2026 Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) License Education Requirements in North Dakota

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North Dakota presents a promising landscape for Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs), with the healthcare sector expecting a 12% growth in CNA employment by 2030, surpassing the national average. This steady demand underlines the value of pursuing CNA licensure in the state, offering stability and meaningful career opportunities. However, prospective CNAs should consider variations in training quality and the evolving scope of practice while weighing this path.

This article examines the specific education requirements for obtaining a CNA license in North Dakota. Developed by experts in career planning, it aims to provide clear, accurate information to guide applicants through the process, helping them make informed decisions based on current standards and regulations. Understanding these criteria is essential for success in this vital healthcare role.

Key Things to Know About CNA License Education Requirements in North Dakota

North Dakota requires completion of a state-approved CNA training program with a minimum of 75 hours of instruction, blending classroom learning and clinical practice, ensuring practical preparedness.
The state mandates passing a competency exam post-training, which tests both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills, emphasizing patient safety and care standards.
Due to a growing elderly population, North Dakota's healthcare workforce demand increases the need for CNAs, making timely and comprehensive education crucial for job placement and career growth.

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

What are the education requirements to become a CNA in North Dakota?

Formal education and training form the foundation for Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) to deliver safe and competent patient care in North Dakota's healthcare environments. Comprehensive training equips CNAs with essential clinical skills as well as the ability to communicate effectively and collaborate within care teams, which is crucial given the state's increasing demand for qualified healthcare support staff. Navigating the CNA training requirements in North Dakota involves understanding the structured educational steps necessary for certification.

To clarify the typical minimum education and training requirements, consider the following key points:

State-Approved CNA Program North Dakota: Prospective CNAs must complete a state-approved training program consisting of at least 75 hours, including both theoretical lessons and clinical practice. This balance ensures trainees not only grasp the essential knowledge but also apply it through supervised hands-on patient care.
Clinical Training: Clinical instruction provides indispensable practical experience, often exceeding minimum standards. Careful supervision in approved healthcare settings allows trainees to develop confidence and competence in real-world patient interactions.
Eligibility Criteria: While a high school diploma or GED is not strictly required, candidates must generally be at least 16 years old and demonstrate sufficient reading and communication skills. In some cases, criminal background checks may affect eligibility, reflecting the importance of trustworthiness in healthcare roles.
Certification Exam: After training completion, candidates face the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program exam, which tests both knowledge and practical skills. Compliance with this certification process, including background verification, is mandatory for official CNA status.

Individuals researching career pathways may also investigate fields related to nursing, such as specialties that rank among the highest paid NPs, to understand broader healthcare opportunities.

What subjects are taught in CNA classes in North Dakota?

CNA training programs in North Dakota are carefully structured to provide students with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for delivering quality patient care. These programs emphasize preparing students to meet the demands of diverse healthcare environments by combining classroom instruction with hands-on experience. Below are the key subjects typically covered in North Dakota CNA class curriculum, which collectively support the development of competent and compassionate caregivers.

Basic Nursing Skills: This foundational subject teaches essential duties such as data collection, reporting, and basic patient care techniques. Mastery of these skills allows CNAs to effectively support nursing teams and contribute to patient monitoring and wellbeing.
Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the structure and function of the human body is crucial, even at a basic level. This knowledge helps CNAs recognize how illnesses or treatments affect patients, enhancing their ability to respond appropriately to care needs.
Infection Control: Effective prevention and management of infections are paramount in healthcare settings. This subject instills best practices that protect patients and staff by minimizing the spread of infectious diseases.
Communication Techniques: Clear and respectful communication is vital for patient safety and comfort. CNAs learn to use both verbal and non-verbal methods to interact empathetically with patients and collaborate efficiently with healthcare teams.
Patient Safety Procedures: Training includes proper patient handling, positioning, and emergency response protocols. These skills reduce the risk of injury and ensure a secure environment for vulnerable individuals.
Resident Rights: Students explore the legal and ethical frameworks that protect patient privacy, dignity, and autonomy, fostering respectful and lawful caregiving practices.
Care for Impaired Residents: This area focuses on adapting care for individuals with physical or cognitive impairments, emphasizing personalized support to meet unique patient needs.
Nutrition and Hydration: CNAs learn to recognize dietary requirements and assist with feeding, which plays a critical role in patient recovery and health maintenance.
Emergency Procedures: Basic life-saving skills such as CPR and first aid are taught to prepare CNAs for urgent situations. This training ensures they can respond confidently when immediate action is required.

