CNA Programs & Career Opportunities in Washington
Washington is home to 172 CNA training programs and over 360 healthcare facilities. Our guide currently highlights 74 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 Washington.
Get Information from CNA Programs in Washington
- Major Cities for CNA Careers in Washington
- Training & Certification Requirements in Washington
- Explore CNA Classes by City in Washington
- Free CNA Classes in Washington
- Online CNA Classes in Washington
- 4-Week CNA Classes in Washington
- Evening Classes in Washington
- Weekend Classes in Washington
- Salary & Job Outlook as a CNA in Washington
- Salary Overview by Area
- Frequently Asked Questions
Starting your CNA Career in Washington
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Training Programs172State-approved Programs
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Cities74Cities Currently Covered
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Healthcare Facilities360+Total Facilities
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Median Annual Salary$46,000Median Yearly Pay
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Median Hourly Salary$22.12Median Per Hour
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Total CNAs Employed36,820CNAs Working Statewide
With over 170 CNA training programs statewide, Washington offers extensive educational opportunities in major metropolitan areas such as Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Bellevue, and Kent. Currently, about 36,820 Certified Nursing Assistants work across Washington, reflecting steady demand for qualified healthcare professionals. Students completing Washington CNA programs can expect median earnings of 46,000 annually and 22.12 per hour, among the highest CNA wages in the country.
With a population of nearly 8 million residents and a healthcare system known for both innovation and strong labor standards, Washington provides excellent career opportunities for CNA graduates. From major health systems such as UW Medicine, Providence, MultiCare Health System, PeaceHealth, and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health to hundreds of hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies statewide, Certified Nursing Assistants play a vital role in supporting patient care across acute, post-acute, and community-based healthcare settings.
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Major Cities for CNA Careers in Washington
Explore CNA opportunities in Washington's largest cities and metropolitan areas.
Training & Certification Requirements in Washington
Before you enroll in a training program, it's important to know exactly what Washington requires to become a Nursing Assistant–Certified (NAC), Washington's designation for Certified Nursing Assistants. Meeting these standards ensures you're eligible to test, be credentialed by the state, and work in approved healthcare settings.
Eligibility
- Age requirement: Candidates must be at least 18 years old to work as a Nursing Assistant–Certified in Washington.
- Program enrollment: You must complete a Washington State Department of Health–approved Nursing Assistant Training Program that meets requirements under WAC 246-841A. Programs are offered by community colleges, private training providers, and licensed healthcare facilities.
- Background check: Candidates must meet Washington’s background check requirements prior to clinical placement or employment. Certain criminal convictions may disqualify individuals from working in long-term care or other regulated healthcare settings.
- Good standing: Individuals with substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of property are not eligible for credentialing or employment as nursing assistants.
Training Hours & Clinicals
Washington requires completion of a state-approved nursing assistant training program totaling at least 108 hours. This includes 35 hours of theory instruction, 33 hours of skills lab training, and 40 hours of supervised clinical experience in an approved clinical 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 demonstrate competency in required foundational skills. Healthcare facilities may employ nursing assistant trainees for a limited period while training and testing requirements are completed, in accordance with federal and state rules.
Competency Exam (Knowledge & Skills)
After completing training, candidates must pass Washington’s state-approved nursing assistant competency examination. The exam includes:
- Knowledge test: A 70-question multiple-choice exam (60 scored questions plus 10 pretest items) administered by Credentia on behalf of the Washington State Department of Health. The exam covers infection control, safety, residents' rights, communication, and personal care. Oral or audio versions may be available for eligible candidates.
- Skills evaluation: Demonstration of five randomly selected nurse aide skills, including mandatory hand hygiene and required critical steps. All critical elements must be performed correctly to pass.
Candidates may attempt the competency examination up to four total times. Candidates who do not pass within four attempts must complete a new approved training program before retesting.
Credentialing & Working as an NAC
Once both exam components are successfully passed, your credential is issued as Nursing Assistant–Certified (NAC) by the Washington State Department of Health. Employment eligibility is tracked in accordance with Department of Health credentialing and federal OBRA nurse aide registry requirements. Employers must verify your active credential status prior to hire.
NACs may work in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, and other licensed healthcare settings, depending on employer and facility requirements.
Renewal
Washington NAC credentials must be renewed annually on or before your birthday. To maintain an active credential, you must submit the required renewal application and fee to the Washington State Department of Health.
