CNA Classes & Programs in Portsmouth, Virginia
Get Information from CNA Programs in Portsmouth and Nearby
Aspiring CNAs in Portsmouth can choose from 2 approved training programs designed to help launch careers in patient care throughout this historic port city within the greater Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News metro area. Each program is structured to meet state requirements while accommodating different student needs.
CNA classes in Portsmouth leverage connections with local hospitals and skilled nursing facilities where hands-on learning complements classroom study. Graduates are prepared to pursue entry-level roles at places like Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center or Portside Health & Rehab Center after completing their education requirements successfully.
In the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News region, CNAs earn around $35,760 annually—offering prospective students important salary context when considering training options locally.
Quick Facts About Portsmouth
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Population97,384Residents
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CNA Programs2State-approved Programs
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Median Income$57,154Median 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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Facilities7CMS Healthcare Facilities3 Nursing Homes • 2 Hospitals • 2 Home Health Agencies
Get Information from CNA Programs in Portsmouth and Nearby
Schools in Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth
Students in Portsmouth can choose from 2 CNA classes focused on preparing candidates for Virginia certification and successful entry into healthcare roles. These programs combine classroom instruction with essential clinical experience, enabling graduates to qualify for state registry placement while gaining practical skills valued by employers throughout Portsmouth’s healthcare sector, where demand remains steady for certified assistants.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: not available in Portsmouth, but free classes are available in other cities throughout Virginia.
Accelerated programs: not available in Portsmouth but are offered in other cities throughout Virginia.
Online programs not available in Portsmouth but are offered in other cities throughout Virginia.
Portsmouth Public Schools - Manor High School
Program Details
Tidewater Community College - Portsmouth Campus
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in Portsmouth
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
CNA jobs in Portsmouth are part of the broader Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News region, where approximately 8,100 certified nursing assistants work across varied care settings according to BLS OEWS (May 2023) statistics. The combination of local hospitals, skilled nursing centers, and multiple home health agencies creates ongoing job opportunities for qualified assistants seeking to begin or advance their careers nearby.
CNA salary in Portsmouth aligns with metro-wide compensation levels: In the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News area, CNAs earn a median annual salary of $35,760 or $17.19 per hour based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) data. This is just below the statewide median pay rate of $36,820, providing a benchmark specific to southeastern Virginia's labor market conditions.
The city features several CMS-certified employers, including Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center—a voluntary non-profit hospital—and NMC Portsmouth serving military families; major long-term care centers such as Portside Health & Rehab Center (132 beds), Portsmouth Health and Rehab (120 beds), Autumn Care Of Portsmouth (108 beds); and specialized providers like Edmarc Hospice For Children and Family Care Senior Solutions, offering additional career paths within Portsmouth’s diverse healthcare system.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond Portsmouth? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Hampton, Smithfield, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and Norfolk, 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 Portsmouth (3 facilities)
3 nursing homes in Portsmouth providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in Portsmouth (2 facilities)
2 hospitals in Portsmouth offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center
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Home Health Agencies Hiring CNAs in Portsmouth (2 facilities)
2 home health agencies in Portsmouth providing CNA career opportunities. Source: CMS home health agencies (July 2025)
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Morrison Home Health Agency
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Requirements to Work as a CNA in Portsmouth, VA
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Portsmouth, 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Portsmouth?
Most CNA programs in Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth?
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 Portsmouth?
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 Portsmouth?
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 Portsmouth?
Yes, some schools in Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Hampton, Smithfield, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and Norfolk. 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 Portsmouth?
CNAs in Portsmouth 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.