Virginia is home to 220 CNA training programs and over 630 healthcare facilities. Our guide currently highlights 122 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 Virginia.
With roughly 220 CNA training programs statewide, Virginia offers extensive educational opportunities in major metropolitan areas such as Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Arlington, Richmond, and Newport News. Currently, about 39,750 Certified Nursing Assistants work across Virginia, reflecting steady and growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals. Students completing Virginia CNA programs can expect median earnings of 36,820 annually and 17.70 per hour.
With a population of over 8.8 million residents and a rapidly expanding healthcare sector, Virginia provides strong career opportunities for CNA training graduates. From leading health systems such as Sentara Healthcare, Inova Health System, VCU Health, Bon Secours Health System, and Carilion Clinic to hundreds of long-term care and rehabilitation facilities statewide, Certified Nursing Assistants play an essential 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 Virginia
Explore CNA opportunities in Virginia's largest cities and metropolitan areas.
Before you enroll, it helps to understand exactly what Virginia 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 Virginia Board of Nursing–approved Nurse Aide Education Program. Programs are available through community colleges, high schools, private training centers, and licensed healthcare facilities. The program must meet all federal OBRA and state Virginia Administrative Code 18VAC90-26 standards.
Background check: All CNA candidates must undergo a criminal background check before direct patient contact, as required under Code of Virginia § 32.1-162.9:1. Employers must verify that no disqualifying convictions or registry findings (abuse, neglect, or misappropriation) exist before hiring.
Training Hours & Clinicals
Virginia requires a minimum of 120 total hours of training, including 80 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of supervised clinical experience in a licensed nursing facility. Before any hands-on care, students must complete at least 24 hours of classroom instruction covering required topics such as communication, infection control, residents' rights, safety and emergency procedures (including the Heimlich maneuver), and promoting residents' independence and dignity.
Certification Exam (NNAAP)
After completing training, you must pass both parts of the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam, administered by Credentia on behalf of the Virginia Board of Nursing:
Knowledge test (written or oral): 70 multiple-choice questions (or 60 questions plus 10 reading comprehension for the oral version). The oral exam is available in English and Spanish.
Skills evaluation: performance of five randomly selected nurse aide skills, including mandatory hand hygiene and at least one measurement task (e.g., recording blood pressure, weight, or pulse).
You must pass both exam components to become certified. Candidates have up to three attempts per section within 24 months of training completion. Those who do not pass within that period 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 Virginia Nurse Aide Registry, maintained by the Virginia Board of Nursing through Credentia (CNA365). Employers must verify your registry status before hiring. Under federal law, a nursing facility may employ a trainee for up to 120 days while completing certification requirements.
Renewal & In-Service Requirements
Virginia CNA certification must be renewed every 24 months. To stay active on the registry, you must have performed at least 8 hours of paid nursing or nursing-related duties under the supervision of a licensed nurse during the previous two years. CNAs employed in Medicare- or Medicaid-certified facilities must also complete at least 12 hours of annual in-service education (24 hours every two years), provided and documented by the employer.
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 endorsement (reciprocity) to be placed on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry without retraining. You must provide verification of current certification, proof of recent employment as a CNA, and meet Virginia's background check requirements. Applications are submitted directly to the Virginia Board of Nursing.
Costs & Reimbursement
Exam fees are set by Credentia and may vary by testing method. 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 those expenses on a prorated basis.
Explore CNA classes in Virginia by city. We currently feature 122 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 Virginia? These 32 options are available at no cost through employer sponsorship, state support, or other financial assistance.
Powhatan High School’s Nurse Aide Honors (HO8360W) is a state‑accredited course with classroom and clinical training in hospitals, nursing homes, and outpatient facilities. Program completers are eligible to take the state nurse aide certification exam.
Total Cost: FreeTotal Hours: 280Duration: 36 weeks
The Springs Nursing & Rehab (Kissito Healthcare) periodically offers employer-sponsored, no-cost CNA training at its Hot Springs facility for individuals starting a caregiving career.
Virginia Health Services offers an earn‑as‑you‑learn CNA apprenticeship at Walter Reed that runs about six weeks with paid class, skills lab, and on‑the‑job training. Tuition and certification exam costs are covered, and graduates continue as team members at the facility.
Healthcare Academy of Southwest Virginia runs state‑approved 7‑week CNA classes and has partnered with local facilities; select cohorts have tuition and materials covered by workforce grants.
