CNA Programs & Career Opportunities in Vermont
Vermont is home to 56 CNA training programs and over 60 healthcare facilities. Our guide currently highlights 30 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 Vermont.
Get Information from CNA Programs in Vermont
- Major Cities for CNA Careers in Vermont
- Training & Certification Requirements in Vermont
- Explore CNA Classes by City in Vermont
- Free CNA Classes in Vermont
- Online CNA Classes in Vermont
- 4-Week CNA Classes in Vermont
- Evening Classes in Vermont
- Weekend Classes in Vermont
- Salary & Job Outlook as a CNA in Vermont
- Salary Overview by Area
- Frequently Asked Questions
Starting your CNA Career in Vermont
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Training Programs56State-approved Programs
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Cities30Cities Currently Covered
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Healthcare Facilities60+Total Facilities
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Median Annual Salary$40,460Median Yearly Pay
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Median Hourly Salary$19.45Median Per Hour
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Total CNAs Employed2,920CNAs Working Statewide
With 56 state-approved CNA training programs, Vermont offers accessible nurse aide education throughout the state. Programs are widely available across key communities including Burlington, South Burlington, Rutland, Essex Junction, Bennington, and Barre, as well as throughout rural regions. Currently, approximately 2,920 Certified Nursing Assistants are employed throughout Vermont, reflecting steady demand for qualified healthcare professionals. CNAs in Vermont earn a median annual wage of $40,460, or about $19.45 per hour, remaining competitive within the regional healthcare market.
With a population of over 645,000 residents, Vermont maintains consistent demand for skilled healthcare workers at every level. From major health systems such as The University of Vermont Health Network, Dartmouth Health, Rutland Regional Medical Center, and Central Vermont Medical Center to dozens 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 Vermont
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Major Cities for CNA Careers in Vermont
Explore CNA opportunities in Vermont's largest cities and metropolitan areas.
South Burlington
Training & Certification Requirements in Vermont
Before starting your training, it's important to know exactly what Vermont requires to become a Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA), Vermont's equivalent to the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential used in most other states. 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 18 years old to enroll in an approved LNA training program in Vermont. Some programs may accept students who are 17 years old if they will be 18 by the first clinical session.
- Program enrollment (NATCEP): You must complete a Vermont-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP). Programs are offered through technical centers, community colleges, adult education providers, and licensed nursing facilities. Programs must be approved by the Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living (DAIL).
- Background check: Candidates must meet Vermont background screening requirements prior to clinical placement or employment. Individuals with substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of property are not eligible for placement on the Nurse Aide Registry.
- Good standing: Employers must verify Nurse Aide Registry status prior to employment in licensed long-term care facilities.
Training Hours & Clinicals
Vermont requires a minimum of 75 total hours of nurse aide training. This includes at least 59 hours of curriculum instruction and 16 hours of supervised practical training with a live person in a laboratory or healthcare setting. 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 licensed and listed on the Vermont Nurse Aide Registry.
Competency Exam (Knowledge & Skills)
After completing training, candidates must pass the Vermont Nurse Aide Competency Examination, administered by Excel Testing under contract with the State of Vermont. The exam includes:
- Knowledge test: A 60 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 and must score at least 70% to pass. An oral version on audio CD is available for candidates who require it.
- Skills evaluation: Demonstration of four randomly selected nurse aide skills within 30 minutes, including mandatory hand hygiene and required critical steps. All critical elements must be performed correctly to pass.
Candidates must pass both the knowledge and skills components to become licensed. You are allowed up to three attempts to pass the competency examination. Both exam components must be passed within 24 months of completing training. Candidates who do not pass within the allowed attempts must complete a new Vermont-approved training program before retesting.
Placement on the Registry & Working as an LNA
Once both exam components are successfully passed, your name is added to the Vermont Nurse Aide Registry, maintained by the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation (OPR) through the Board of Nursing. Testing results are transmitted electronically by Excel Testing. You may then work as an LNA in nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, and other licensed healthcare settings throughout Vermont.
Renewal
Vermont LNA licensure must be renewed every 24 months. To remain active on the registry, LNAs must have performed at least 400 hours (50 days) of paid nursing-related services under the supervision of a licensed nurse during the previous 24-month period. Individuals who do not meet the work requirement must complete retraining and retake both competency exams before returning to active status.
Reciprocity
Vermont allows registry-based reciprocity for LNAs/CNAs certified in other U.S. states. Applicants must hold an active certification in good standing, provide verification that their training and competency evaluation met federal OBRA requirements, and document at least 400 hours (50 days) of paid work within the past two years. Out-of-state CNAs meeting these requirements are not required to retake the Vermont competency exam.
Costs
Vermont LNA exam fees are set by Excel Testing 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: Vermont Office of Professional Regulation — Board of Nursing, Vermont DAIL — Nurse Aide Training Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), Excel Testing — Vermont LNA Competency Examination, Vermont Nurse Aide Competency Test Guide, 42 CFR 483.152 — Federal Nurse Aide Training Requirements
Explore CNA Classes by City in Vermont
Explore CNA classes in Vermont by city. We currently feature 30 cities, each with a full list of CNA training courses, salary details, and selected healthcare facilities.
Free CNA Classes in Vermont
Looking for free CNA classes and training programs in Vermont? These 12 options are available at no cost through employer sponsorship, state support, or other financial assistance.
Vermont Med Ed - Wake Robin
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Vernon Green
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The Pines Rehabilitation and Health
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Vermont Med Ed - Helen Porter
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St. Albans Health & Rehab
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River Valley Technical Center
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Northwestern Medical Center
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Genesis Eldercare/Mtn. View Center
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Cedar Hill
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Central Vermont Medical Center
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Online CNA Classes in Vermont
These 7 programs offer CNA classes online in Vermont, 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.
