Tennessee is home to 285 CNA training programs and over 550 healthcare facilities. Our guide currently highlights 142 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 Tennessee.
With close to 300 CNA training programs statewide, Tennessee offers a wide range of educational opportunities in major metropolitan areas such as Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Clarksville, and Murfreesboro. Currently, about 23,150 Certified Nursing Assistants work across Tennessee, reflecting steady demand for skilled healthcare professionals. Students completing Tennessee CNA programs can expect median earnings of 35,040 annually and 16.85 per hour.
With a population of over 7.2 million residents and a rapidly expanding healthcare sector, Tennessee continues to provide strong career opportunities for CNA training graduates. From leading healthcare systems such as Vanderbilt University Medical Center, HCA Healthcare, and Baptist Memorial Health Care to hundreds of long-term care, rehabilitation, and home health facilities statewide, Certified Nursing Assistants play a critical role in supporting patient care across the state's urban centers, suburban communities, and rural areas.
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Major Cities for CNA Careers in Tennessee
Explore CNA opportunities in Tennessee's largest cities and metropolitan areas.
Training & Certification Requirements in Tennessee
Before you enroll, it helps to understand exactly what Tennessee requires to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Meeting these standards ensures you're eligible to test, be placed on the state registry, and work in approved healthcare settings.
Eligibility
Program enrollment (NATCEP): You must complete a Tennessee Department of Health (TDH)–approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP). Programs are offered through high schools, community colleges, vocational centers, and long-term care facilities across the state. Each program must meet federal OBRA requirements and state regulations under Rule 1200-08-06.
Background check: All candidates must complete a criminal background check before having direct patient contact. Nursing facilities must verify that an applicant has no disqualifying findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation listed on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry or any other state's registry before employment.
Training Hours & Clinicals
Tennessee requires a minimum of 75 total hours of combined classroom, laboratory, and clinical instruction. Programs must include at least 16 hours of classroom instruction before students can have any direct contact with residents. Required topics include communication, infection control, residents' rights, safety and emergency procedures (including the Heimlich maneuver), and promoting residents' independence and dignity. Clinical training must take place in a state-licensed long-term care facility under the supervision of an approved registered nurse instructor.
Certification Exam (Competency Evaluation)
After completing your training program, you must pass both parts of the Tennessee Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation, administered by D&SDT–HEADMASTER on behalf of the Tennessee Department of Health:
Knowledge test: 75 multiple-choice questions, available in written or oral format. The oral version is available in English and Spanish.
Skills evaluation: a timed demonstration of five randomly selected nurse aide skills, including mandatory hand hygiene and at least one measurement task (e.g., recording temperature or blood pressure).
You must pass both exam components to become certified. Candidates have up to three attempts per section within 24 months of completing training. Those who do not pass within this time must retrain in an approved program before retesting.
Placement on the Registry & Working as a CNA
Once you pass both exam components, your name is added to the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry, maintained by the Tennessee Department of Health's Office of Health Care Facilities. Employers must verify your active status before hiring. Under federal law, a nursing facility may employ a trainee for up to 120 days while they complete the certification process, provided they are enrolled in or have completed an approved training program.
Renewal & In-Service Requirements
Your Tennessee CNA certification must be renewed every 24 months. To remain active, you must have performed at least 8 hours of paid nursing or nursing-related duties under the supervision of a licensed nurse within the last two years. CNAs employed in Medicare- or Medicaid-certified facilities must also complete regular in-service training provided by their employer, totaling at least 12 hours per year. Renewal is free of charge, but employers must verify your employment to the state.
Reciprocity (Out-of-State CNAs)
If you are certified as a CNA in another U.S. state or territory and your certification is in active, good standing, you may apply for reciprocity to be added to the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry without retraining or retesting. Applicants must complete the Out-of-State Verification Form and provide documentation of certification and employment. Reciprocity applications are processed through the Tennessee Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry Unit.