Riverside’s Earn & Learn program provides paid training on the Middle Peninsula with full tuition coverage while you complete a state‑approved Nurse Aide course, typically in 4–6 weeks on weekday day schedules. Graduates move into CNA roles at Riverside with guaranteed placement and ongoing support.
Pulaski County High School’s Health and Medical Sciences pathway includes Nurse Aide courses that provide classroom instruction and clinical experience. The program prepares students for entry-level caregiving roles in healthcare settings.
GCHS offers Dual Enrollment Health Care Technology I and II (Nurse Aide) with classroom instruction, clinical experience, and eligibility to take the nurse aide certification exam upon completion.
Bridgewater Retirement Community offers a no-cost, employer-sponsored Nurse Aide course totaling 120 hours (80 classroom, 40 clinical) with weekday classes 8AM–5PM. Graduates who meet course and performance expectations are offered employment opportunities at BRC.
Fauquier High School offers a Nursing Aide program that combines classroom instruction with hands‑on clinical experience at a local assisted living facility. The program provides practical patient‑care skills for students interested in healthcare careers.
NOVA Workforce offers Nurse Aide (CNA) training with classroom, lab, and clinical preparation; FastForward and other grants may reduce tuition to 0 for eligible students. The program also guarantees at least one interview with a regional employer.
Facility offers a CNA in Training pathway where the center provides the education while participants train toward CNA roles. Full‑time student positions require attendance standards and transition to full‑time work upon class completion.
Mulberry Creek Nursing & Rehab Center offers paid training for employees to earn the CNA license. Training is provided as part of employment and supports staffing needs at the facility.
Valley Health offers a paid 10-week Nurse Aide Training Program in which trainees are hired as temporary employees, receive benefits, and pay no tuition or testing-related fees, with a post‑training work commitment.
Heritage Care Inc. offers a hybrid Nurse Aide training in Northern Virginia with Zoom theory and in-person labs/clinicals at Fairfax Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. The Virginia program is 144 hours and is tuition-free for eligible community members through grants or sponsorships.
Paid, employer-sponsored Student Nursing Assistant class lasting four weeks with classroom and clinical training; trainees are employed during training and are placed within Friendship facilities after completion.
Six-week paid Nursing Aide Student program with classroom and clinical training held Monday–Friday 9:00–2:30; trainees are employees during training and may transition to CNA roles upon completion.
TCC Workforce offers Basic Nurse Aide Preparation in 8 or 16 weeks, and the Job Skills Training Program runs an 8–12 week CNA cohort on a weekday daytime schedule. For eligible participants, JSTP tuition is covered by third-party funding and includes placement services.
Six-week, full-time day Nurse Aide certificate on the Newport News campus with classroom, lab and clinical instruction. An Earn-and-Learn option with Riverside Lifelong Health covers tuition while employed as a Hospitality Assistant.
Riverside Lifelong Health offers a paid Earn-and-Learn pathway that hires trainees as Hospitality Assistants and pays full tuition for the Nurse Aide program. Graduates transition into CNA roles at Lifelong Health facilities upon certification.
Virginia Health Services’ Earn-As-You-Learn CNA Apprenticeship is a paid, accelerated training held on day shift at the EEE Center and partner facilities. Training lasts about six weeks with rotating weekends and leads to placement as a CNA upon successful completion.
VMRC runs a free, paid Nurse Aide training program for employees with weekday classroom sessions and daytime clinicals. Cohorts run about six weeks, and graduates move into CNA roles at VMRC.
Sunnyside offers a paid, employer-sponsored Nurse Aide (CNA) training program for selected student employees with class and on-site clinical instruction over about 8–10 weeks. Graduates may transition into CNA roles at the community.
Bethel High School (Hampton City Schools) runs an after-school Nurse Aide program through the Governor’s Health Sciences Academy; students complete clinicals with local partners and the school covers program expenses.
FastForward Nurse Aide program with classroom/lab instruction and a 40-hour clinical experience; total contact hours 164. Eligible students may receive G3/FastForward funding that can cover tuition, fees, and books.
In partnership with Warm Hearth’s Kroontje Health Care Center, the Healthcare Academy of Southwest Virginia offers a CNA class in Blacksburg with classroom and clinical training; recent cohorts have been seven weeks. Regional workforce grants may waive tuition and materials for eligible students.
