe, effective care in Mississippi's healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. Adequate preparation ensures CNAs possess not only technical skills but also the ethical and practical knowledge required to support patient health and safety.

The following outlines the typical minimum education and training requirements for becoming a certified nurse aide in Mississippi.

Completion of a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Candidates must finish a nurse aide training program approved by the Mississippi State Department of Health. These programs meet federal and state standards and include at least 75 hours of combined classroom instruction and supervised clinical experience, ensuring comprehensive skill development essential for diverse care environments.
High School Diploma or GED: While not mandated by state law, many state-approved programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent such as a GED. This baseline education supports student success in mastering coursework and clinical practices and aligns with general eligibility criteria like being at least 18 years old.
Clinical Training Experience: Supervised clinical training is vital, allowing trainees to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world patient care settings. This hands-on practice focuses on infection control, safety protocols, and effective communication, helping CNAs develop competence crucial for healthcare team collaboration.
Successful Completion of the Certification Exam: Graduates must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP), which includes a written or oral exam and a practical skills test. A minimum score of 70% is required, and candidates have up to three attempts to demonstrate proficiency and earn certification.
Criminal Background Check and Physical Fitness: To protect patient safety and ensure job readiness, candidates undergo criminal background screening and must demonstrate the physical capacity to perform essential CNA duties, such as moving patients and responding quickly to emergencies.

Meeting these education requirements is critical for registration on the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry, a prerequisite for employment in state healthcare settings.

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What subjects are taught in CNA classes in Mississippi?

CNA training programs in Mississippi are carefully developed to equip students with the essential knowledge and practical skills necessary to deliver safe and effective patient care. These programs align with federal and state requirements, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for both the workforce and the state certification exam.

The following outlines the core subjects commonly taught as part of the CNA course curriculum in Mississippi.

Basic Nursing Skills: Students gain hands-on experience with vital clinical tasks such as measuring vital signs, assisting with hygiene, feeding, dressing, mobility, and toileting. Proficiency in these skills is fundamental to providing comprehensive daily care and supporting nursing staff.
Anatomy and Physiology: This subject introduces the human body's structure and functions, covering major organ systems and typical changes related to aging. Understanding body mechanics helps CNAs identify normal versus abnormal conditions and communicate effectively with healthcare teams.
Infection Control: Emphasizing prevention techniques, this subject covers hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and isolation precautions. Effective infection control is critical to minimizing healthcare-associated infections and protecting patients and staff.
Communication Techniques: Instruction includes verbal and non-verbal communication, proper documentation, and accurate reporting of patient information. These skills enhance teamwork and ensure compassionate care, especially for individuals with cognitive or sensory challenges.
Patient Safety Procedures: Training focuses on fall prevention, safe patient transfers, positioning, and emergency responses such as CPR. Recognizing environmental hazards and applying safety protocols are crucial to maintaining patient well-being in various care settings.

Personal Care Skills: CNAs learn to assist with daily living activities like oral care, grooming, toileting, and feeding. These skills support patient dignity and improve quality of life, particularly in long-term care environments.
Nutrition and Hydration: This area teaches dietary needs, meal planning, feeding techniques, and monitoring intake. Proper nutrition and hydration contribute significantly to patient recovery and chronic disease management.
Home Health and Homemaker Services: For those entering home care, training includes maintaining a clean and safe home environment, light housekeeping, and promoting client independence.
Legal and Ethical Responsibilities: CNAs learn about patient rights, confidentiality, mandatory reporting, and ethical care standards. This knowledge ensures care is delivered within legal and professional boundaries.
Special Care Procedures: Students receive instruction on handling diagnostic assistance, caring for patients with medical devices, and supporting post-surgical or rehabilitative needs, preparing them for complex clinical situations under nurse supervision.

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

Completing the Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) licensing process in Mississippi ensures that nurse aides meet defined professional and regulatory standards essential for delivering safe and effective patient care. This structured certification pathway upholds patient safety and strengthens the credibility of CNAs within the healthcare workforce.

