Certified Nursing Assistant in Colorado
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for CO. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Colorado.
Jobs (CO)
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route How to become a certified nursing assistant in Colorado
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Colorado, individuals must complete a state-approved training program of at least 75 hours, which includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience. After completing the training, candidates must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam administered by Credentia. The application for certification is submitted to the Colorado Board of Nursing (DORA), and a criminal background check is required. Colorado offers reciprocity for CNAs licensed in other states, provided they have an active and unencumbered license.
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Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Colorado. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Colorado requirements
| Licensing body | Colorado Board of Nursing (DORA) |
| State license | Required |
| Education | State-approved training program of at least 75 hours, including classroom instruction and clinical training. |
| Exam | National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) via Credentia ($135) |
| Application fee | $5 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Minimum age of 18, though some programs may accept 16-year-olds with parental consent. A criminal background check is required. Renewal requires proof of at least 8 hours of paid nursing-related employment under supervision within the last 24 months. |
Source: Colorado Board of Nursing (DORA)
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balance Is it worth it?
- check_circleColorado license required — clearer credential signal to employers