Costs & Reimbursement
Exam fees are set by D&SDT–HEADMASTER and are typically paid at the time of scheduling. Under federal law, if you are employed by—or receive an offer from—a Medicare- or Medicaid-certified nursing facility at the time of training, the facility must cover your training and testing costs. If you are hired within 12 months of completing training, the facility must reimburse you on a prorated basis for those expenses.
Explore CNA classes in Tennessee by city. We currently feature 142 cities, each with a full list of CNA training courses, salary details, and selected healthcare facilities.
Looking for free CNA classes and training programs in Tennessee? These 54 options are available at no cost through employer sponsorship, state support, or other financial assistance.
Beech Tree offers a paid CNA training program for employees using a state-approved curriculum completed in about 3 weeks; some portions may be online. Graduates earn CNA status and a pay increase within the facility.
Norris Health & Rehabilitation offers paid, state-approved CNA training for employees, with on-the-job and sometimes online instruction and free tuition.
Willow Ridge Center offers a paid Nurse Aide Training program with weekday daytime classes. Genesis covers approved tuition and training fees for hired participants during training.
Ballad Health Academy partners with TCATs and Ballad Health to let students earn the CNA credential through free in-person or hybrid classes. The Ballad CNA course includes 60 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours with day and evening options.
NHC offers free Certified Nursing Assistant training with an employment pathway at NHC centers, including Smithville. Interested applicants can select NHC HealthCare Smithville when inquiring about CNA classes.
NHC offers free employer-sponsored CNA training with flexible scheduling at participating centers; contact NHC HealthCare Sequatchie for upcoming class availability. Training prepares entry-level caregivers for work in long-term and post-acute settings.
Ballad Health offers free CNA training in Northeast Tennessee with in-person and online/hybrid options; the course includes 60 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours, and Ballad covers exam costs. Classes are offered on daytime, evening, weekend, part-time, and full-time schedules depending on the cohort.
NHC offers a free Certified Nurse Assistant training program with flexible schedules through its CNA Training Program; applicants can select the Pulaski center. Training is employer-sponsored with pathways to CNA employment at NHC centers.
Henry County Healthcare Center announced a free 120‑hour Certified Nurse Aide training course; applicants must complete a background check and drug screening prior to enrollment. The center also notes current CNA job opportunities.
NHC HealthCare Milan offers a free, employer-sponsored CNA training class delivered in a fast-paced, two-week daytime schedule. Employment opportunities may be available upon successful completion.
NHC HealthCare McMinnville advertises a free, accelerated CNA training class of about 10–12 days. Graduates may apply for employment at the center after successful completion.
River Grove Health and Rehabilitation has advertised a Hospitality Aide (CNA Class) role indicating an earn-while-you-learn pathway to become a CNA. Contact the facility for current class availability and enrollment steps.
Life Care Center of Rhea County recruits Nurse Aide in Training candidates and provides paid CNA classes with textbooks, supplies, and a uniform included.
Ivy Hall offers free CNA classes at the facility with day and evening cohorts. Training includes classroom and clinical instruction on-site; seats are limited and applications are taken by the facility.
Good Samaritan Society offers paid CNA training with all education costs covered, using a hybrid format with online coursework and on-site skills/practicum at the facility. Trainees are hired into NA trainee roles and complete approximately 58 hours online plus 24 hours hands-on.
NHC Athens offers a free, state‑approved 17‑day CNA training held Monday–Friday 8:00–4:30 with a refundable 50 book deposit. Graduates may be considered for employment at the center.
NHC HealthCare, Springfield participates in NHC’s free CNA training program with flexible schedules. Interested applicants can request details through NHC’s CNA Program contact form.
NHC HealthCare Tullahoma offers a free, state-certified CNA training program completed in 3 weeks with weekday daytime classes. Graduates are eligible to apply for full-time CNA roles at the center.
NHC offers a free Certified Nursing Assistant training program with flexible schedules and multiple employment options across its centers. Interested applicants can inquire through NHC’s CNA page for local class availability.
CareRite Centers operates a free, train-to-hire Nurse Aide Training Program in Nashville with day classes over 3 weeks; graduates commit to one year of full-time employment at a CareRite center such as Trevecca. Classes are held at the Nashville Health Career Center.