Below are the key steps required to obtain a CNA license in Mississippi:

Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or GED. Physical fitness is often necessary to fulfill the job's physical demands, ensuring readiness for direct patient care roles.
Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: Candidates must finish at least 75 hours of instruction combining classroom and clinical practice. The curriculum covers infection control, basic nursing skills, and patient safety, typically completed within 9 to 16 weeks to align with federal standards.
Pass the CNA Competency Examination: Candidates take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, which includes a written or oral test plus a clinical skills evaluation. A minimum score of 70% is required, with up to three attempts permitted.
Undergo a Criminal Background Check: A mandatory background screening protects vulnerable populations and complies with state and federal regulations, ensuring trustworthiness in caregiving roles.
Apply for State Certification: Successful candidates submit an application to the Mississippi State Department of Health to be listed on the Nurse Aide Registry. Certification authorizes employment across healthcare settings statewide.
Maintain Certification Through Continuing Employment and Education: CNAs must complete at least 8 hours of nursing-related duties every 24 months to keep their certification active, supporting ongoing competency and compliance with federal requirements.

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

The total time required to become a licensed certified nurse aide (CNA) in Mississippi varies widely depending on factors such as the length of the training program chosen, availability and scheduling of certification exams, and the duration of state processing including background checks. These elements create a dynamic timeline, with some candidates navigating the steps swiftly while others face administrative or logistical delays.

Typically, CNA training programs in Mississippi demand a minimum of 75 hours, which includes 16 hours of clinical experience, and can be completed within four to eight weeks depending on full- or part-time enrollment. After training, candidates apply for the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam and usually receive Authorization to Test within about ten business days.

Exam availability varies by regional testing centers, but candidates generally receive their results on the same day they test. Upon passing both practical and written components, applicants move toward official placement on the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry.

Certification processing tends to be prompt, though background checks and administrative factors can extend the wait. Overall, most candidates complete the process in six to twelve weeks, though scheduling conflicts and extended application reviews may lengthen this timeframe.

When speaking with a certified nurse aide from Mississippi who graduated from a local training school, he reflected on his journey, emphasizing that the timeline can feel unpredictable.

He described the training as intensive but well-paced, noting that "the real challenge came after finishing classes-the waiting period for exam approval took longer than I expected." Scheduling the exam required flexibility, as test sites filled quickly.

After passing, he recounted, "waiting for final certification felt like its own hurdle because of background check clearance."

Despite the delays, he considered the experience valuable and advised prospective CNAs to remain patient and proactive in communicating with both their school and the state office to avoid unnecessary setbacks.

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

Renewing your certified nurse aide (CNA) license in Mississippi is a critical step for maintaining your legal certification, ensuring ongoing competency, and complying with state healthcare standards. Regular renewal helps healthcare providers maintain a qualified workforce and supports patient safety across the state.

Below are the essential details concerning how often to renew CNA license in Mississippi and the key requirements involved.

Renewal Frequency: CNA licenses in Mississippi must be renewed every two years, a biennial requirement that ensures nurse aides remain certified and eligible to work.
Renewal Deadline: Licenses must be renewed within 60 days before the expiration date to avoid inactive status, which would affect employment eligibility.
Renewal Fee: A $25 fee is required for renewal, payable online through the Mississippi TMU portal. This fee is non-refundable regardless of early or late renewal within the allowed period.
Minimum Work Requirement: Applicants must prove at least 8 hours of compensated nurse aide work within the previous 24 months. Acceptable evidence includes pay stubs, employer letters, or tax forms.
Renewal Process: Renewal is conducted online via the TMU portal where employment details and proof of work hours must be submitted alongside the payment.
Continuing Education: Mississippi does not mandate specific continuing education hours beyond the work requirement, though CNAs should stay updated with industry best practices and necessary training.
Inactive or Lapsed Status: Licenses lapsed for over two years or marked inactive require reactivation, which may include retaking the CNA competency exam before returning to work.
Registry Maintenance: It is crucial to keep contact and employment records up to date in the state registry to receive renewal notifications and maintain legal work status.