Those exploring the path of CNA training programs in North Dakota might also benefit from understanding broader healthcare roles, such as the holistic nurse practitioner salary, to gauge potential career trajectories beyond the CNA scope.

Nursing assistants in home healthcare services

What steps are required to get a CNA license in North Dakota?

Completing the CNA licensing process in North Dakota ensures that individuals meet specific professional and state standards designed to maintain high-quality patient care. The process addresses both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, while also safeguarding vulnerable populations through strict eligibility and background checks. Below are the typical steps involved in obtaining a CNA license in North Dakota.

Eligibility Screening: Applicants must be at least 16 years old with basic reading and communication skills; a high school diploma is not mandatory. This step also includes reviewing any criminal history to determine if further evaluation or disqualification is necessary, protecting patient safety.
Enroll in a State-Approved Training Program: Completion of at least 75 hours of state-approved instruction, including 30 hours of classroom learning and 45 hours of supervised clinical practice, is required. Programs focus on patient care, infection control, and communication, with approval ensuring standardized quality.
Complete Health and Background Checks: Candidates must show proof of immunizations, pass a tuberculosis test, drug screening, and criminal background check prior to clinical training. These measures help reduce risks to patients and maintain a trustworthy workforce.
Pass the CNA Competency Exam: This exam evaluates both written knowledge and practical skills, requiring a minimum score of 75%. Candidates may retake the exam twice within two years to demonstrate proficiency.
Apply for State Certification and Registry Listing: After passing the exam and clearing all checks, applicants submit credentials to the North Dakota Department of Health. Successful candidates are listed in the Nurse Aide Registry, which is necessary for employment and ongoing oversight.

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

The total time required to obtain a certified nurse aide (CNA) license in North Dakota is influenced by several factors, including the length of the training program, exam scheduling availability, and the state's administrative processing times. These variables contribute to a timeline that can differ considerably between candidates, depending on how smoothly each stage proceeds. Delays in any part of the process can extend the overall duration beyond initial expectations.

Typically, CNA training programs in North Dakota consist of a federally mandated minimum of 75 instructional hours, with some programs blending online theory and in-person clinical sessions to offer flexible pacing. After training completion, candidates take a written and skills exam, with results generally returned within one to two weeks. Following successful examination, applicants undergo a criminal background check, which alone can take up to two weeks to be processed.

The state then requires additional processing time of roughly one to two weeks to finalize licensure, provided all documentation is complete and accurate. While many candidates complete the entire process within six to ten weeks, some encounter setbacks due to limited test site availability or delays in background checks, especially in less populated areas, which can prolong the timeline.

When speaking with a certified nurse aide from North Dakota who completed their training at a local college, they described the path as a blend of anticipation and logistical hurdles. "The coursework flew by, but scheduling the skills exam took longer than I expected because of limited slots," they recounted.

They also noted the waiting period after submitting their license application was a "time of cautious optimism," marked by frequent status checks and the occasional call to the board for updates. Ultimately, they reflected that while the process was longer than initially hoped, the patience required helped them appreciate the significance of each step toward becoming licensed.

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

Renewing a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) license in North Dakota is a critical step in maintaining professional certification, ensuring ongoing competency, and meeting state healthcare standards. Renewal helps confirm that CNAs remain actively engaged in their roles and adhere to current requirements that promote safe and effective patient care. Below are the essential aspects of the North Dakota CNA certification renewal requirements.

Renewal Frequency: CNAs in North Dakota must renew their certification every two years, a timeframe designed to balance regulatory oversight with professionals' practical schedules, ensuring they keep up with evolving industry standards.
Renewal Deadlines: Each CNA's certification has an individual expiration date listed on the North Dakota Nurse Aide Registry. It is the CNA's responsibility to renew before this date to avoid certification lapses that could impede the ability to work legally.
Renewal Fee: Unlike many states, North Dakota does not charge a fee for renewing a CNA license if completed prior to expiration, which reduces financial barriers for maintaining certification. However, if renewal is delayed beyond the expiration, additional steps may be required.
Work Requirements for Renewal: To be eligible, CNAs must document at least 8 hours of paid nursing or related services under licensed nurse supervision within the past 24 months. This rule encourages continuous practical experience rather than relying solely on theoretical knowledge, enhancing workforce reliability.
Continuing Education: North Dakota does not currently mandate continuing education hours for CNA license renewal, focusing instead on verified work experience as the key measure of ongoing competency, which may differ from other states' approaches.