Two-part, full-year Introduction to Nursing (courses 835526 and 835626) with classroom/simulation at West Potomac Academy and a required 40-hour clinical; eligible students may sit for the CNA exam.
NOVA Workforce offers Nurse Aide (CNA) preparation with hybrid online lectures, in-person labs held at NOVA locations including Alexandria, and supervised clinicals; FastForward/FANTIC/G3 funding may be available and CNA students are eligible for NOVA’s Guaranteed Interview Program.
These 22 programs offer CNA classes online in Virginia, 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.
Germanna Community College - Stafford County Center
✅ State Approved🏫 Community College💻 Online Available💵 Financial Aid Available🕒 Evening & Weekend Classes Available
Germanna’s Certified Nurse Aide is a 7-week program using HCT 101 and HCT 102 with classroom, lab, and clinical instruction based at the Stafford County Center. Evening cohorts often include weekend clinicals.
MGCC’s Nurse Aide program provides at least 120 hours of lecture, lab, and instructor-led clinical training, with CPR/First Aid included for clinical eligibility. FastForward financial assistance may reduce tuition for eligible Virginia residents.
Heart to Heart offers a 5-week, 140-hour Hybrid Nurse Aide program combining online coursework with in-person skills training and clinicals. Tuition assistance and scholarships are available, and upcoming classes are posted with schedules and pricing.
Total Cost: $1,582Total Hours: 140Duration: 5 weeks
Virginia Board of Nursing–approved 140 hour Nurse Aide program that can be completed in 4 weeks and teaches core bedside skills with lab and clinical. A hybrid option delivers online theory with in‑person skills and clinical, and day, evening, and weekend schedules are offered.
The CNA program provides 145 hours over 6 weeks with day and weekend options, offered in in‑person or hybrid formats; tuition includes uniform, background check, drug screen, CPR, textbook, equipment, and first state exam.
Total Cost: $2,000Total Hours: 145Duration: 6 weeks
Germanna offers a 7-week Certified Nurse Aide program delivered through HCT 101, HCT 102 and HCT 115 with classroom, lab, and clinical instruction. The program is part-time and may include online classroom components.
Hybrid nurse aide course combining online lectures with on-site skills lab and clinical at a nursing facility; program totals 140 hours over 4 weeks. Day and evening cohorts available.
CNA program with 100 classroom or lab hours plus 40 clinical hours offered in day, evening, and hybrid formats. Options range from 6 to 12 weeks with small class sizes.
Total Cost: $1,120Total Hours: 140Duration: 6 weeks
Heritage Care Inc. offers a hybrid Nurse Aide training in Northern Virginia with Zoom theory and in-person labs/clinicals at Fairfax Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. The Virginia program is 144 hours and is tuition-free for eligible community members through grants or sponsorships.
Hybrid nurse aide program with 80 hours online theory, 20 hours skills lab, and 40 hours clinicals. Tuition includes BLS and background/drug screen; students supply scrubs and pay the state exam fee.
Northern Virginia Community College - Woodbridge Campus
✅ State Approved🏫 Community College💻 Online Available⚡ Accelerated Program💵 Financial Aid Available🤝 Job Placement Help🕒 Evening & Weekend Classes Available
NOVA Workforce offers Nurse Aide Preparation (CNA) with hybrid instruction—online lectures plus in-person labs and clinicals, including cohorts based at the Woodbridge Regional Center. The program is FastForward-eligible with funding options and includes employer engagement via the Guaranteed Interview Program.
Virginia Board of Nursing–approved Nurse Aide program totaling 155 hours with lecture, lab, and 45 clinical hours. Offered in-person, virtual, and hybrid with daytime classes over 6–7 weeks.
CNA training combines online instruction with on-site skills labs and 40 clinical hours in a nursing facility over 6–8 weeks. Total program length is 140 hours.
VBON‑approved blended Nurse Aide program with online theory and onsite skills/clinicals; tuition includes textbook, materials, and a 2‑year CPR/AED/First Aid certification.
Unique Health School offers a Virginia Board of Nursing–approved Nurse Aide Training Program totaling 120 hours with classroom, lab, and clinical, available in 4‑week day or 5‑week evening formats.
Total Cost: $1,175Total Hours: 120Duration: 4 weeks
VBON-approved Nurse Aide program with hybrid/online theory plus in‑person lab and clinical; fast‑track and weekend options available. Flexible schedules include weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
Dominion Health Education Center offers an 8-week hybrid CNA program with online video lectures and evening in-person skills labs and clinicals. Tuition is 1400.
