CNA Programs & Career Opportunities in Illinois
Illinois is home to 267 CNA training programs and over 1,390 healthcare facilities. Our guide currently highlights 162 cities, where we cover all local CNA programs and a selection of healthcare facilities. Explore CNA classes, salary information, and career opportunities to learn more about becoming a CNA in Illinois.
Get Information from CNA Programs in Illinois
- Major Cities for CNA Careers in Illinois
- Training & Certification Requirements in Illinois
- Explore CNA Classes by City in Illinois
- Free CNA Classes in Illinois
- Online CNA Classes in Illinois
- 4-Week CNA Classes in Illinois
- Evening Classes in Illinois
- Weekend Classes in Illinois
- Salary & Job Outlook as a CNA in Illinois
- Salary Overview by Area
- Frequently Asked Questions
Starting your CNA Career in Illinois
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Training Programs267State-approved Programs
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Cities162Cities Currently Covered
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Healthcare Facilities1,390+Total Facilities
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Median Annual Salary$39,510Median Yearly Pay
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Median Hourly Salary$18.99Median Per Hour
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Total CNAs Employed62,420CNAs Working Statewide
With around 270 state-approved CNA training programs, Illinois maintains a large and well-established nurse aide training network. Programs are widely available across major population centers including Chicago, Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, Rockford, and Springfield, as well as throughout suburban and downstate regions. Currently, approximately 62,420 Certified Nursing Assistants are employed throughout Illinois, reflecting consistent demand for qualified healthcare professionals. CNAs in Illinois earn a median annual wage of $39,510, or about $18.99 per hour, providing a stable entry point into the healthcare workforce.
With a population of over 12.7 million residents, Illinois maintains ongoing demand for skilled healthcare workers across both urban and regional healthcare systems. From major health systems such as Advocate Health, Northwestern Medicine, OSF HealthCare, Rush University System for Health, and University of Chicago Medicine to hundreds of hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies statewide, Certified Nursing Assistants play an essential role in supporting patient care across acute, post-acute, and community-based healthcare settings.
Get Information from CNA Programs in Illinois
Schools in Illinois are actively seeking qualified students. Fill out one quick form below to receive information directly from multiple accredited CNA programs.
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Major Cities for CNA Careers in Illinois
Explore CNA opportunities in Illinois's largest cities and metropolitan areas.
Training & Certification Requirements in Illinois
Before starting your training, it's important to know exactly what Illinois requires to become a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA). Meeting these standards ensures you're eligible to test, be placed on the state registry, and work in approved healthcare settings.
Eligibility
- Age requirement: Candidates must be at least 16 years old to enroll in an approved CNA training program in Illinois.
- Program enrollment (NATCEP): You must complete an Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)–approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP). Programs are offered through community colleges, high schools, regional career centers, and licensed long-term care facilities.
- Background check: Candidates must meet Illinois background screening requirements. Individuals with disqualifying convictions or substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of property are not eligible for placement on the Nurse Aide Registry.
- Good standing: Employers must verify active Nurse Aide Registry status prior to employment in licensed healthcare facilities.
Training Hours & Clinicals
Illinois requires a minimum of 120 total hours of nurse aide training. This includes at least 80 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of supervised clinical training in an IDPH-approved nursing facility. The curriculum covers all federally required OBRA topics, including communication, infection control, residents' rights, safety and emergency procedures, basic nursing skills, and personal care.
Before providing any direct resident care, trainees must complete at least 16 hours of instruction in core safety and care topics. In accordance with federal rules, Medicare- or Medicaid-certified nursing facilities may employ nurse aide trainees for up to 120 days while training and testing requirements are completed; beyond this period, individuals must be fully certified and listed on the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry.
Training Skills Evaluation & Written Competency Exam
During training, students must demonstrate competency in 21 performance skills as evaluated by program instructors or approved evaluators. Skills must be performed according to established standards, and students cannot apply for the written exam until successfully passing the performance skills evaluation within their training program.
After completing training and passing the skills evaluation, candidates must pass the Illinois Written Nurse Aide Competency Examination, administered by Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC) under contract with the Illinois Department of Public Health. The exam consists of:
- Written test: An 85 multiple-choice question exam covering nurse aide fundamentals such as infection control, safety, residents' rights, communication, and personal care. Candidates have 90 minutes to complete the exam. An oral version may be available for eligible candidates.
Candidates are allowed up to three attempts to pass the written competency examination within 12 months of completing their training program. Candidates who do not pass within the allowed attempts must complete a new IDPH-approved training program before retesting.
Placement on the Registry & Working as a CNA
Once the written exam is successfully passed, your name is added to the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry, maintained by IDPH. SIUC transmits test results electronically to the registry. You may then work as a CNA in nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, and other licensed healthcare settings throughout Illinois.