In addition, to remain eligible under federal OBRA requirements, you must not have a break of more than 24 consecutive months without performing paid work as a nursing assistant. Failure to renew or meet work requirements may result in inactive status and loss of work eligibility.
Reciprocity
Washington offers credentialing by endorsement for nursing assistants certified in other U.S. states. Applicants must hold an active certification in good standing and provide verification that their training and competency evaluation met federal OBRA requirements. Additional state requirements, including background screening, must be satisfied before credential issuance.
Costs
Washington nursing assistant exam fees typically total around $150–$160 for both the knowledge and skills components. Fees are paid at the time of scheduling. The knowledge exam is administered by Credentia, while skills testing fees may vary by training program or regional test site.
Under federal law, Medicare- or Medicaid-certified nursing facilities must pay for or reimburse nursing assistant 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: Washington State Department of Health — Nursing Assistant Certification Requirements, Credentia — Washington Nurse Aide Testing, Credentia — Washington Nurse Aide Handbook, Washington Nursing Assistant Program, 42 CFR 483.152 — Federal Nurse Aide Training Requirements
Explore CNA Classes by City in Washington
Explore CNA classes in Washington by city. We currently feature 74 cities, each with a full list of CNA training courses, salary details, and selected healthcare facilities.
Free CNA Classes in Washington
Looking for free CNA classes and training programs in Washington? These 38 options are available at no cost through employer sponsorship, state support, or other financial assistance.
Clover Park Technical – Garfield-Palouse High School
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Emerald Care
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Providence St. Joseph’s Hospital
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EmpRes at Buena Vista
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Lakeland Village
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North Valley Hospital/Nursing Home
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River Mountain Training Center
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Regency Harmony House Rehabilitation & Nursing Center
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WhidbeyHealth Medical Center
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Avamere Olympic Rehabilitation of Sequim
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Online CNA Classes in Washington
These 27 programs offer CNA classes online in Washington, 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.
CNA Training School of Nursing
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Upper Valley Nursing CNA Training
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Walla Walla Community College
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Westfield Nursing Assistants Training Institute (Conditional Approval)
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Care Plus Home Health, Inc
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Advanced CNA School
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NAT Healthcare Academy
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Highline Community College
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Sunrise Caregiver Training on Whidbey
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Big Bend Community College
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4-Week CNA Classes in Washington
These 47 programs offer accelerated CNA training in Washington, 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 Washington, making them ideal if you want to start your healthcare career quickly.
Providence St. Joseph’s Hospital
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EmpRes at Buena Vista
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Iroko Bridge Academy
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Regency Harmony House Rehabilitation & Nursing Center
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WhidbeyHealth Medical Center
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CNA Training School of Nursing
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Upper Valley Nursing CNA Training
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Goodheart Training - Sunnyside
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Westfield Nursing Assistants Training Institute (Conditional Approval)
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Sunrise Caregiver Training
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Evening Classes in Washington
These 26 programs offer evening CNA classes in Washington, 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.
Westfield Nursing Assistants Training Institute (Conditional Approval)
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Tacoma Community College Nursing Assistant Certified Training Program – Gig Harbor Campus
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Centralia College
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Care Plus Home Health, Inc
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Advanced CNA School
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Excel Health Careers Training (Conditional Approval)
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Grays Harbor College
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Peninsula College - Clallam County
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Clark County Career Development Center
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Bellingham Technical College
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Weekend Classes in Washington
These 20 programs offer weekend CNA classes in Washington, 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.
North Care Training
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Northcare Training
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Care Plus Home Health, Inc
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Advanced CNA School
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NAT Healthcare Academy
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Excel Health Careers Training (Conditional Approval)
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NAT Health Care Academy
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Whatcom Community College - Whatcom County
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Vital Healthcare Training
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ProCare Academy of Washington - Olympia
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Salary & Job Outlook as a CNA in Washington
Washington is one of the strongest-paying states in the country for Certified Nursing Assistants, supported by a well-funded healthcare system and consistently high demand for long-term and acute care services. With more than 36,820 CNAs working statewide and over 363 healthcare facilities, Washington offers solid employment opportunities for both new and experienced CNAs. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the state includes more than 194 nursing homes, 100 hospitals, and 69 home health agencies that rely on CNAs. While CMS data may not capture every healthcare employer, it illustrates the depth and diversity of Washington’s care infrastructure.