Family 1st of Virginia provides Board-approved CNA training with multiple formats: 4-week daytime, 7-week evening, and a self-paced online option. Recent promotions list tuition from 900.
Fresh Start Healthcare offers a Virginia Board of Nursing–approved Nurse Aide program in a blended online/onsite format. The course includes lecture, skills lab, and clinical practice, with CPR/AED/First Aid certification included.
Moon River Nursing Careers offers a 140-hour blended Nurse Aide/CNA program completed in 5 weeks, combining online theory, skills lab, and clinicals. Day, evening, and weekend options are available.
Total Cost: $2,150Total Hours: 140Duration: 5 weeks
NOVA Workforce offers Nurse Aide (CNA) preparation with hybrid online lectures, in-person labs held at NOVA locations including Alexandria, and supervised clinicals; FastForward/FANTIC/G3 funding may be available and CNA students are eligible for NOVA’s Guaranteed Interview Program.
These 23 programs offer accelerated CNA training in Virginia, 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 Virginia, making them ideal if you want to start your healthcare career quickly.
Wellness Nursing Institute
✅ State Approved🏫 Educational Entity⚡ Accelerated Program🤝 Job Placement Help🕒 Evening & Weekend Classes Available
📍 Stafford, 3619 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Unit 139, Virginia 22554
Virginia Board of Nursing–approved CNA program with 120 total hours (80 classroom, 20 lab, 40 clinical) offered in day, evening, and weekend formats. Job placement support is available.
Total Cost: $1,550Total Hours: 120Duration: 5 weeks
Riverside’s Earn & Learn program provides paid training on the Middle Peninsula with full tuition coverage while you complete a state‑approved Nurse Aide course, typically in 4–6 weeks on weekday day schedules. Graduates move into CNA roles at Riverside with guaranteed placement and ongoing support.
Bridgewater Retirement Community offers a no-cost, employer-sponsored Nurse Aide course totaling 120 hours (80 classroom, 40 clinical) with weekday classes 8AM–5PM. Graduates who meet course and performance expectations are offered employment opportunities at BRC.
Agapé’s Nurse Aide course runs 4–5 weeks and totals 140 hours, including BLS CPR training and certification, with classes offered in day and night formats. Agapé is a state-approved regional test site so students can train and test at the same location.
Heart to Heart offers a 5-week, 140-hour Hybrid Nurse Aide program combining online coursework with in-person skills training and clinicals. Tuition assistance and scholarships are available, and upcoming classes are posted with schedules and pricing.
Total Cost: $1,582Total Hours: 140Duration: 5 weeks
Virginia Board of Nursing–approved 140 hour Nurse Aide program that can be completed in 4 weeks and teaches core bedside skills with lab and clinical. A hybrid option delivers online theory with in‑person skills and clinical, and day, evening, and weekend schedules are offered.
Hybrid nurse aide course combining online lectures with on-site skills lab and clinical at a nursing facility; program totals 140 hours over 4 weeks. Day and evening cohorts available.
Thrive Healthcare Academy’s Nursing Assistant program includes 100 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical training. The course runs in 5–6 week cohorts held Monday–Friday.
Total Cost: $1,100Total Hours: 140Duration: 5 weeks
Northern Virginia Community College - Woodbridge Campus
✅ State Approved🏫 Community College💻 Online Available⚡ Accelerated Program💵 Financial Aid Available🤝 Job Placement Help🕒 Evening & Weekend Classes Available
NOVA Workforce offers Nurse Aide Preparation (CNA) with hybrid instruction—online lectures plus in-person labs and clinicals, including cohorts based at the Woodbridge Regional Center. The program is FastForward-eligible with funding options and includes employer engagement via the Guaranteed Interview Program.
Paid, employer-sponsored Student Nursing Assistant class lasting four weeks with classroom and clinical training; trainees are employed during training and are placed within Friendship facilities after completion.
Training Solutions offers a 4-week, 120-hour CNA program with 80 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical training in a nursing care facility.
Virginia Health Services’ Earn-As-You-Learn CNA Apprenticeship is a paid, accelerated training held on day shift at the EEE Center and partner facilities. Training lasts about six weeks with rotating weekends and leads to placement as a CNA upon successful completion.
