CNA Classes in Chattanooga, TN

How Much Does CNA Training Cost in Chattanooga?

Tuition at Chattanooga programs runs Free to $2,100 (about $1,490 on average). Beyond tuition, plan for the state exam fee (Approximately $97 total for both portions), the application/registry fee (Application included in Headmaster's testing packet; no separate state application fee), a background check, and uniforms or supplies. All in, total CNA training cost in Tennessee typically falls around $0 (employer-sponsored) to $1,200 (private program). Note that 2 Chattanooga programs offer free training — see the highlighted options above.

How to Become a CNA in Chattanooga, TN

1. 1

   Confirm you meet the prerequisites

   You must be at least 16, free of disqualifying convictions under Tennessee Department of Health rules, and able to read and write English. There is no formal high school diploma requirement from the state, though most training programs require basic English literacy and some require students to be 18.

2. 2

   Find a Tennessee-approved Nurse Aide Training Program

   Look for a 75-hour state-approved program. Approved programs are run by the Tennessee Board of Regents community college system, the American Red Cross, nursing facilities, and private career schools. Many Tennessee LTC operators in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga sponsor training in exchange for a work commitment.

3. 3

   Complete the 75-hour training program

   Pass all 75 hours, including at least 16 hours of supervised clinical experience. Your program issues a completion certificate that registers you with Headmaster for the competency exam.

4. 4

   Apply for a 120-day temporary work permit (optional)

   Tennessee uniquely offers a 120-day temporary work permit for candidates who have completed approved training but have not yet passed the competency exam. This permit lets you work as a nurse aide under supervision while preparing for and taking your exam. Most candidates use this window to earn a CNA wage right away. Apply through your employer and the Tennessee Department of Health.

5. 5

   Complete TBI and FBI background screening

   Submit fingerprints for both Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) state check and federal FBI fingerprint clearance. Processing usually takes 1 to 3 weeks. Disqualifying offenses include violent felonies, theft, fraud, sexual offenses, drug trafficking, and vulnerable-adult abuse.

6. 6

   Schedule and pass the Headmaster competency exam

   Submit your application through hdmaster.com/testing/cnatesting/tennessee and schedule the written/oral and skills exams. The total exam fee is approximately $97. You must pass both portions within 120 days if you are working under a temporary permit.

7. 7

   Get listed on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry

   Once you pass both portions and your background check clears, Headmaster transmits your results to the Tennessee Department of Health and you are added to the state Nurse Aide Registry. You can verify your status at apps.health.tn.gov/Licensure. From that point you are fully certified and can work in any Tennessee licensed healthcare facility without the temporary permit.

Becoming a CNA in Tennessee

Becoming a CNA in Tennessee is one of the more candidate-friendly pathways in the country, largely because of the state's unusual 120-day temporary work permit. After you complete the 75-hour state-approved training program, Tennessee lets you start working as a paid nurse aide under supervision for up to 120 days while you take the Headmaster competency exam. Most candidates use this window to begin earning a CNA wage right away, often 4 to 6 weeks into the process rather than waiting another 4 weeks for the exam and registry listing to complete.

Frequently Asked Questions: CNA Training in Chattanooga