NHC HealthCare Murfreesboro offers a free, three-week, state-certified CNA training program held Monday–Friday 7am–3pm designed to prepare students for immediate employment at the center. Graduates are eligible for full-time roles upon completion.
CareRite’s Nashville Health Career Center runs a free, train‑to‑hire CNA program held Monday–Friday 7am–3pm for three weeks at 832 Wedgewood Ave. Participants sign a one‑year full‑time work agreement with a CareRite center after certification.
The Health Center at AdamsPlace runs a free, state‑certified CNA training program lasting 3 weeks, held Monday–Friday from 7am to 3pm, with potential eligibility for full‑time employment after completion.
Goodwill Industries–Knoxville offers a CNA program in Morristown with daytime classes over approximately 6.5 weeks, including classroom instruction and about two weeks of clinicals. Tuition is 600 with a 140 exam fee, and many students qualify for funding (including SNAP E&T).
NHC HealthCare Fort Sanders participates in NHC’s free CNA training program, providing classroom and clinical preparation for entry-level caregiver roles. Interested applicants can inquire through NHC’s CNA training page or the center.
NHC HealthCare Knoxville offers free CNA training through NHC, combining classroom instruction and supervised practice at the center. Candidates can connect via NHC’s CNA training page to learn about upcoming cohorts.
NHC offers free Certified Nursing Assistant training with classroom and hands-on instruction. Daytime cohorts run on a rapid schedule with employment opportunities at NHC centers.
NHC Place Farragut hosts a free, accelerated CNA training class at its Cavette Hill campus. Recent listings advertise a 19-day, Monday–Friday daytime schedule with employment opportunities upon completion.
Holston Health & Rehabilitation Center offers a free, employer-sponsored CNA training class completed in 17 days, held Monday–Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. A refundable books and supplies deposit may be required and qualified graduates may be considered for facility employment.
Hillcrest Healthcare offers an in-house Certified Nursing Assistant program with free certifications and career development opportunities for employees. Training availability may vary by location; inquire with Island Home for current class schedules.
Goodwill Knoxville’s CNA program runs weekdays 8:30 AM–2:00 PM for 6.5 weeks with about two weeks of clinicals; tuition is 600 and the NAT exam fee is 140. Financial assistance is widely available, with SNAP E&T able to cover full costs for eligible students, and classes include resume support and employer recruiting events.
NHC offers a free Certified Nursing Assistant training program and accepts inquiries for classes through its CNA Program portal. Prospective students can select the Kingsport center when requesting information.
Hillcrest Healthcare offers a CNA program delivered through The Mason Center for Healthcare Education that includes classroom, lab, and clinical training. Hillcrest employees may have CNA tuition covered when committing to work with the organization.
NHC offers free, accelerated CNA training with two weeks of classroom at the NHC HealthCare Training Center in Bristol followed by one week of clinicals at NHC HealthCare Johnson City. Employment opportunities may be available after completion.
NHC HealthCare Franklin offers free employer-sponsored CNA classes that are fast-paced (about two weeks) with the opportunity to apply for employment after completion. Training details and interest are handled through NHC’s CNA program pages and postings.
NHC Place at Cool Springs offers free, employer-sponsored CNA training using a hybrid online and in-person format tied to employment. Applicants are hired into a Nursing Assistant role and complete the Red Cross CNA course as part of onboarding.
NHC offers free, employer-sponsored CNA training with flexible schedules through its CNA program; NHC Place Sumner is a participating center listed for CNA program inquiries.
NHC Dickson offers a free, state-certified nurse aide training program completed in a short, accelerated timeframe with weekday daytime classes; graduates may apply for employment at the center.
Free four-week CNA training held on-site Monday–Friday 8:30am–3:00pm with classroom and clinical instruction. Graduates who earn certification are eligible to apply for positions at the facility.
NHC advertises free employer-sponsored CNA training with flexible schedules; interested applicants can inquire about classes offered at the Columbia center.
NHC offers free employer-sponsored CNA training; prospective students can inquire about class availability at the Maury Regional Transitional Care Center.