Unique Health School offers a Virginia Board of Nursing–approved Nurse Aide Training Program totaling 120 hours with classroom, lab, and clinical, available in 4‑week day or 5‑week evening formats.
Total Cost: $1,175Total Hours: 120Duration: 4 weeks
VBON-approved Nurse Aide program with hybrid/online theory plus in‑person lab and clinical; fast‑track and weekend options available. Flexible schedules include weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
Family 1st of Virginia provides Board-approved CNA training with multiple formats: 4-week daytime, 7-week evening, and a self-paced online option. Recent promotions list tuition from 900.
Virginia Board-approved 140-hour CNA training offered in Charlottesville with day, evening, and weekend options; the day track completes in 4 weeks. Classroom and clinical training provided; state exam fee is additional.
Moon River Nursing Careers offers a 140-hour blended Nurse Aide/CNA program completed in 5 weeks, combining online theory, skills lab, and clinicals. Day, evening, and weekend options are available.
Total Cost: $2,150Total Hours: 140Duration: 5 weeks
Classic Nurses Services Inc. Academy offers hands-on CNA training in Alexandria with flexible scheduling options and PM classes available. The CNA program cost is listed as 1400.
State-approved 140-hour CNA program with day, evening, and weekend options; daytime cohort completes in 4 weeks and includes one week of clinicals. Tuition is listed as 1300 and includes materials and lab supplies.
Total Cost: $1,300Total Hours: 140Duration: 4 weeks
NOVA Workforce offers Nurse Aide (CNA) preparation with hybrid online lectures, in-person labs held at NOVA locations including Alexandria, and supervised clinicals; FastForward/FANTIC/G3 funding may be available and CNA students are eligible for NOVA’s Guaranteed Interview Program.
These 34 programs offer evening CNA classes in Virginia, 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.
Southwest Virginia Community College Transportation & Logistics Center Workforce & Continuing Education
✅ State Approved🏫 Community College💵 Financial Aid Available🕒 Evening & Weekend Classes Available
Southwest Virginia Community College offers Certified Nurse Aide training through Workforce/Continuing Education with classes scheduled based on community demand.
SVCC Workforce offers Nurse Aide Training with multiple cohorts at Alberta and other sites; typical schedules include evening classes with weekend clinicals or daytime formats. Tuition is listed with FastForward grants available to reduce costs for eligible Virginians.
Virginia Board of Nursing–approved CNA program with 120 total hours (80 classroom, 20 lab, 40 clinical) offered in day, evening, and weekend formats. Job placement support is available.
Total Cost: $1,550Total Hours: 120Duration: 5 weeks
Germanna’s Certified Nurse Aide is a 7-week program using HCT 101 and HCT 102 with classroom, lab, and clinical instruction based at the Stafford County Center. Evening cohorts often include weekend clinicals.
Laurel Ridge offers a Nurse Aide course (NUR 27) that teaches essential patient care skills through classroom, lab, and clinical experiences, with offerings at the Luray-Page County Center. Funding options include FastForward and G3 last-dollar assistance for eligible students.
MGCC’s Nurse Aide program provides at least 120 hours of lecture, lab, and instructor-led clinical training, with CPR/First Aid included for clinical eligibility. FastForward financial assistance may reduce tuition for eligible Virginia residents.
Heart to Heart offers a 5-week, 140-hour Hybrid Nurse Aide program combining online coursework with in-person skills training and clinicals. Tuition assistance and scholarships are available, and upcoming classes are posted with schedules and pricing.
Total Cost: $1,582Total Hours: 140Duration: 5 weeks
Agapé’s Nurse Aide course runs 4–5 weeks and totals 140 hours, including BLS CPR training and certification, with classes offered in day and night formats. Agapé is a state-approved regional test site so students can train and test at the same location.
Virginia Board of Nursing–approved 140 hour Nurse Aide program that can be completed in 4 weeks and teaches core bedside skills with lab and clinical. A hybrid option delivers online theory with in‑person skills and clinical, and day, evening, and weekend schedules are offered.
Germanna offers a 7-week Certified Nurse Aide program delivered through HCT 101, HCT 102 and HCT 115 with classroom, lab, and clinical instruction. The program is part-time and may include online classroom components.
Hybrid nurse aide course combining online lectures with on-site skills lab and clinical at a nursing facility; program totals 140 hours over 4 weeks. Day and evening cohorts available.