Salary Overview
The median annual income for all workers in Washington is approximately $59,920, or $28.81 per hour. Certified Nursing Assistants in Washington earn a median of $46,000 annually, which equals about $22.12 per hour. CNA wages in Washington are among the highest in the U.S., reflecting higher cost-of-living areas and strong labor protections. Many CNAs further increase earnings through unionized positions, shift differentials, overtime, and advancement into Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) roles.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for CNAs in Washington remains very strong. With 36,820 CNAs currently employed and a steady supply of healthcare facilities across the state, demand is expected to remain stable or increase. Washington’s aging population, expanding home health sector, and ongoing need for long-term care services continue to drive CNA employment.
Major employment hubs include the Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue metro area, Spokane, Vancouver, Everett, and the Olympic Peninsula. Large healthcare systems such as UW Medicine, Providence, MultiCare Health System, PeaceHealth, and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health employ CNAs across hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient centers, and home health programs.
Washington also has a strong home- and community-based care workforce, creating additional opportunities for CNAs who prefer one-on-one patient care or flexible schedules. As many CNAs advance into nursing or allied health roles, workforce turnover continues to generate regular job openings across the state.
If you are considering this career path, explore our list of CNA training programs in Washington or learn how to get certified through our CNA License & Registration guide.
Why Become a CNA in Washington?
Becoming a CNA in Washington is a fast and practical entry point into the healthcare field with above-average earning potential. Training programs can often be completed in a few weeks, allowing you to transition quickly into paid employment. With more than 194 nursing homes, 100 hospitals, and a strong network of home health agencies, CNAs in Washington benefit from diverse employment options. The state’s community colleges, private training centers, and healthcare facility–based programs make CNA education widely accessible. For many, CNA work serves as both a stable career and a pathway toward LPN or RN licensure. You can also explore free CNA classes, online CNA programs, or accelerated CNA programs available throughout Washington.
CNA Salaries Across Washington
CNA wages vary by region. Urban and high-cost areas such as Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, and the Puget Sound region typically offer higher wages, while rural areas may fall closer to the statewide median. Below is a breakdown of CNA salaries across Washington.
Sources: BLS OEWS (May 2023), CMS Nursing Homes (July 2025), CMS Hospitals (July 2025), CMS Home Health Agencies (July 2025)
CNA Salary by Area in Washington
Compare CNA salaries across different metropolitan areas and regions in Washington. Salary data includes both annual and hourly wages for nursing assistants.
| Area | Annual salary | Hourly salary |
|---|---|---|
| Washington (statewide) | $46,000 | $22.12 |
| Bellingham | $42,130 | $20.26 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale | $45,690 | $21.97 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $45,130 | $21.70 |
| Longview | $44,390 | $21.34 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $44,980 | $21.63 |
| Olympia-Tumwater | $45,050 | $21.66 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $48,440 | $23.29 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $43,800 | $21.06 |
| Walla Walla | $43,830 | $21.07 |
| Wenatchee | $45,120 | $21.69 |
| Yakima | $41,980 | $20.18 |
Source: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in Washington
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in Washington?
In Washington, CNA programs require a minimum of 108 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 Washington?
CNA classes in Washington 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 Washington?
Yes. Many nursing homes, hospitals, and state workforce programs in Washington 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 Washington?
Several schools in Washington 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 Washington?
Yes, some schools and healthcare providers in Washington 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 Washington?
To become a CNA in Washington, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass the Nursing Assistant Certification (NAC) Exam, and be listed on the Washington Nurse Aide Registry. The process is overseen by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH).
I’m a CNA in another state. Can I transfer my license to Washington?
Yes. Washington allows CNAs certified in other states to transfer their license through reciprocity. This process places you on the Washington Nurse Aide Registry without retaking training. Learn more in our guide to CNA License Reciprocity in Washington.
How often do I need to renew my CNA license in Washington?
CNAs in Washington 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 Washington?
You can verify your status on the Washington Nurse Aide Registry online. For step-by-step instructions, visit our guide on CNA License & Registration in Washington.
How much do CNAs earn in Washington?
The median CNA salary in Washington is $46,000 per year, or about $22.12 per hour. Pay can vary by region, employer, and years of experience. Many CNAs in Washington also use the role as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Where do CNAs work in Washington?
Certified Nursing Assistants in Washington 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.