For individuals exploring advanced nursing pathways, supplementing CNA experience with further education may be valuable; detailed information can be found through rankings of the best adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner programs, providing a credible guide for those considering career progression beyond CNA certification.

What continuing education is required for CNAs in North Dakota?

Continuing education plays a vital role for CNAs in North Dakota by helping maintain professional competence and adapt to evolving healthcare standards. It supports high-quality patient care and enhances skills critical for safe and effective nursing assistant duties. Recognizing these benefits, CNAs should be aware of how continuing education integrates with renewal and certification processes in the state. The key requirements include the following:

Mandatory Continuing Education Hours: North Dakota currently does not enforce a specific number of continuing education hours for CNAs. Unlike LPNs and RNs who must complete 12 contact hours biennially, CNAs' renewal focuses on employment verification rather than CE hour submission, reflecting a distinctive approach in the state's regulatory framework.
Approved Training Topics: Though topics are not explicitly mandated, CNAs are expected to stay informed on essentials such as infection control, patient rights, communication, and safety. Employers often supplement this by requiring additional in-service training as part of workplace standards.
Course Formats: Continuing education for CNAs in North Dakota accepts both online and in-person formats, provided the content is pertinent to nursing assistant responsibilities. This flexibility accommodates different learning preferences and logistical considerations.
Recordkeeping Expectations: While the state does not demand submission of CE documentation, CNAs are responsible for maintaining their own records of any training completed. This practice supports individual accountability and readiness if verification is needed for employment or registry status.
Registry and Renewal Criteria: Renewal requires CNAs to work in a nursing-related role at least once every 24 months to remain on the registry. Inactivity may lead to requalification steps rather than CE hour accumulation, highlighting a practical focus on active service in renewal policy.

For those seeking to expand their credentials beyond CNA continuing education requirements North Dakota offers, exploring accredited advanced programs can be beneficial. Resources such as the ranking of the best online MSN to FNP programs provide a valuable pathway for career progression in nursing.

Can out-of-state CNAs transfer their license to North Dakota?

North Dakota allows certified nurse aides (CNAs) licensed in other states to transfer their certification through a process called endorsement or reciprocity. To qualify, CNAs must hold an active license in good standing from their original state and have verification of their certification.

Unlike some states, North Dakota does not require additional background checks like fingerprinting or extra state exams, simplifying the transition for out-of-state CNAs. However, applicants must complete a detailed verification process to confirm their credentials meet federal registry standards and state requirements.

The transfer process involves submitting an online application to the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services. There is no application fee, making it cost-effective, but applicants must provide proof of all certifications held, prioritizing their current license.

Processing times vary, typically taking a few weeks depending on verification speed. Once approved, CNAs must follow North Dakota's renewal policies to maintain active status.

When speaking with a certified nurse aide from North Dakota who graduated locally, she reflected on her peers relocating from other states. She noted, "Many expressed relief that the process didn't require retaking exams or fingerprinting, which often adds stress."

Yet, she acknowledged how waiting for verification could be frustrating at times but emphasized that the streamlined, fee-free endorsement made it "worth the wait" and helped many colleagues join the workforce smoothly. Her perspective highlights the balance between practical requirements and the emotional nuances faced by out-of-state CNAs transferring their licenses.

Which employers hire newly certified nurse aides in North Dakota?

Newly certified nurse aides in North Dakota can find employment in a variety of healthcare settings that deliver direct patient care and support to licensed nurses. Entry-level CNAs remain in steady demand across several facility types due to the ongoing need for quality care in both long-term and acute settings.

Hospitals: CNAs assist with patient care in medical and surgical units, working closely with registered nurses to monitor patient conditions and support daily living activities. Hospitals often hire new CNAs because these roles provide essential support and valuable experience in fast-paced, acute care environments.
Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities: CNAs in these settings provide ongoing personal care, mobility assistance, hygiene support, and emotional care to elderly or disabled residents. Due to high demand for long-term care and regulatory staffing requirements, these facilities frequently recruit newly certified CNAs.
Assisted Living Communities: Here, CNAs help residents maintain independence by assisting with medication reminders, daily hygiene, and mobility. These communities tend to hire new CNAs as the work is less medically intensive, making it accessible for recent graduates.
Home Health Agencies: CNAs provide care in clients' homes, assisting with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and light housekeeping under nursing supervision. Growing demand for in-home care, especially in rural areas, leads agencies to hire newly certified CNAs regularly.
Rehabilitation Centers: CNAs support patients undergoing therapy by assisting with transfers, personal care, and monitoring progress. These centers value new CNAs for hands-on patient assistance during recovery periods.