CNA program with 100 classroom or lab hours plus 40 clinical hours offered in day, evening, and hybrid formats. Options range from 6 to 12 weeks with small class sizes.
Total Cost: $1,120Total Hours: 140Duration: 6 weeks
Heritage Care Inc. offers a hybrid Nurse Aide training in Northern Virginia with Zoom theory and in-person labs/clinicals at Fairfax Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. The Virginia program is 144 hours and is tuition-free for eligible community members through grants or sponsorships.
NOVA Nursing Academy’s CNA program delivers 120 hours of training (80 classroom, 40 clinical) taught by registered nurses. The school advertises flexible day, evening, and weekend schedules plus sponsorship referral assistance.
VHCC offers an 11-week Nurse Aide class that meets two evenings per week 6:00–9:30 with weekend clinicals. In-state course fee options are listed and FastForward/G3 funding may further reduce student cost.
Board-approved Nurse Aide program with 150 total hours (theory 90, lab 20, clinical 40). Morning cohorts run 7 weeks, evening 8 weeks, and a 10-week weekend option is available.
GCTI’s Virginia-approved CNA program is 150 hours (classroom, skills lab, and 40 clinical hours) with small class sizes and day or evening schedules. The school advertises career placement assistance and payment plans/scholarships.
Northern Virginia Community College - Woodbridge Campus
✅ State Approved🏫 Community College💻 Online Available⚡ Accelerated Program💵 Financial Aid Available🤝 Job Placement Help🕒 Evening & Weekend Classes Available
NOVA Workforce offers Nurse Aide Preparation (CNA) with hybrid instruction—online lectures plus in-person labs and clinicals, including cohorts based at the Woodbridge Regional Center. The program is FastForward-eligible with funding options and includes employer engagement via the Guaranteed Interview Program.
Evening Nurse Aide course for adults covers classroom and clinical skills aligned to the NNAAP; tuition assistance and a scholarship opportunity are advertised. Two cohorts are listed for 156 hours at 575.
Six-week Nurse Aide training with day or evening cohorts covers patient care skills and includes 100 classroom hours plus 50 clinical hours. Tuition includes the textbook.
Total Cost: $1,400Total Hours: 150Duration: 6 weeks
VBON-approved Nurse Aide program with hybrid/online theory plus in‑person lab and clinical; fast‑track and weekend options available. Flexible schedules include weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
Unique Health School offers a Virginia Board of Nursing–approved Nurse Aide Training Program totaling 120 hours with classroom, lab, and clinical, available in 4‑week day or 5‑week evening formats.
Total Cost: $1,175Total Hours: 120Duration: 4 weeks
Dominion Health Education Center offers an 8-week hybrid CNA program with online video lectures and evening in-person skills labs and clinicals. Tuition is 1400.
Family 1st of Virginia provides Board-approved CNA training with multiple formats: 4-week daytime, 7-week evening, and a self-paced online option. Recent promotions list tuition from 900.
TMT’s Virginia Board of Nursing–approved CNA program provides classroom, lab, and clinical training at its Hampton campus with job placement assistance. Day and evening cohorts are offered and payment plans are available.
VPCC’s noncredit CNA program through Workforce Development includes lecture, skills lab, and a clinical internship; tuition covers materials, BLS certification, background/drug screen, a clinical kit, and an exam voucher. Classes are commonly offered in 8‑week day or evening formats.
Hampton University’s Workforce Development Enterprise offers an 8-week CNA program combining classroom, skills lab, and clinical rotations with at least 40 hours of direct patient care; day and evening options.
Virginia Board-approved 140-hour CNA training offered in Charlottesville with day, evening, and weekend options; the day track completes in 4 weeks. Classroom and clinical training provided; state exam fee is additional.
Moon River Nursing Careers offers a 140-hour blended Nurse Aide/CNA program completed in 5 weeks, combining online theory, skills lab, and clinicals. Day, evening, and weekend options are available.
Total Cost: $2,150Total Hours: 140Duration: 5 weeks
Classic Nurses Services Inc. Academy offers hands-on CNA training in Alexandria with flexible scheduling options and PM classes available. The CNA program cost is listed as 1400.
State-approved 140-hour CNA program with day, evening, and weekend options; daytime cohort completes in 4 weeks and includes one week of clinicals. Tuition is listed as 1300 and includes materials and lab supplies.