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What continuing education is required for CNAs in Mississippi?

Continuing education plays a critical role in maintaining CNA license renewal requirements Mississippi professionals must meet to provide safe, effective, and up-to-date patient care. These educational efforts ensure CNAs remain competent amidst evolving healthcare regulations and best practices.

Below are the key continuing education requirements for CNAs in Mississippi.

Required Hours: CNAs must complete a minimum of 12 hours of in-service or continuing education annually to stay active on the state Nurse Aide Registry. This mandate aligns with federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services standards, ensuring uniformity and quality in training.
Approved Training Topics: Courses should focus on subjects relevant to CNA duties, such as infection control, patient rights, communication skills, safety procedures, and current updates on state or federal regulations. Training topics can be customized by healthcare facilities to address specific patient care challenges or recent practice changes.
Acceptable Course Formats: Education can be delivered through in-person classes, online modules, or blended learning, offering flexibility to CNAs balancing work and study. Employers may provide onsite training or CNAs may pursue externally approved programs, including options like post FNP certifications, as long as courses meet state and federal requirements.
Recordkeeping Expectations: Both CNAs and employers must maintain precise documentation detailing the date, topic, hours completed, and provider. These records should be retained for at least three years and are subject to audit by the Mississippi State Department of Health to verify compliance.
Consequence of Non-Compliance: Failure to fulfill continuing education requirements can lead to removal from the Nurse Aide Registry. This removal renders CNAs ineligible for employment in state-licensed nursing or long-term care facilities until all criteria are satisfied and reinstatement is approved.

Are there additional certifications that can complement a CNA license in Mississippi?

Expanding beyond a CNA certification can open further career opportunities within Mississippi’s healthcare industry. CNAs may consider specialized credentials such as phlebotomy, EKG monitoring, or medical assisting to enhance their skill set and adapt to varied clinical environments. For professionals interested in bridging direct patient care with administrative support, exploring how to become a medical assistant in Mississippi offers a viable pathway. This strategic diversification supports career growth, better positioning CNAs to meet evolving industry demands without compromising their core caregiving expertise.

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

Mississippi permits certified nurse aides (CNAs) licensed in other states to transfer their credentials through a process called reciprocity or endorsement. To qualify, out-of-state CNAs must hold a current, active license in good standing without any restrictions.

The state requires verification of certification status directly from the original licensing agency, but unlike some states, Mississippi does not mandate additional background checks or fingerprinting specifically for reciprocity applicants.

If the certification has expired, the CNA must either retake the Mississippi competency exam or complete a state-approved training program before joining the Nurse Aide Registry.

The reciprocity process starts by requesting a Reciprocity Application Form via phone and submitting it along with a $26 fee and proof of current certification. Upon verification, no additional testing is typically necessary. Processing times vary, but it's wise to apply well before employment begins to accommodate any delays.

A certified nurse aide from Mississippi who graduated locally shared that while the process required patience, especially waiting on confirmation from the other state's registry, she found it manageable.

She noted, "It was reassuring that my previous certification was recognized without extra exams, though I had to stay persistent with follow-ups."

Her experience reflects both the straightforward and detail-oriented nature of transferring an out-of-state CNA license to Mississippi.

Which employers hire newly certified nurse aides in Mississippi?

Newly certified nurse aides in Mississippi have diverse employment opportunities across healthcare settings that deliver direct patient care and support licensed nursing staff. Entry-level CNAs remain in strong demand due to the continuous need for both long-term and acute care throughout the state, providing essential services that support patient wellbeing and operational efficiency.