NHC HealthCare Cookeville offers a free, employer-sponsored CNA training program held onsite to prepare new hires for patient care roles. Applicants apply directly to NHC for upcoming classes.
Signature HealthCARE of Putnam County periodically offers paid CNA classes in Cookeville, allowing trainees to earn while completing facility-based nurse aide training.
UTC’s state-accredited CNA Academy is a five-week, 123-hour in-person course including classroom, lab, clinical training, CPR, exam fee, materials, and scrubs. Employer sponsorships are available that pay full tuition and guarantee full-time employment with the sponsor.
Chattanooga State and Orange Grove Center run a two-week CNA training program on Orange Grove’s campus that combines classroom and experiential learning.
NHC offers a free CNA training program with flexible schedules at select centers; applicants can choose NHC HealthCare Chattanooga as their training site.
Ballad Health Academy with TCAT partners enables Tennessee High students to earn the CNA credential through free in-person or hybrid training. The Ballad CNA course includes 60 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours with day and evening options.
These 12 programs offer CNA classes online in Tennessee, 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.
Beech Tree offers a paid CNA training program for employees using a state-approved curriculum completed in about 3 weeks; some portions may be online. Graduates earn CNA status and a pay increase within the facility.
Norris Health & Rehabilitation offers paid, state-approved CNA training for employees, with on-the-job and sometimes online instruction and free tuition.
Ballad Health Academy partners with TCATs and Ballad Health to let students earn the CNA credential through free in-person or hybrid classes. The Ballad CNA course includes 60 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours with day and evening options.
Ballad Health offers free CNA training in Northeast Tennessee with in-person and online/hybrid options; the course includes 60 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours, and Ballad covers exam costs. Classes are offered on daytime, evening, weekend, part-time, and full-time schedules depending on the cohort.
Good Samaritan Society offers paid CNA training with all education costs covered, using a hybrid format with online coursework and on-site skills/practicum at the facility. Trainees are hired into NA trainee roles and complete approximately 58 hours online plus 24 hours hands-on.
Gateway Achievement offers CNA training with residential one-on-one or blended options, with 75 total hours over 3–5 weeks at 20–25 hours per week. The school notes community partners and assistance with job placement.
NHC Place at Cool Springs offers free, employer-sponsored CNA training using a hybrid online and in-person format tied to employment. Applicants are hired into a Nursing Assistant role and complete the Red Cross CNA course as part of onboarding.
Gateway Achievement offers a blended CNA course with monthly start dates, combining remote theory with hands-on labs and clinicals. The program totals 75 hours over 3 to 5 weeks and provides job placement support through community partners.
Ballad Health Academy with TCAT partners enables Tennessee High students to earn the CNA credential through free in-person or hybrid training. The Ballad CNA course includes 60 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours with day and evening options.
These 35 programs offer accelerated CNA training in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee, making them ideal if you want to start your healthcare career quickly.
Beech Tree offers a paid CNA training program for employees using a state-approved curriculum completed in about 3 weeks; some portions may be online. Graduates earn CNA status and a pay increase within the facility.
Norris Health & Rehabilitation offers paid, state-approved CNA training for employees, with on-the-job and sometimes online instruction and free tuition.
Willow Ridge Center offers a paid Nurse Aide Training program with weekday daytime classes. Genesis covers approved tuition and training fees for hired participants during training.
NHC HealthCare Somerville offers a fast-paced, state-certified nurse aide class completed in 10 days with strict attendance and academic standards; a 40 books and supplies fee is required at orientation. Employment opportunities may be available upon successful completion.
Jefferson Park at Dandridge periodically runs a weekday CNA class with sessions held Monday–Friday 8:00 AM–4:30 PM. Applicants are directed to contact the facility for current dates and enrollment.
NHC HealthCare Milan offers a free, employer-sponsored CNA training class delivered in a fast-paced, two-week daytime schedule. Employment opportunities may be available upon successful completion.
NHC HealthCare McMinnville advertises a free, accelerated CNA training class of about 10–12 days. Graduates may apply for employment at the center after successful completion.