What is the average salary for CNAs in North Dakota?

CNA salary in North Dakota varies notably depending on factors such as experience, healthcare setting, and geographic region. These variations underscore the importance for individuals to carefully consider where they seek employment and how their career might evolve over time. Understanding average CNA pay in North Dakota helps workers make strategic decisions about gaining skills or certifications and selecting workplaces to maximize their earning potential. Below are key insights into the current salary landscape for certified nurse aides in the state.

Average Hourly and Annual Pay: Certified nurse aides in North Dakota typically earn between $16.50 and $21.23 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $31,205 to $37,507. The median annual salary stands near $34,058, which is slightly below the national average but competitive within the region.
Pay Variation by Experience Level: While North Dakota-specific data is limited, national trends show clear wage growth with experience. CNAs new to the field average about $18.63 hourly, increasing to $22.39 per hour for those with over ten years of service. This pattern suggests the state likely rewards tenure and expertise similarly.
Differences Across Healthcare Facilities: Employment in hospitals generally offers higher compensation compared to nursing homes or home health agencies. Nationally, hospital CNAs make around $40,170 annually, compared to slightly lower figures at nursing care and retirement facilities, indicating workplace choice can influence pay significantly.
Regional Pay Trends Within North Dakota: Pay varies by location, with urban areas and those with higher healthcare demand often offering greater wages. Prospective CNAs should examine local job openings and surveys since salaries can differ markedly across cities and regions.
Additional Factors Influencing Earnings: Overtime, shift differentials, bonuses, and specialized certifications like medication aide roles can boost income. Career advancement into roles such as Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse also results in notable salary increases. Examining the physician assistant salary vs nurse data may provide insight into pathways beyond CNA roles.

How can CNAs in North Dakota advance to higher nursing roles?

Many certified nurse aides (CNAs) in North Dakota leverage their foundational healthcare experience as a stepping stone toward more advanced nursing roles. While their hands-on patient care skills provide an essential base, progressing in the nursing field typically demands additional education, certification, and clinical training.

This combination of practical experience and formal qualifications is critical for successfully navigating career advancement. Below are common pathways CNAs may pursue to elevate their nursing careers.

Restorative Aide or Medication Aide: This role requires specialized certification and exam completion, usually after a few months of training costing between $300 and $1,500. It offers CNAs a chance to expand their skill set without committing to lengthy programs, often increasing responsibilities and earning potential.
Lead Certified Nursing Assistant: Typically requiring significant experience or leadership training costing $500 to $2,000, this supervisory position involves managing other CNAs and ensuring quality patient care in healthcare facilities.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN): Completion of an accredited one-year program and passing the NCLEX-PN exam, with training costs ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, qualifies CNAs for direct patient care roles with increased responsibilities and salaries.
Registered Nurse (RN): Advancing to RN status involves earning an ADN or BSN degree and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Training can take 2 to 4 years and cost anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000, reflecting a significant investment for substantially higher clinical roles and compensation.

Can CNAs Transition to Medical Assistant Roles in North Dakota?

CNAs wishing to broaden their scope within the healthcare field can explore pathways that leverage their foundational skills for roles such as medical assistants. Transitioning to a medical assistant role may provide exposure to administrative tasks along with expanded clinical responsibilities, offering an opportunity for career diversification and access to different work environments. Interested professionals can assess online training options and certification programs that build on existing CNA expertise while meeting industry-specific standards. For guidance on diversifying your career, check out how to become a medical assistant in North Dakota.

What do CNAs in North Dakota say about their career?

Tyrell: "Completing the certified nurse aide program at Bismarck Career Academy was a turning point in my life. The training prepared me thoroughly, and starting my career at a local school gave me a real sense of purpose as I helped support students' health and well-being every day. North Dakota's close-knit communities made it easy to form meaningful connections, which has been incredibly rewarding. This role has allowed me to grow both professionally and personally, and I feel lucky to contribute positively to my community. My passion for helping young people thrive only grows stronger with each experience."