Hospitals and Medical Centers: CNAs assist with personal care tasks such as dressing, bathing, and eating under nurse supervision. Facilities like AMG Specialty Hospital recruit new CNAs for full-time day and night shifts, offering experience in acute care and critical units like intensive care.
Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities: These employers provide structured environments where CNAs support residents' daily living activities, respond promptly to call lights, and deliver routine care. Nursing homes often attract new graduates due to their comprehensive benefit packages and clear supervision protocols.
Assisted Living Communities: CNAs help residents maintain independence and safety through assistance with daily activities and health monitoring. These positions focus on non-acute care needs under clinical supervision, making them suitable for new aides building foundational skills.
Home Health Agencies: CNAs provide personalized care in patients' homes, assisting with daily living and vital sign checks while fostering interpersonal skills. Working more independently, new CNAs develop confidence under remote nursing guidance.
Rehabilitation Centers: Employed CNAs support patients recovering from surgeries or illnesses by delivering basic nursing care and addressing psychosocial needs. These centers offer exposure to varied patient populations and recovery-focused care models that appeal to new aides.

What is the average salary for CNAs in Mississippi?

Certified nurse aide (CNA) salaries in Mississippi show considerable variation based on experience, work setting, and geographic location. These factors play a critical role in shaping earnings and affect how CNAs plan their careers and assess job opportunities throughout the state.

A clear understanding of these salary trends provides valuable insight for certified nursing assistant pay in Mississippi. Below are key salary insights for CNAs in Mississippi:

Average Hourly and Annual Pay: The average annual salary for CNAs in Mississippi is about $33,039, with hourly wages averaging around $17.23. However, pay ranges can vary widely, from $11.53 up to $17.98 per hour, depending on employer and region.
Pay Variation by Experience Level: Entry-level CNAs typically earn near the lower salary range, while those with extensive experience or specialized skills can reach salaries up to $39,707 annually. Top earners at the 90th percentile may earn as much as $46,879 per year.
Differences Across Healthcare Facilities: Employment setting influences salary, with hospitals generally paying more than nursing homes or assisted living facilities. This trend aligns with national data and affects compensation by several dollars per hour in Mississippi.
Regional Pay Trends within Mississippi: Urban areas such as Jackson or the Gulf Coast offer higher wages to offset living costs, whereas rural regions may offer lower salaries but sometimes provide incentives like sign-on bonuses or education support.
Additional Factors Influencing Earnings: Shift differentials for night or weekend work, overtime opportunities, and benefits like health insurance and paid time off can significantly impact overall compensation. Educational assistance programs may also enhance earning potential over time.

Those seeking career advancement may consider further education, such as pursuing an RN to MSN-FNP online program, which can open doors to higher-paying nursing roles beyond the CNA level.

How can CNAs in Mississippi advance to higher nursing roles?

Many certified nurse aides (CNAs) in Mississippi view their experience as a crucial foundation for advancing into higher nursing roles. Progressing in their careers generally requires additional education, certification, and clinical training, which together open doors to increased responsibilities and better compensation.

Below are common advancement paths available to CNAs aiming to elevate their nursing careers.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): CNAs must complete an accredited one-year LPN program involving classroom and clinical training, then pass the NCLEX-PN exam. LPNs can earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience and location, and take on patient care and medication administration under RN supervision.
Registered Nurse (RN): Becoming an RN requires earning an Associate's Degree in Nursing (2 years) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (4 years) and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. RN salaries exceed those of LPNs and CNAs, with programs costing between $10,000 and $100,000 depending on degree type.
Medication Aide or Restorative Aide: These positions require specialized certification completed in a few months, with training costs from $300 to $1,500. They offer modest salary increases and valuable experience in patient care and rehabilitation.
Lead Certified Nursing Assistant: Experienced CNAs with leadership training (costing $500 to $2,000) can oversee teams of CNAs, earning higher salaries in return for added administrative duties.
Medical Assistant (MA) or EKG Technician: Additional training allows CNAs to enter these roles, often completed within months to a year, providing diverse clinical environments and salary growth opportunities.

What Do CNAs in Mississippi Say About Their Career?

