CNA Classes & Programs in Norfolk, Virginia
Get Information from CNA Programs in Norfolk and Nearby
Aspiring CNAs in Norfolk can choose from 3 local CNA programs designed to support their journey into healthcare careers. These state-approved options offer instruction tailored toward meeting exam requirements while providing hands-on learning experiences relevant to hospital or long-term care environments within Norfolk’s urban community.
The city features a range of potential workplaces: eight nursing homes—including Harbor'S Edge—and three hospitals such as Sentara Leigh Hospital and Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. Three home health agencies serve Norfolk’s residents as well. In the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News metro area, CNAs earn around $35,760 annually—slightly below statewide averages but reflective of typical earnings throughout southeastern Virginia communities.
This area also offers one free CNA class option plus accelerated training at select locations—making it possible for some candidates to complete their studies more quickly before entering Norfolk’s active healthcare job market.
Quick Facts About Norfolk
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Population236,973Residents
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CNA Programs3State-approved Programs
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Median Income$60,998Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$17.19Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$35,760Median Annual Salary
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Facilities14CMS Healthcare Facilities8 Nursing Homes • 3 Hospitals • 3 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Norfolk and Nearby
Schools in Norfolk 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 Norfolk
Norfolk’s 3 CNA programs prepare students for state registry placement through classroom learning and skill-based instruction focused on patient care techniques. Free CNA training and accelerated program options make it possible to complete coursework efficiently while building confidence ahead of certification exams. With career opportunities in healthcare locally where CNAs are needed consistently across various settings, these classes help launch successful professional paths.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: available in Norfolk through various funding sources including employer sponsorship and grants.
Accelerated programs: available in Norfolk and are usually 4-week programs, sometimes 3 or 5 weeks.
Online programs not available in Norfolk but are offered in other cities throughout Virginia.
Autumn Care of Norfolk
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Tidewater Community College Workforce Development Center
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Training Solutions
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CNA Employment Opportunities in Norfolk
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$35,760Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$17.19Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs8,100CNA Positions
In the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News region, approximately 8,100 certified nursing assistants are currently employed according to official statistics. The steady presence of large hospitals alongside multiple long-term care facilities ensures ongoing opportunities for new graduates seeking stable careers as CNAs within this metropolitan area. CNA jobs in Norfolk are available in a variety of healthcare settings.
CNA salary in Norfolk is best represented by regional metrics: In this metro region, CNAs earn around $35,760 per year (equivalent to $17.19 per hour), based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. This figure is slightly lower than the statewide median salary of $36,820 but reflects prevailing wage levels among major employers locally.
Nursing homes like Harbor'S Edge (33 beds) and Lake Taylor Hosp (192 beds) stand out among major long-term care centers employing nurse aides in Norfolk; Waterside Health & Rehab Center also provides substantial employment opportunities with its sizable bed count. Hospitals such as Sentara Leigh Hospital—a voluntary non-profit—and Sentara Norfolk General Hospital anchor acute medical services locally alongside Children’s Hospital Of The Kings Daughters Inc., while Amedisys Home Health Care represents another notable employer among home health agencies operating within city limits.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Norfolk? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Hampton, Portsmouth, and Williamsburg, or browse the Virginia 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.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in Norfolk (8 facilities)
8 nursing homes in Norfolk providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Norfolk (3 facilities)
3 hospitals in Norfolk offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
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Childrens Hospital Of The Kings Daughters Inc
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Norfolk (3 facilities)
3 home health agencies in Norfolk providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
Amedisys Home Health Care
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Hope In-Home Care Llc
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Norfolk, VA
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Norfolk, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by Virginia. These include completing a Virginia Board of Nursing–approved Nurse Aide Education Program, passing both parts of the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam administered by Credentia, and being listed on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 120 total hours of training (80 classroom + 40 clinical hours)
- At least 24 hours of classroom 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 per Code of Virginia § 32.1-162.9:1
- Placement on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry maintained by the Virginia Board of Nursing
Once certified, you can work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies throughout Norfolk and across Virginia.
Already certified in another state? You may qualify for reciprocity (endorsement) to transfer your certification into Virginia without retraining. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in Virginia guide.
For full details on training, testing, certification renewal, and maintaining an active listing, see our step-by-step CNA License & Registration in Virginia 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 Norfolk
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Norfolk?
Most CNA programs in Norfolk 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 Norfolk?
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 Norfolk?
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 Norfolk?
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 Norfolk?
Yes, some schools in Norfolk 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 Norfolk there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Hampton, Portsmouth, and Williamsburg. You can also look at the Virginia state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the Virginia CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in Virginia, you must be added to the official state registry. See our Virginia CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in Norfolk?
CNAs in Norfolk 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.