CNA Classes & Programs in Bristol, Tennessee
Get Information from CNA Programs in Bristol and Nearby
Bristol is home to 1 CNA program tailored for those looking to enter the healthcare field as certified nursing assistants. Located at the northeastern tip of Tennessee along the Virginia border, Bristol provides convenient access to state-approved CNA training within its community. For added flexibility, an online program option is available here as well.
This single CNA course prepares students for Tennessee certification while offering foundational knowledge required by local employers—including Bristol’s acute care hospital—for entry-level caregiving roles. In the Kingsport-Bristol-Bristol metro area encompassing Bristol itself, CNAs earn around $33,970 per year based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data; this figure is slightly below Tennessee’s statewide median salary.
CNA programs in Bristol enable participants to acquire essential clinical skills valued by regional employers. Graduates can pursue jobs at nearby medical centers or explore other opportunities throughout Sullivan County upon earning their credentials.
Quick Facts About Bristol
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Population27,307Residents
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CNA Programs1State-approved Programs
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Median Income$49,130Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$16.33Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$33,970Median Annual Salary
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Facilities1CMS Hospital
Get Information from CNA Programs in Bristol and Nearby
Schools in Bristol and nearby are actively seeking qualified students. Fill out one quick form below to receive information directly from multiple accredited CNA programs.
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Browse CNA Classes in Bristol
Bristol’s 1 CNA program prepares students for Tennessee state certification through either traditional or online classes that build clinical skills needed by employers where CNAs are needed locally. This training supports exam success while helping new professionals qualify for patient care positions at area medical facilities or beyond.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Bristol through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: not available in Bristol but are offered in other cities throughout Tennessee.
Online programs: Some classes in Bristol offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
Ballad Health Academy @Tennessee High School
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Bristol
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$33,970Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$16.33Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs1,280CNA Positions
In the Kingsport-Bristol-Bristol region, approximately 1,280 CNAs are employed across diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals and outpatient clinics serving Northeast Tennessee residents. Employment prospects remain stable due to ongoing demand within these communities for qualified nursing assistants, including CNA jobs in Bristol.
CNA salary in Bristol is reflected by regional data: In Kingsport-Bristol-Bristol, CNAs earn around $33,970 per year (about $16.33 per hour), based on BLS OEWS (May 2023). This amount is somewhat lower than Tennessee’s statewide median salary of $34,850 and reflects regional compensation conditions.
The primary CMS-certified employer locally is Wellmont Bristol Regional Medical Center—a government-owned acute care hospital providing emergency services and birthing-friendly options—with a notable presence among healthcare institutions in Bristol proper.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Bristol? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Blountville, Mountain City, Bluff City, Hampton, and Gray, or browse the Tennessee CNA programs page for more options.
Working in Other States
Planning to move or gain experience working in other states? Use our reciprocity guide to transfer your existing CNA license across states.
Working Through Agencies or as a Travel CNA
If you're already certified and would like to work through an agency or work as a travel CNA, browse here our directory of CNA agencies or simply fill out this short form to get matched with 3 personalized CNA agencies that can help you land your next job.
Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Bristol (1 facilities)
1 hospital in Bristol offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Wellmont Bristol Regional Medical Center
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in Bristol, TN
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Bristol, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Tennessee. These include completing a Tennessee Department of Health–approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), passing the state competency evaluation administered by D&SDT–HEADMASTER, and being listed on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 75 total hours of training (classroom, lab, and clinical combined)
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident contact
- Passing both the knowledge and skills exams within 24 months of completing training (up to three attempts per section)
- Criminal background check required before patient contact
- Placement on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry maintained by the Tennessee Department of Health
Once certified, you can work in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living centers, and home health agencies throughout Bristol and across Tennessee.
Already certified in another state? You may qualify for reciprocity to transfer your certification into Tennessee without retraining or retesting. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Tennessee guide.
For full details on training, testing, certification renewal, and maintaining an active listing, see our step-by-step CNA License & Registration in Tennessee guide.
Career Growth & Advancement
Many CNAs use their experience as a stepping stone toward advanced healthcare careers:
- Specialized certifications (e.g., dementia care, medication aide)
- Promotion into shift supervisor or training coordinator roles
- Bridge programs to become an LPN or RN
- Opportunities in healthcare administration or education
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Bristol
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Bristol?
Most CNA programs in Bristol can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule.
How much does CNA training cost in Bristol?
Tuition typically ranges from $800–$1,500, though may be higher depending on the program. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in Bristol?
Some hospitals, nursing homes, and workforce programs may offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there online CNA training options available in Bristol?
Several schools offer hybrid options with online coursework and in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
Are there any 4-weeks CNA classes in Bristol?
Yes, some schools in Bristol or nearby areas may offer accelerated CNA programs that can be completed in as little as 4 weeks, depending on class schedules and clinical requirements.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near Bristol there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Blountville, Mountain City, Bluff City, Hampton, and Gray. You can also look at the Tennessee state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Tennessee CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Tennessee, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Tennessee CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Bristol?
CNAs in Bristol are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. Many also use their CNA experience as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
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.