CNA Classes in Idaho | Certified Nursing Assistant Training Programs

Idaho DHW Approved Programs

CNA Classes & Training Programs in Idaho

Launch your healthcare career in the Gem State with state-approved certification programs. Idaho's rapidly growing population creates strong demand for qualified CNAs across urban and rural communities.

Find Programs Near You How to Get Certified

120

Training Hours Required

$130

State Exam Fee

$34,720

Average Annual Salary

4-8

Weeks to Complete

About CNA Certification in Idaho

Growing Healthcare Demand in the Mountain West

Idaho offers excellent opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistants, with one of the fastest-growing populations in the nation creating increasing demand for healthcare workers. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) oversees CNA certification through the Bureau of Facility Standards, requiring completion of a state-approved training program and successful passage of the competency evaluation administered by Headmaster (D&S Diversified Technologies).

From Boise's expanding healthcare hub to community hospitals and long-term care facilities in smaller communities throughout the state, Idaho provides diverse employment opportunities for CNAs. The state's combination of affordable cost of living, outdoor lifestyle, and growing job market makes it increasingly attractive for healthcare workers. Major healthcare systems like St. Luke's Health System, Saint Alphonsus Health System, and Kootenai Health serve as primary employers, while the state's aging rural population creates consistent demand in skilled nursing facilities throughout Idaho's smaller communities.

One of fastest-growing states in the nation

Affordable cost of living with competitive wages

Community college programs statewide

High demand in urban and rural areas

Idaho CNA Quick Facts

Training Hours 120 hours minimum

Classroom Hours 78 hours

Clinical Hours 42 hours (16 in SNF)

Exam Format 75 questions + 5 skills

Exam Fee $130 (written + skills)

Regulatory Body Idaho DHW

Registry ID Nurse Aide Registry

Training Programs

Find CNA Training Programs in Idaho

Browse Idaho DHW-approved nursing assistant training programs. Programs are available through community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare facilities throughout the Gem State.

Browse CNA Schools in Idaho

Explore our directory of state-approved nursing assistant training programs. Filter by location, cost, and program type to find the perfect fit for your career goals.

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Certification Process

How to Become a CNA in Idaho

Follow these three steps to earn your CNA certification and start your healthcare career in Idaho.

Complete Approved Training

Enroll in a Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program approved by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Idaho requires a minimum of 120 total training hours—78 hours of classroom and laboratory instruction plus 42 hours of supervised clinical experience, with at least 16 clinical hours in a skilled nursing facility. Idaho community colleges like College of Western Idaho, College of Southern Idaho, North Idaho College, and College of Eastern Idaho offer CNA programs statewide. The American Red Cross and various healthcare facilities also provide approved training.

Pass the State Competency Exam

After completing your training program, pass the Idaho Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation administered by Headmaster (D&S Diversified Technologies). The exam consists of two parts: a written (or oral) knowledge test with 75 multiple-choice questions and a 90-minute time limit, and a clinical skills evaluation where you demonstrate 5 randomly selected competencies. The combined exam fee is approximately $130. Testing is available at sites throughout Idaho. You must pass both portions within three attempts and 24 months of completing training.

Background Check & Registry

Complete a criminal background check as required by Idaho law for all healthcare workers. Idaho requires fingerprint-based checks through the Idaho State Police Bureau of Criminal Identification and FBI. The background check typically costs $40-60. Once you pass the competency exam and clear the background check, your name is placed on the Idaho Nurse Aide Registry maintained by the Department of Health and Welfare. Employers must verify your registry status before hiring. Your certification is valid for 24 months from the date of issue.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about CNA certification in Idaho.