Vermont Med Ed - The Residence at Shelburne Bay
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Vermont Med Ed - Vergennes
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Stafford Technical Center
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Vermont Med Ed - Helen Porter
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Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center
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Green Mountain Technology & Career Center
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Copley Health Systems
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4-Week CNA Classes in Vermont
These 5 programs offer accelerated CNA training in Vermont, 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 Vermont, making them ideal if you want to start your healthcare career quickly.
University of Vermont Medical Center
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St. Johnsbury Academy Adult Ed
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Southwest Vermont Career Dev Center
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Green Mountain Technology & Career Center
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Elderwood at Burlington
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Evening Classes in Vermont
These 11 programs offer evening CNA classes in Vermont, 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.
Vermont Med Ed - Wake Robin
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Vernon Green
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Vermont Med Ed - Helen Porter
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St. Johnsbury Academy Adult Ed
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Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center
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North Country Career Center
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Northwest Technical Center
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Northwestern Medical Center
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Green Mountain Technology & Career Center
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Hartford Area Career & Technology Center
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Weekend Classes in Vermont
These 4 programs offer weekend CNA classes in Vermont, 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.
St. Johnsbury Academy Adult Ed
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North Country Career Center
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Northwest Technical Center
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Hartford Area Career & Technology Center
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Salary & Job Outlook as a CNA in Vermont
Vermont offers stable employment opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistants, supported by a close-knit healthcare network and sustained demand for long-term and community-based care. With more than 2,920 CNAs working statewide and approximately 60 healthcare facilities, Vermont provides a range of employment settings despite its smaller population. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the state includes about 34 nursing homes, 17 hospitals, and 9 home health agencies that regularly employ CNAs. While CMS counts may not capture every licensed provider, they illustrate the overall scope of CNA employment opportunities across Vermont.
Salary Overview
The median annual income for all workers in Vermont is approximately $49,630, or $23.86 per hour. Certified Nursing Assistants in Vermont earn a median annual income of $40,460, or approximately $19.45 per hour. While CNA wages are below the statewide median for all occupations, they remain competitive within the regional healthcare labor market. Many CNAs in Vermont gain valuable hands-on experience before advancing 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 Vermont remains steady, driven largely by an aging population and consistent demand for long-term and home-based care services. With 2,920 CNAs currently working across dozens of healthcare facilities, workforce demand is expected to remain stable across both rural communities and regional population centers.
Major healthcare employers in Vermont—including The University of Vermont Health Network, Dartmouth Health (serving parts of eastern Vermont), Rutland Regional Medical Center, and Central Vermont Medical Center—regularly employ CNAs in hospital, long-term care, and community health settings. Vermont's healthcare workforce is relatively small, which can result in consistent hiring needs as CNAs advance into nursing roles or relocate within the region.
If you are considering this career path, explore our directory of CNA training programs in Vermont or learn more about certification and registry placement in our CNA License & Registration guide.
Why Become a CNA in Vermont?
Becoming a CNA in Vermont offers a practical and accessible entry into the healthcare field, particularly for individuals interested in working in community-based or long-term care settings. With more than 34 nursing homes and a network of regional hospitals and home health providers, CNAs have opportunities to work in a variety of care environments. Vermont's smaller healthcare system can also provide more direct patient interaction and close collaboration with nursing teams. For many individuals, CNA work serves as both a meaningful career and a stepping stone toward advanced nursing education.
CNA Salaries across Vermont
CNA wages in Vermont vary by region and facility type, with differences between rural communities and larger population centers such as Burlington and Rutland. Factors such as facility size, union presence, and local demand influence compensation levels. Below is a breakdown of CNA salaries across different areas of Vermont.
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS Nursing Homes, CMS Hospitals, CMS Home Health Agencies
CNA Salary by Area in Vermont
Compare CNA salaries across different metropolitan areas and regions in Vermont. Salary data includes both annual and hourly wages for nursing assistants.
| Area | Annual salary | Hourly salary |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont (statewide) | $40,460 | $19.45 |
| Burlington-South Burlington | $42,370 | $20.37 |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Vermont
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Vermont?
In Vermont, CNA programs require a minimum of 75 hours of training, which includes 16 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 Vermont?
CNA classes in Vermont 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 Vermont?
Yes. Many nursing homes, hospitals, and state workforce programs in Vermont 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 Vermont?
Several schools in Vermont 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 Vermont?
Yes, some schools and healthcare providers in Vermont 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 Vermont?
To become a CNA in Vermont, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass the , and be listed on the Vermont Nurse Aide Registry. The process is overseen by the .
I’m a CNA in another state. Can I transfer my license to Vermont?
Yes. Vermont allows CNAs certified in other states to transfer their license through reciprocity. This process places you on the Vermont Nurse Aide Registry without retaking training. Learn more in our guide to CNA License Reciprocity in Vermont.
How often do I need to renew my CNA license in Vermont?
CNAs in Vermont 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 Vermont?
You can verify your status on the Vermont Nurse Aide Registry online. For step-by-step instructions, visit our guide on CNA License & Registration in Vermont.
How much do CNAs earn in Vermont?
The median CNA salary in Vermont is $40,460 per year, or about $19.45 per hour. Pay can vary by region, employer, and years of experience. Many CNAs in Vermont also use the role as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Where do CNAs work in Vermont?
Certified Nursing Assistants in Vermont 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.