Total Cost: $1,300Total Hours: 140Duration: 4 weeks
NOVA Workforce offers Nurse Aide (CNA) preparation with hybrid online lectures, in-person labs held at NOVA locations including Alexandria, and supervised clinicals; FastForward/FANTIC/G3 funding may be available and CNA students are eligible for NOVA’s Guaranteed Interview Program.
These 22 programs offer weekend CNA classes in Virginia, 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.
Southside Virginia Community College - Keysville
✅ State Approved🏫 Community College💵 Financial Aid Available📅 Weekend Classes Available
SVCC’s Workforce Nurse Aide Training at the Keysville campus blends classroom, skills lab, and clinical practice with set daytime and some Saturday sessions. FastForward funding may reduce tuition for eligible students.
Southwest Virginia Community College offers Certified Nurse Aide training through Workforce/Continuing Education with classes scheduled based on community demand.
SVCC Workforce offers Nurse Aide Training with multiple cohorts at Alberta and other sites; typical schedules include evening classes with weekend clinicals or daytime formats. Tuition is listed with FastForward grants available to reduce costs for eligible Virginians.
Virginia Board of Nursing–approved CNA program with 120 total hours (80 classroom, 20 lab, 40 clinical) offered in day, evening, and weekend formats. Job placement support is available.
Total Cost: $1,550Total Hours: 120Duration: 5 weeks
Germanna’s Certified Nurse Aide is a 7-week program using HCT 101 and HCT 102 with classroom, lab, and clinical instruction based at the Stafford County Center. Evening cohorts often include weekend clinicals.
Laurel Ridge offers a Nurse Aide course (NUR 27) that teaches essential patient care skills through classroom, lab, and clinical experiences, with offerings at the Luray-Page County Center. Funding options include FastForward and G3 last-dollar assistance for eligible students.
Virginia Board of Nursing–approved 140 hour Nurse Aide program that can be completed in 4 weeks and teaches core bedside skills with lab and clinical. A hybrid option delivers online theory with in‑person skills and clinical, and day, evening, and weekend schedules are offered.
The CNA program provides 145 hours over 6 weeks with day and weekend options, offered in in‑person or hybrid formats; tuition includes uniform, background check, drug screen, CPR, textbook, equipment, and first state exam.
Total Cost: $2,000Total Hours: 145Duration: 6 weeks
CNA program with 100 classroom or lab hours plus 40 clinical hours offered in day, evening, and hybrid formats. Options range from 6 to 12 weeks with small class sizes.
Total Cost: $1,120Total Hours: 140Duration: 6 weeks
NOVA Nursing Academy’s CNA program delivers 120 hours of training (80 classroom, 40 clinical) taught by registered nurses. The school advertises flexible day, evening, and weekend schedules plus sponsorship referral assistance.
VHCC offers an 11-week Nurse Aide class that meets two evenings per week 6:00–9:30 with weekend clinicals. In-state course fee options are listed and FastForward/G3 funding may further reduce student cost.
Board-approved Nurse Aide program with 150 total hours (theory 90, lab 20, clinical 40). Morning cohorts run 7 weeks, evening 8 weeks, and a 10-week weekend option is available.
Northern Virginia Community College - Woodbridge Campus
✅ State Approved🏫 Community College💻 Online Available⚡ Accelerated Program💵 Financial Aid Available🤝 Job Placement Help🕒 Evening & Weekend Classes Available
NOVA Workforce offers Nurse Aide Preparation (CNA) with hybrid instruction—online lectures plus in-person labs and clinicals, including cohorts based at the Woodbridge Regional Center. The program is FastForward-eligible with funding options and includes employer engagement via the Guaranteed Interview Program.
Bryant & Stratton College’s Virginia Nurse Aide training is a 140-hour weekend program delivered in person over about 7.5 weeks, combining theory, lab, and four 10-hour clinical days.
Virginia Health Services’ Earn-As-You-Learn CNA Apprenticeship is a paid, accelerated training held on day shift at the EEE Center and partner facilities. Training lasts about six weeks with rotating weekends and leads to placement as a CNA upon successful completion.
VBON-approved Nurse Aide program with hybrid/online theory plus in‑person lab and clinical; fast‑track and weekend options available. Flexible schedules include weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
Virginia Board-approved 140-hour CNA training offered in Charlottesville with day, evening, and weekend options; the day track completes in 4 weeks. Classroom and clinical training provided; state exam fee is additional.