NHC Athens offers a free, state‑approved 17‑day CNA training held Monday–Friday 8:00–4:30 with a refundable 50 book deposit. Graduates may be considered for employment at the center.
NHC HealthCare Tullahoma offers a free, state-certified CNA training program completed in 3 weeks with weekday daytime classes. Graduates are eligible to apply for full-time CNA roles at the center.
CareRite Centers operates a free, train-to-hire Nurse Aide Training Program in Nashville with day classes over 3 weeks; graduates commit to one year of full-time employment at a CareRite center such as Trevecca. Classes are held at the Nashville Health Career Center.
CareRite’s Nashville Health Career Center runs a free, train‑to‑hire CNA program held Monday–Friday 7am–3pm for three weeks at 832 Wedgewood Ave. Participants sign a one‑year full‑time work agreement with a CareRite center after certification.
NATS offers a 5‑week CNA course with four weeks of daytime classroom instruction and one week of clinicals, preparing students with required theory and skills plus advanced procedures. Day classes run Mon, Tue, Wed, and Fri with limited spots.
NHC HealthCare Murfreesboro offers a free, three-week, state-certified CNA training program held Monday–Friday 7am–3pm designed to prepare students for immediate employment at the center. Graduates are eligible for full-time roles upon completion.
Siegel High School’s Health Science pathway offers Nursing Education and clinical experiences, with students participating in CNA certification opportunities. The school has hosted a month‑long CNA class for graduates with daily daytime sessions.
The Health Center at AdamsPlace runs a free, state‑certified CNA training program lasting 3 weeks, held Monday–Friday from 7am to 3pm, with potential eligibility for full‑time employment after completion.
CHAT offers a CNA/Nurse Aide Training program with classroom, skills lab, and clinical experience and small class sizes. Students can finish in as little as 4 weeks with day or evening schedules and job placement assistance.
TCAT Knoxville’s Nursing Aide course at the Blount Memorial Hospital site provides 120 clock hours with part-time day and evening cohorts; tuition is 591 and students cover books/supplies and required screenings.
TCAT Knoxville’s Nursing Aide course is a 120 hour program with day and evening cohorts offered on a parttime schedule. Tuition excludes books, uniforms, background check, drug screen, and testing fees.
Vitali offers a 96 hour CNA course with day and evening options beginning the first Monday of each month. Tuition is listed with additional required items such as books, scrubs, CPR, background check, and the state exam.
NHC offers free Certified Nursing Assistant training with classroom and hands-on instruction. Daytime cohorts run on a rapid schedule with employment opportunities at NHC centers.
NHC Place Farragut hosts a free, accelerated CNA training class at its Cavette Hill campus. Recent listings advertise a 19-day, Monday–Friday daytime schedule with employment opportunities upon completion.
Holston Health & Rehabilitation Center offers a free, employer-sponsored CNA training class completed in 17 days, held Monday–Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. A refundable books and supplies deposit may be required and qualified graduates may be considered for facility employment.
Excel Academy offers nurse aide training with hands-on skills, lab, and classroom instruction, available in day and evening cohorts. Full-time runs about 3 weeks and part-time about 3.5 weeks.
Gateway Achievement offers CNA training with residential one-on-one or blended options, with 75 total hours over 3–5 weeks at 20–25 hours per week. The school notes community partners and assistance with job placement.
NHC offers free, accelerated CNA training with two weeks of classroom at the NHC HealthCare Training Center in Bristol followed by one week of clinicals at NHC HealthCare Johnson City. Employment opportunities may be available after completion.
NHC HealthCare Franklin offers free employer-sponsored CNA classes that are fast-paced (about two weeks) with the opportunity to apply for employment after completion. Training details and interest are handled through NHC’s CNA program pages and postings.
Free four-week CNA training held on-site Monday–Friday 8:30am–3:00pm with classroom and clinical instruction. Graduates who earn certification are eligible to apply for positions at the facility.
NHC Dickson offers a free, state-certified nurse aide training program completed in a short, accelerated timeframe with weekday daytime classes; graduates may apply for employment at the center.
