How to Become a CNA in Florida

Are you wondering how to become a CNA in Florida? well, the simple answer is, that to become a CNA in Florida, you only have to pass the CNA State License Exam. But as with everything in life, nothing is that simple. First, there are some basic requirements you have to meet to be even considered to take the exam, and second, you have to study and prepare to pass the exam.

Are you still interested? Keep reading to get the full breakdown of how to become a CNA in Florida.

How to Become a CNA in Florida

If you love working with the direct care of your patients and clients, then learning how to become a CNA in Florida may be the right next step for you.

Certified Nursing Assistants have the crucial role of healing and improving the lives of those around them. They also ensure daily healthcare operations are able to function normally—something that would be impossible without help from CNAs. When you decide to take the next step in your healthcare career and become a CNA in Florida, it’s important to understand all the requirements you must first fulfill to begin your journey toward being employed in your new profession. If you plan to pursue this career, then you have to:

Meet the Basic Requirements

To apply for the state license CNA exam in Florida you have to meet the following criteria:

  • Have a High School Diploma or a GED or,
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Be allowed to work in the US
  • Pass a level 2 Livescan Background check (for more information, click here to access the Board of Nursing CNA page. Scroll to the bottom of the page to find the information about electronic fingerprinting and applicants with disciplinary and criminal history)
  • Register and pay the state exam fee ($155)

Pass the Florida CNA License State Exam

The Florida CNA state exam is a two-part exam. To gain your license, you have to pass both parts successfully.
If you fail the first time, don’t worry. A potential CNA gets several attempts. Even If you are “Challenging” the exam (more on this here) and fail three times, you will have the opportunity to retake the test after completing a state 120-hour approved CNA program.

Part 1 consists of a skills demonstration. There are 22 skills in the CNA curriculum. On the day of the exam, 5 of the 22 skills will be selected at random, and, you will be asked to demonstrate proficiency.

Part 2 consists of written knowledge. There is plenty to know about what is involved in being a CNA. On the day of the exam, you will have 90 minutes to complete 60 multiple-choice questions.

The same day you take your state exam you will know if you passed. If you pass, then you are an officially licensed CNA in the state of Florida. Within 2 to 3 weeks you will receive your State License.
If you don’t pass, you will receive a breakdown of the areas you need to improve for your next attempt.

Do you have more questions?

How do I prepare to take the State Exam?

  • You can self-study (watching CNA exam skills YouTube videos, taking online quizzes),
  • You can take an “Exam Prep” class, where you quickly learn the skills to be tested and have the opportunity to take practice written exams. These classes are 2 to 3 days long.

Click HERE for our “Exam Prep Class” information page.

  • You can take a state-approved 120-hour CNA training program. The most comprehensive way to get ready and guarantee your success. Plenty of hands-on practice of the skills to be tested during class and real-life situations (40 hours of clinical rotations) and in-depth practice of the written material for the written exams.

Click HERE for our 120-hour CNA training program.

Where do I Register to take the State Exam?

To register for the state exam, you do it through the Prometric website. You can click here to access it.
If you want a step-by-step breakdown of how to register and where to go to take the exam, please click here. This link will take you to our Prometric CNA registration page.

Where can I find more information about the Live Scan background check requirements?

For general information about the Level 2 Live Scan Background Check and the offenses that may exclude a candidate from being approved, please click here