Renewal
Illinois CNA certification must be maintained through continuous employment. To remain active on the registry, CNAs must have performed at least 8 hours of paid nursing-related services under the supervision of a licensed nurse during any 24-month period. Individuals who do not provide nursing services for 24 consecutive months will have their certification become inactive and must recertify by retaking the written competency exam.
Reciprocity
Illinois allows registry-based reciprocity for CNAs certified in other U.S. states. Applicants must hold an active certification in good standing and provide verification that their training and competency evaluation met federal OBRA requirements. Out-of-state CNAs are not required to take the Illinois written competency exam if transferring an active, valid certification.
Costs
Illinois CNA exam fees are set by SIUC and are paid at the time of scheduling. Under federal law, Medicare- or Medicaid-certified nursing facilities must pay for or reimburse nurse aide training and testing costs for individuals they employ or have offered employment to, provided the individual is hired within 12 months of completing training.
Sources: Illinois Department of Public Health — Health Care Worker Registry, IDPH — CNA Facts and Requirements, Southern Illinois University Carbondale — Illinois Nurse Aide Testing, 42 CFR 483.152 — Federal Nurse Aide Training Requirements
Explore CNA Classes by City in Illinois
Explore CNA classes in Illinois by city. We currently feature 162 cities, each with a full list of CNA training courses, salary details, and selected healthcare facilities.
Free CNA Classes in Illinois
Looking for free CNA classes and training programs in Illinois? These 23 options are available at no cost through employer sponsorship, state support, or other
financial assistance.
For a complete guide to finding free CNA training, see our Free CNA Classes guide.
Mater Dei High School
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Central Community High School #71
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Apostolic Christian Home of Eureka
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Marshall Rehab and Nursing
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Southeastern Illinois College - White County Center
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Apostolic Christian Home
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Clinton Manor Living Center
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Southeastern Illinois College
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Plymouth Place CNA Academy
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Renaissance Care Center
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Online CNA Classes in Illinois
These 35 programs offer CNA classes online in Illinois, giving you the flexibility to complete the classroom portion remotely. However, all CNA programs also require in-person clinical training, which must be completed at an approved healthcare facility before certification.
Rend Lake College
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Kaskaskia College - Trenton Education Center
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Illinois Valley Community College
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Kaskaskia College - Vandalia Extension Center
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Oakview Nursing and Rehab
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Scott School of Careers
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Kaskaskia College Greenville Education Center
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Kaskaskia College
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Kaskaskia College Salem Education Center
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The Christian Village
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4-Week CNA Classes in Illinois
These 34 programs offer accelerated CNA training in Illinois, typically ranging from 3-5 weeks, with 4-week programs being the most common. Accelerated CNA classes are one of the fastest ways to become a CNA in Illinois, making them ideal if you want to start your healthcare career quickly.
Southwestern Illinois College - Red Bud Campus
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Heartland Community College - Woodlawn
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Lakeside Health Institute
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Scott School of Careers - South Holland
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Midwest Technical Institute - East Peoria
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East St. Louis Community College Center
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Blue Rock Training Center
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Blue Rock Training Center
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Excelsior Healthcare Academy
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Bimmab Healthcare Academy
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Evening Classes in Illinois
These 58 programs offer evening CNA classes in Illinois, designed for working professionals and those with daytime commitments. Evening classes typically run after 5 PM on weekdays, allowing you to maintain your current schedule while pursuing CNA certification.
Rend Lake College
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Kishwaukee College
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Illinois Valley Community College
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Wabash Valley College
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Frontier Community College
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Dominican University
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Scott School of Careers
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Olney Central College
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Triton College
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Lincoln Trail College
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Weekend Classes in Illinois
These 37 programs offer weekend CNA classes in Illinois, perfect for those who work Monday through Friday. Weekend programs typically meet on Saturdays and/or Sundays, allowing you to complete your CNA training without disrupting your weekday work schedule.
Wabash Valley College
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Frontier Community College
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Dominican University
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Scott School of Careers
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Olney Central College
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Lincoln Trail College
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Castor Health Institute
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Castor Health Institute
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Scott School of Careers - South Holland
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College of Lake County - Grayslake Campus
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Salary & Job Outlook as a CNA in Illinois
Illinois offers strong employment opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistants, supported by a large and diverse healthcare system across both urban and regional areas. With more than 62,420 CNAs working statewide and approximately 1,397 healthcare facilities, Illinois provides a wide range of employment settings across long-term care, hospital, and home health environments. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the state includes about 674 nursing homes, 195 hospitals, and 528 home health agencies that regularly employ CNAs. While CMS counts may not capture every licensed provider, they illustrate the scale and diversity of CNA job opportunities available throughout Illinois.
Salary Overview
The median annual income for all workers in Illinois is approximately $48,730, or $23.43 per hour. Certified Nursing Assistants in Illinois earn a median annual income of $39,510, or approximately $18.99 per hour. While CNA wages are below the statewide median for all occupations, they provide a reliable entry point into the healthcare field, with opportunities to gain experience and advance into higher-paying roles such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), or other allied health professions.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for CNAs in Illinois remains stable, supported by a large healthcare infrastructure and ongoing demand for long-term and post-acute care services. With 62,420 CNAs currently employed across hundreds of healthcare facilities, consistent hiring needs exist across both metropolitan and regional areas.