Moon River Nursing Careers offers a 140-hour blended Nurse Aide/CNA program completed in 5 weeks, combining online theory, skills lab, and clinicals. Day, evening, and weekend options are available.
Total Cost: $2,150Total Hours: 140Duration: 5 weeks
State-approved 140-hour CNA program with day, evening, and weekend options; daytime cohort completes in 4 weeks and includes one week of clinicals. Tuition is listed as 1300 and includes materials and lab supplies.
Total Cost: $1,300Total Hours: 140Duration: 4 weeks
NOVA Workforce offers Nurse Aide (CNA) preparation with hybrid online lectures, in-person labs held at NOVA locations including Alexandria, and supervised clinicals; FastForward/FANTIC/G3 funding may be available and CNA students are eligible for NOVA’s Guaranteed Interview Program.
Virginia offers strong opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistants, combining steady employment growth with a diverse range of healthcare employers. With more than 39,750 CNAs working statewide and over 630 healthcare facilities, there are many paths to begin or advance a CNA career. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Virginia has over 290 nursing homes, 95 hospitals, and 245 home health agencies employing CNAs. While these counts are based on CMS data and may not capture every facility in the state, they demonstrate the wide scope of employment opportunities available.
Salary Overview
The median annual income for all workers in Virginia is about $49,920, or $24.00 per hour. CNAs in Virginia earn a median of $36,820 annually, which equals about $17.70 per hour. While CNA wages are below the state average, they offer a solid starting point in healthcare, with room to advance into higher-paying positions such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), or specialized technician roles. Many CNAs also gain valuable patient care experience that can serve as a foundation for long-term clinical careers.
Job Outlook
The outlook for CNA employment in Virginia remains positive. With 39,750 CNAs currently employed and continued growth in healthcare demand—particularly due to the state's aging population—CNA jobs are expected to remain plentiful. Major employers include Sentara Healthcare, Inova Health System, VCU Health, Bon Secours Health System, and Carilion Clinic, which hire CNAs across hospitals, long-term care centers, rehabilitation facilities, and home health agencies. The highest concentration of CNA jobs can be found in Northern Virginia, the Hampton Roads region, and the Richmond metropolitan area, but opportunities extend across all regions of the state.
Becoming a CNA in Virginia is a quick and affordable way to begin working in the healthcare field. Training programs can typically be completed in a few weeks, allowing new graduates to enter the workforce quickly. With more than 290 nursing homes and a growing number of hospitals and home health providers, Virginia offers CNAs a wide range of work settings—from large urban hospitals to community-based care facilities. Many training programs are offered through community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare employers, often serving as the first step toward LPN or RN licensure. You can also explore free CNA training, online CNA courses, or accelerated CNA programs across the state.
CNA Salaries across Virginia
CNA wages in Virginia vary by region, with higher pay typically found in metropolitan areas such as Northern Virginia, Richmond, and Virginia Beach, compared to smaller or rural areas. Below is a breakdown of CNA salaries across the state.
Compare CNA salaries across different metropolitan areas and regions in Virginia.
Salary data includes both annual and hourly wages for nursing assistants.
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Virginia
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Virginia?
In Virginia, 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 Virginia?
CNA classes in Virginia 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 Virginia?
Yes. Many nursing homes, hospitals, and state workforce programs in Virginia 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 Virginia?
Several schools in Virginia 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 Virginia?
Yes, some schools and healthcare providers in Virginia 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 Virginia?
To become a CNA in Virginia, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP), and be listed on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry. The process is overseen by the Virginia Department of Health Professions.
I’m a CNA in another state. Can I transfer my license to Virginia?
Yes. Virginia allows CNAs certified in other states to transfer their license through reciprocity. This process places you on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry without retaking training. Learn more in our guide to CNA License Reciprocity in Virginia.
How often do I need to renew my CNA license in Virginia?
CNAs in Virginia 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 Virginia?
You can verify your status on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry online. For step-by-step instructions, visit our guide on CNA License & Registration in Virginia.
How much do CNAs earn in Virginia?
The median CNA salary in Virginia is $36,820 per year, or about $17.70 per hour. Pay can vary by region, employer, and years of experience. Many CNAs in Virginia also use the role as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Where do CNAs work in Virginia?
Certified Nursing Assistants in Virginia 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.