Idaho requires 120 hours of training, which typically takes 4-8 weeks to complete depending on program format and scheduling. Full-time accelerated programs at community colleges or private vocational schools can be completed in as little as 3-5 weeks with intensive daily sessions. Part-time evening or weekend programs may take 8-12 weeks to accommodate students who are working or have other commitments. Idaho's community colleges typically offer programs on semester or condensed schedules throughout the year, with some offering accelerated summer sessions. After completing your DHW-approved training program, you'll schedule your competency exam through Headmaster (D&S Diversified Technologies). Both the written and skills portions can usually be completed on the same day, with results typically available within a few business days. The background check process through Idaho State Police typically takes 1-3 weeks. From enrollment to receiving your certification, most students can become fully certified CNAs in Idaho within 6-10 weeks. Given Idaho's significant CNA shortage, particularly in rural areas, many healthcare facilities offer conditional employment while your certification is being processed and may offer sign-on bonuses.

CNA training costs in Idaho typically range from $600 to $1,500 depending on the institution and program type. Community college programs generally cost $600-$1,200 including tuition and fees for Idaho residents—institutions like College of Western Idaho (CWI), College of Southern Idaho (CSI), North Idaho College (NIC), and College of Eastern Idaho (CEI) offer quality training at competitive prices. The American Red Cross Idaho chapters typically charge $1,000-$1,400 for their programs. Private vocational schools may charge $1,200-$1,500+ but may offer more flexible scheduling or accelerated timelines. In addition to tuition, budget approximately $130 for the state competency exam, $40-60 for background checks, plus costs for scrubs/uniforms ($50-$100), textbooks, and any required immunizations or health screenings. Many Idaho nursing homes and healthcare facilities offer free or subsidized CNA training in exchange for a commitment to work at their facility—typically 6-12 months. This is particularly common in rural Idaho where staffing shortages are most acute. Idaho Workforce Development funding through local Idaho Department of Labor offices may also be available for qualifying students.

Idaho permits hybrid CNA training programs that combine online theoretical instruction with mandatory in-person clinical hours, but fully online programs are not approved for state certification. The classroom/didactic portion of your training (78 hours)—covering topics like infection control, patient rights, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, nutrition, documentation, communication, and safety procedures—can sometimes be completed through online coursework at your own pace. However, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare regulations require that clinical training hours (minimum 42 hours, with at least 16 in a skilled nursing facility) be completed in person at an approved healthcare facility under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse. This hands-on component involves practicing essential skills with actual patients. Given Idaho's large geographic area and significant rural population, online theory options are particularly valuable for students in remote areas who may have limited access to classroom-based programs. Several Idaho community colleges and other providers have developed hybrid formats. When searching for programs, look for DHW-approved hybrid options that clearly specify their online vs. in-person requirements. Be cautious of any program advertising as completely online, as graduates would not be eligible for Idaho certification.

Idaho uses Headmaster (D&S Diversified Technologies) as its testing provider for the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation. The exam consists of two parts that are typically taken on the same day at a testing site. The written knowledge test contains 75 multiple-choice questions with a 90-minute time limit. Questions cover essential CNA topics including patient rights and independence, communication and interpersonal skills, infection control, safety and emergency procedures, personal care skills, basic nursing skills, mental health and social service needs, care of cognitively impaired residents, basic restorative services, and relevant Idaho regulations. If you have difficulty reading English, you may request an oral exam format when registering. The clinical skills evaluation requires you to demonstrate competency in 5 randomly selected skills from a standardized list that includes hand hygiene, vital signs measurement (blood pressure, pulse, respirations, temperature), positioning, transfers, ambulation, range of motion exercises, and various personal care tasks. Testing is available at sites throughout Idaho, including Boise, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Twin Falls, Coeur d'Alene, and other locations. The combined exam fee is approximately $130. You have three attempts to pass within 24 months of completing training.