Employment opportunities are especially concentrated in major population centers such as the Chicago metropolitan area and surrounding suburbs, as well as regional hubs throughout the state. Major healthcare employers in Illinois—including Advocate Health, Northwestern Medicine, OSF HealthCare, Rush University System for Health, and University of Chicago Medicine—regularly hire CNAs across hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home health services. Workforce turnover, as many CNAs advance into nursing and other healthcare careers, contributes to steady entry-level job openings.
If you are considering this career path, explore our directory of CNA training programs in Illinois or learn more about certification and registry placement in our CNA License & Registration guide.
Why Become a CNA in Illinois?
Becoming a CNA in Illinois offers a practical and accessible pathway into the healthcare workforce. State-approved training programs can often be completed in a relatively short period, allowing individuals to begin working quickly. With more than 674 nursing homes, a large hospital network, and an extensive home health sector, CNAs in Illinois have access to a wide variety of work environments. The state's community colleges and training providers also make CNA certification a common first step toward advanced nursing education and long-term career growth.
CNA Salaries across Illinois
CNA wages in Illinois vary by region, with higher pay typically found in the Chicago metropolitan area and surrounding suburbs, and lower wages in more rural parts of the state. Factors such as facility type, local demand, and cost of living influence compensation levels. Below is a breakdown of CNA salaries across different regions of Illinois.
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS Nursing Homes, CMS Hospitals, CMS Home Health Agencies
CNA Salary by Area in Illinois
Compare CNA salaries across different metropolitan areas and regions in Illinois. Salary data includes both annual and hourly wages for nursing assistants.
| Area | Annual salary | Hourly salary |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois (statewide) | $39,510 | $18.99 |
| Bloomington | $37,090 | $17.83 |
| Carbondale-Marion | $36,700 | $17.64 |
| Champaign-Urbana | $37,680 | $18.11 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin | $41,600 | $20.00 |
| Danville | $37,430 | $17.99 |
| Decatur | $39,050 | $18.78 |
| Kankakee | $41,930 | $20.16 |
| Peoria | $36,930 | $17.76 |
| Rockford | $37,420 | $17.99 |
| Springfield | $37,270 | $17.92 |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Illinois
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Illinois?
In Illinois, CNA programs require a minimum of 120 hours of training, which includes 40 hours of clinical practice. Most students complete their training in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether they choose a full-time, part-time, or accelerated program schedule.
How much does CNA training cost in Illinois?
CNA classes in Illinois generally cost between $800 and $1,500. Some programs may be more expensive at private schools, while community colleges and healthcare providers often offer lower-cost options. Employers may also cover tuition in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there free CNA classes in Illinois?
Yes. Many nursing homes, hospitals, and state workforce programs in Illinois offer free CNA training. These are often employer-sponsored programs where you agree to work for the facility after completing training and certification.
Are online CNA programs available in Illinois?
Several schools in Illinois offer hybrid CNA programs that combine online coursework with in-person clinical training. While theory can often be completed online, state rules require that clinical skills be performed in a supervised, hands-on healthcare setting.
Are accelerated (4-week) CNA programs available in Illinois?
Yes, some schools and healthcare providers in Illinois offer accelerated CNA programs that can be completed in as little as 4 weeks. These programs are intensive and best for students who can commit to full-time study and clinical practice.
How do I become a CNA in Illinois?
To become a CNA in Illinois, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass the Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Examination (INACE), and be listed on the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry. The process is overseen by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH).
I’m a CNA in another state. Can I transfer my license to Illinois?
Yes. Illinois allows CNAs certified in other states to transfer their license through reciprocity. This process places you on the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry without retaking training. Learn more in our guide to CNA License Reciprocity in Illinois.
How often do I need to renew my CNA license in Illinois?
CNAs in Illinois must renew their certification every 24 months. To remain active on the registry, you must work at least one documented day (8 consecutive hours) of paid employment in an approved healthcare setting during that period. See our CNA License & Registration page for renewal details.
How can I check if my CNA license is active in Illinois?
You can verify your status on the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry online. For step-by-step instructions, visit our guide on CNA License & Registration in Illinois.
How much do CNAs earn in Illinois?
The median CNA salary in Illinois is $39,510 per year, or about $18.99 per hour. Pay can vary by region, employer, and years of experience. Many CNAs in Illinois also use the role as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Where do CNAs work in Illinois?
Certified Nursing Assistants in Illinois work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. Opportunities are widely available across both urban and rural areas.
Information Accuracy: Requirements, salary data, and other information are carefully compiled and based on the latest available sources, but may change. Please verify with official sources before making decisions. If you spot a mistake, let us know.