Ayesha: "Pursuing my CNA certification through Minot State's program gave me the technical skills and confidence I needed to start working in a school environment. North Dakota's unique rural setting presented some challenges, but it also provided distinct opportunities to impact the lives of students in meaningful ways. Being part of an academic setting, I've seen firsthand how my role supports children not just medically but emotionally as well. This career has given me stability and a clear path for future advancement in healthcare. It's fulfilling to know my work truly matters every day."

Daniel: "After finishing the program at Jamestown Community College, I began working as a certified nurse aide in a local school, where I immediately felt the significance of my contribution. North Dakota's environment, with its seasonal shifts and growing communities, has shaped my experience uniquely. This career has pushed me to develop professionally and has also expanded my empathy and patience. Watching students flourish and knowing I've played a part in their support system brings a deep satisfaction that's hard to describe. I'm proud to be part of a profession that offers both personal fulfillment and career growth."

References

CNA Frequently Asked Questions - North Dakota State College of ScienceNorth Dakota State College of Science https://ndscs.edu/academics/trainnd-southeast/certified-nursing-assistant-cna/cna-frequently-asked-questions/
Certified Nurse Aide – Career and Advising Center – North Dakota State University https://career-advising.ndsu.edu/jobs/americare-senior-living-certified-nurse-aide/
Cna Salary in North Dakota: Hourly Rate (October, 2025) https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Cna-Salary--in-North-Dakota
Im being denied my CNA Licence because of a misdemeanor of theft - Legal Answers https://www.avvo.com/legal-answers/im-being-denied-my-cna-licence-because-of-a-misdem-1763995.html
UAP MAIII Renewal – ND Board of Nursing https://www.ndbon.org/uap-maiii/uap-maiii-renewal/
Certified Nursing Assistant Jobs in North Dakota (Hiring Now!) - Zippia https://www.zippia.com/certified-nursing-assistant-north-dakota-jobs/
Certified Nurse Aide Endorsement Application - ND Health & Human Services https://services.ndhhs.gov/nurseaide/lic/cna/apply/
North Dakota CEU Requirements | CEUfast https://ceufast.com/staterequirements/northdakota
CNA License Renewal Guide – Clipboard (Professional) https://workers.clipboardhealth.com/hc/en-us/articles/32804421847703-CNA-License-Renewal-Guide

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

What happens if your CNA license application is denied in North Dakota?

If your Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) license application is denied in North Dakota, you will receive a written notice explaining the reasons for the denial, which may include issues like incomplete documentation, failure to meet the eligibility criteria, or a disqualifying criminal record. You have the right to request a hearing within a specified timeframe to contest the decision and provide additional information or clarification. Until the denial is resolved, you cannot legally work as a CNA in the state. It is important to carefully review the denial notice and take prompt action to address any deficiencies or concerns raised by the licensing board.

How do you renew an expired CNA license in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, renewing an expired Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) license involves contacting the North Dakota Department of Health to determine if the license can be reinstated or if reapplication is necessary. Typically, if the license has been expired for more than three years, the individual must complete the certification process again, including training and testing. For licenses expired less than three years, submitting a renewal application along with the required fee and proof of continuing education or work experience may suffice. It is important to act promptly to avoid additional requirements and ensure compliance with state regulations.

How physically demanding is the CNA job in North Dakota?

The job of a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in North Dakota is physically demanding, requiring stamina and strength to assist patients with daily activities such as lifting, transferring, and repositioning. CNAs often spend long hours on their feet, performing repetitive tasks that can be taxing on the back and joints. Due to the hands-on nature of the work, individuals interested in this career should be prepared for consistent physical effort and a fast-paced environment. This aspect is important to consider alongside the education and certification requirements when deciding to pursue a CNA license in North Dakota.

Is there a demand for CNAs in North Dakota?

The demand for Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) in North Dakota remains strong due to the state's growing elderly population and increasing healthcare needs. Many long-term care facilities, hospitals, and home health agencies are actively seeking qualified CNAs to provide essential patient care and support. This steady demand makes obtaining CNA certification an excellent entry point into the healthcare field with promising job stability and opportunities for advancement. Aspiring CNAs in North Dakota should be encouraged by the positive employment outlook when pursuing their license and education requirements.