"Completing my certified nurse aide program at Magnolia Training Academy was a turning point in my life. The hands-on experience prepared me well for the demands of working with students in a local school, where I now help support their health and daily needs. It feels incredibly rewarding to contribute to a safe and nurturing environment for children in our community, especially here in Mississippi where resources can be limited. This career has given me a sense of purpose and belonging that I hadn't found before." Jasmine
"After finishing my CNA training at Delta Health Institute, I was eager to start my career in a local school setting. The job stability here in Mississippi gave me peace of mind while I developed my skills and confidence. Working with students every day is challenging but fulfilling, and I appreciate how this role has helped me grow professionally while making a meaningful difference in young lives. Mississippi's cultural richness also adds depth to my work, as I learn more about the families I serve." Marcus
"The professional development opportunities since I completed my program at Pine Belt Healthcare Academy have been incredible. My role as a certified nurse aide in a local school lets me advocate for student wellness and safety, which I'm passionate about. Mississippi's unique health challenges make my job both demanding and impactful, and I've grown personally by becoming more patient and empathetic. This career path is more than just a job; it's a chance to be part of a community's well-being and future." Keisha

References:

Certified Nursing Assistant https://www.eastms.edu/programs/workforce/certified-nursing-assistant.html
How to Become a CNA in Mississippi | Dreambound https://dreambound.com/blog/how-to-become-a-cna-in-mississippi
Mississippi Nurses CE Requirements, Accreditations & Approvals - NetCE https://www.netce.com/ce-requirements/nursing/ms/
Exploring Career Pathways: From Nurse Aide to Advanced Healthcare Roles - WeCareOnlineClasses https://wecareonlineclasses.com/exploring-career-pathways-from-nurse-aide-to-advanced-healthcare-roles/
CNA Classes & Certification | How to Become a CNA | Red Cross https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/lp/certified-nursing-assistant-nat
Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry Renewal Form https://www.printfriendly.com/document/mississippi-nurse-aide-registry-renewal-form
Renew or Verify a License - Mississippi State Department of Health https://msdh.ms.gov/page/30,0,82,353.html
CNA Certification MS | Getting a Mississippi CNA License https://www.cnaonlinecourse.com/mississippi-cna-certification
6 Reasons to Become a Sterile Processing Technician https://pmi.edu/blog/6-employment-settings-for-nursing-assistants/
Cna Salary in Mississippi: Hourly Rate (October, 2025) https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Cna-Salary--in-Mississippi

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

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

If your Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) license application is denied in Mississippi, it typically means you do not meet the state's required qualifications, such as failing the criminal background check or not completing the mandatory training program. Applicants have the right to appeal the decision by submitting a written request within a specified timeframe, during which they can provide additional evidence or clarification.

Until the appeal is resolved, you cannot legally work as a CNA in the state. In some cases, denial may require you to reapply after meeting certain conditions or waiting periods outlined by the Mississippi State Department of Health.

How do you renew an expired CNA license in Mississippi?

Renewing an expired Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) license in Mississippi requires timely action to maintain certification and continue working legally. If the license has been expired for more than two years, the individual must retake the CNA competency exam to reinstate their license. For those whose license has been expired for less than two years, renewal involves submitting a renewal application and completing required continuing education or nursing practice hours.

It is important to check with the Mississippi State Department of Health for specific forms, fees, and deadlines to ensure compliance and avoid any disruptions in employment.

How physically demanding is the CNA job in Mississippi?

The job of a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Mississippi is physically demanding, requiring strength and stamina to assist patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and mobility. CNAs often spend long hours on their feet, lifting or repositioning patients, which can be strenuous and requires proper body mechanics to prevent injury.

This role also involves frequent bending, standing, and walking throughout a healthcare facility, making physical endurance essential. Prospective CNAs should be prepared for the physical challenges inherent in providing hands-on patient care in Mississippi's healthcare settings.

Is there a demand for CNAs in Mississippi?

The demand for Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) in Mississippi remains strong due to the state's growing elderly population and expanding healthcare needs. Skilled CNAs are essential in nursing homes, hospitals, and long-term care facilities, where they provide critical support to patients and nursing staff.

With Mississippi facing a shortage of healthcare workers, job opportunities for CNAs are expected to increase, offering stability and growth potential for those entering the field. Prospective CNAs should be encouraged by the steady demand and the essential role they play within the healthcare system in Mississippi.