UTC’s state-accredited CNA Academy is a five-week, 123-hour in-person course including classroom, lab, clinical training, CPR, exam fee, materials, and scrubs. Employer sponsorships are available that pay full tuition and guarantee full-time employment with the sponsor.
Chattanooga State’s Economic & Workforce Development offers a four-week Certified Nurse Assistant program preparing students for high-demand entry-level roles across care settings.
Chattanooga State and Orange Grove Center run a two-week CNA training program on Orange Grove’s campus that combines classroom and experiential learning.
Gateway Achievement offers a blended CNA course with monthly start dates, combining remote theory with hands-on labs and clinicals. The program totals 75 hours over 3 to 5 weeks and provides job placement support through community partners.
These 17 programs offer evening CNA classes in Tennessee, 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.
Hancock County High School
✅ State Approved🏫 High School💵 Financial Aid Available🌙 Evening Classes Available
Walters State Community College’s Workforce Training schedules CNA classes hosted at Hancock County High School, typically meeting evenings for about 12 weeks. Announcements also note possible funding through the American Job Center.
Ballad Health Academy partners with TCATs and Ballad Health to let students earn the CNA credential through free in-person or hybrid classes. The Ballad CNA course includes 60 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours with day and evening options.
Ballad Health offers free CNA training in Northeast Tennessee with in-person and online/hybrid options; the course includes 60 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours, and Ballad covers exam costs. Classes are offered on daytime, evening, weekend, part-time, and full-time schedules depending on the cohort.
TCAT Harriman’s part-time Certified Nursing Assistant program provides 120 hours of classroom and clinical instruction and is offered in evening cohorts. The curriculum covers core patient care skills and safety in long-term and acute care settings.
Ivy Hall offers free CNA classes at the facility with day and evening cohorts. Training includes classroom and clinical instruction on-site; seats are limited and applications are taken by the facility.
Walters State’s Workforce Training offers a Certified Nurse Aide course that prepares students for entry-level patient care in under 12 weeks. Recent announcements list evening cohorts in the region and note typical tuition of 899.
Walters State’s Workforce Training division offers a Certified Nurse Aide program teaching basic patient care skills with classroom, lab, and supervised clinical hours. Cohorts are often scheduled on evening weekdays and can be completed in under 12 weeks.
CHAT offers a CNA/Nurse Aide Training program with classroom, skills lab, and clinical experience and small class sizes. Students can finish in as little as 4 weeks with day or evening schedules and job placement assistance.
TCAT Knoxville’s Nursing Aide course at the Blount Memorial Hospital site provides 120 clock hours with part-time day and evening cohorts; tuition is 591 and students cover books/supplies and required screenings.
TCAT Knoxville’s Nursing Aide course is a 120 hour program with day and evening cohorts offered on a parttime schedule. Tuition excludes books, uniforms, background check, drug screen, and testing fees.
Vitali offers a 96 hour CNA course with day and evening options beginning the first Monday of each month. Tuition is listed with additional required items such as books, scrubs, CPR, background check, and the state exam.
Excel Academy offers nurse aide training with hands-on skills, lab, and classroom instruction, available in day and evening cohorts. Full-time runs about 3 weeks and part-time about 3.5 weeks.
Gateway Achievement offers CNA training with residential one-on-one or blended options, with 75 total hours over 3–5 weeks at 20–25 hours per week. The school notes community partners and assistance with job placement.
Walters State’s Workforce Training division offers a Certified Nurse Aide course at the Niswonger (Greeneville) Campus with evening, part‑time cohorts. Recent cohorts list tuition of 899 and include supervised clinical hours at a long‑term care facility.
UTC’s state-accredited CNA Academy is a five-week, 123-hour in-person course including classroom, lab, clinical training, CPR, exam fee, materials, and scrubs. Employer sponsorships are available that pay full tuition and guarantee full-time employment with the sponsor.
The Nursing Assistant program totals 144 hours with classroom, campus lab, and supervised clinical; day cohorts finish in 6 weeks and evening cohorts in 9 weeks.