Yes, Idaho accepts CNA certification from other states through reciprocity, but you must apply for endorsement through the Idaho Nurse Aide Registry before working in the state. To transfer your certification, submit a completed Reciprocity Application along with verification of your current certification directly from your previous state's nurse aide registry. Your out-of-state certification must be active and in good standing with no findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of resident property. You'll also need to complete an Idaho criminal background check, including fingerprinting through Idaho State Police and FBI. The reciprocity application fee is approximately $20-35, and processing typically takes 2-4 weeks once all documentation is received. While your application is pending, you cannot legally work as a CNA in Idaho—employers are required to verify registry status before hiring. If your previous state required fewer than 120 training hours, Idaho evaluates applications on a case-by-case basis, generally requiring evidence of equivalent training or work experience. Once approved, your Idaho certification will follow the state's standard 24-month renewal cycle. Idaho is actively recruiting CNAs from other states to address workforce shortages, and many facilities offer relocation assistance.

Certification Maintenance

CNA Certification Renewal in Idaho

Idaho CNA certification is valid for 24 months and must be renewed to remain on the Nurse Aide Registry. To renew your certification, you must have performed at least 8 hours of compensated nursing-related services within the 24-month certification period. This employment must occur in a qualifying healthcare setting under the supervision of a licensed nurse—acceptable settings include nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, assisted living facilities, hospice organizations, and similar healthcare environments. Idaho does not currently require specific Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for CNA renewal beyond federal OBRA requirements, though individual employers typically provide annual in-service training as required by federal regulations—typically 12 hours per year for federally-certified facilities. The renewal application must be submitted to the Idaho Nurse Aide Registry before your certification expires. Idaho charges a renewal fee of approximately $15-25, and you can submit your renewal application online through the DHW portal or by mail. The registry sends renewal notices approximately 60-90 days before your expiration date to the address on file. If your certification expires because you did not meet the work requirement or failed to renew on time, you will need to retake and pass both portions of the competency exam to regain active status. Keep your contact information current with the registry.

Renewal Fee

~$15-25

Renewal Period

Every 24 months

Work Requirement

8 hours in 24 months

CEU Requirement

None (per employer)

Career Outlook

CNA Career Opportunities in Idaho

Rapidly Growing Healthcare Market

Idaho offers CNAs excellent opportunities in one of the nation's fastest-growing states. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, CNAs in Idaho earn a median salary of $34,720 per year, or approximately $16.69 per hour. While this is near the national average, Idaho's significantly lower cost of living—particularly compared to neighboring West Coast states—means these wages provide strong purchasing power. In the Boise metropolitan area and at major healthcare systems, experienced CNAs can earn $17-20 per hour, with premium pay available for night shifts, weekends, and rural assignments.

Idaho's healthcare industry is anchored by major systems including St. Luke's Health System (the state's largest private employer with facilities throughout the Treasure Valley), Saint Alphonsus Health System, and Kootenai Health in northern Idaho. Primary Health Group, Portneuf Medical Center in Pocatello, and Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center also serve as major employers. Idaho's large rural population and aging demographics create consistent demand for CNAs in skilled nursing facilities throughout smaller communities.

The Boise metropolitan area has experienced explosive growth, creating a healthcare boom that shows no signs of slowing. Rural Idaho communities often offer sign-on bonuses and housing assistance to attract CNAs. Career advancement is supported through Idaho's community college system nursing programs, and many facilities offer tuition reimbursement for CNAs pursuing LPN or RN degrees.

Average Annual Salary

$34,720

per year

$16.69/hour • Low cost of living

Nearby States

Explore CNA Training in Nearby States

Looking for CNA programs in neighboring states? Check out these resources.

Resources

Official Idaho CNA Resources

Access official state resources for CNA certification, testing, and verification.

Idaho Dept. of Health and Welfare

State agency overseeing CNA certification, training program approval, and nurse aide registry.

Visit Website

Idaho Nurse Aide Registry

Verify your CNA status and check certification details through the official registry.

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Headmaster Testing (D&SDT)

Schedule Exam

Idaho CNA Candidate Handbook

Download the official handbook for complete exam information and skills checklists.

Download PDF

Idaho Nurse Aide Registry Contact

450 W. State Street
Boise, ID 83720

Call: (208) 334-6626

Headmaster Testing Support

Contact Headmaster for exam scheduling, results, and testing accommodations.

Call: (800) 393-8664

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