Total Cost: $1,450Total Hours: 144Duration: 6 weeks
Ballad Health Academy with TCAT partners enables Tennessee High students to earn the CNA credential through free in-person or hybrid training. The Ballad CNA course includes 60 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours with day and evening options.
These 1 programs offer weekend CNA classes in Tennessee, 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.
Ballad Health
✅ State Approved🏫 Educational Entity💻 Online Available✨ Free Program🏢 Employer Sponsored🕒 Evening & Weekend Classes Available
Ballad Health offers free CNA training in Northeast Tennessee with in-person and online/hybrid options; the course includes 60 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours, and Ballad covers exam costs. Classes are offered on daytime, evening, weekend, part-time, and full-time schedules depending on the cohort.
Tennessee offers good opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistants, both in terms of job availability and career growth. With more than 23,150 CNAs employed statewide and over 553 healthcare facilities, there are many ways to begin or advance your CNA career. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Tennessee has more than 304 nursing homes, 121 hospitals, and 128 home health agencies employing CNAs. While these figures are based on CMS data and may not include every facility, they illustrate the extensive range of healthcare environments where CNAs are in demand.
Salary Overview
The median annual income for all workers in Tennessee is about $43,820, or $21.07 per hour. CNAs in Tennessee earn a median of $35,040 annually, which equals about $16.85 per hour. While CNA wages are below the state average, the role provides a stable entry point into healthcare with numerous pathways for advancement into higher-paying positions such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN).
Job Outlook
The job outlook for CNAs in Tennessee remains positive. With 23,150 CNAs currently employed and hundreds of healthcare facilities statewide, demand continues to rise—especially as the state's senior population grows. Major metropolitan areas such as Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga serve as key employment hubs. Large health systems like Vanderbilt University Medical Center, HCA Healthcare, Ballad Health, and Baptist Memorial Health Care consistently hire CNAs to support hospitals, long-term care, and home health operations. Many CNAs gain hands-on experience and later pursue advanced credentials in nursing, creating a steady cycle of new job openings across the state.
Becoming a CNA in Tennessee is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to enter the healthcare field. Most training programs can be completed in just a few weeks, allowing you to start working quickly and gain practical experience. With over 304 nursing homes, a growing number of hospitals, and a robust network of home health agencies, CNAs in Tennessee enjoy diverse employment options. The state's technical colleges and community-based programs also make CNA education accessible to students in both urban and rural areas. For many, CNA work serves as both a meaningful long-term career and a stepping stone toward becoming an LPN or RN. You can also explore free CNA classes, online CNA programs, or accelerated CNA programs available throughout the state.
CNA Salaries across Tennessee
CNA salaries vary by region, with higher wages typically found in metropolitan areas such as Nashville and Memphis, while smaller cities and rural areas offer lower—but still stable—pay scales. Below is a breakdown of CNA salaries across Tennessee.
Compare CNA salaries across different metropolitan areas and regions in Tennessee.
Salary data includes both annual and hourly wages for nursing assistants.
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Tennessee
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, CNA programs require a minimum of 75 hours of training, which includes 35 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 Tennessee?
CNA classes in Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
Yes. Many nursing homes, hospitals, and state workforce programs in Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
Several schools in Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
Yes, some schools and healthcare providers in Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
To become a CNA in Tennessee, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP), and be listed on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry. The process is overseen by the Tennessee Department of Health's Division of Licensure and Regulation.
I’m a CNA in another state. Can I transfer my license to Tennessee?
Yes. Tennessee allows CNAs certified in other states to transfer their license through reciprocity. This process places you on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry without retaking training. Learn more in our guide to CNA License Reciprocity in Tennessee.
How often do I need to renew my CNA license in Tennessee?
CNAs in Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
You can verify your status on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry online. For step-by-step instructions, visit our guide on CNA License & Registration in Tennessee.
How much do CNAs earn in Tennessee?
The median CNA salary in Tennessee is $35,040 per year, or about $16.85 per hour. Pay can vary by region, employer, and years of experience. Many CNAs in Tennessee also use the role as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Where do CNAs work in Tennessee?
Certified Nursing Assistants in Tennessee 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.