How to Get CNA License in Florida
Nov 01, 2026
Updated November 2026.
Quick answer: In Florida you can become a CNA in one of three ways: complete a state-approved training program and pass the exam, take the exam without a course if you are at least 18 or have a high school diploma or equivalent, or transfer a license from another state by endorsement. In every case you must pass the Florida Nurse Aide exam, given by Prometric, and the required background screening with electronic fingerprints.
This guide explains the three routes, the exam, how to apply, the fastest way to get started and what CNAs earn in Florida.
Table of Contents
- What is a CNA?
- Three routes to a Florida CNA license
- Requirements to get a CNA license in Florida
- The CNA certification exam in Florida
- Step-by-step to obtain a CNA license in Florida
- What is the fastest way to become a CNA in Florida?
- CNA pay and job outlook in Florida
- CNA license FAQs
What is a CNA?
A certified nursing assistant (CNA) helps patients with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing and eating, takes vital signs and reports changes to the nursing staff. CNAs work in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, rehabilitation centers and patients' homes. The job is a common first step in health care and can lead to nursing school or other health care roles. See what a CNA does for a day-to-day picture.
Three routes to a Florida CNA license
| Route | Who it is for |
| 1. Approved training program | Anyone. You complete a state-approved nursing assistant program and then take the exam. Florida's standard program is 120 hours. |
| 2. Challenge the exam | Applicants who are at least 18 or who have a high school diploma or equivalent. You can take the exam without completing a program (Section 464.203, Florida Statutes). |
| 3. Endorsement | People who already hold a license or certificate in another state and are deemed eligible by the Florida Board of Nursing. |
Requirements to get a CNA license in Florida
- Training or eligibility: a completed approved program, or the age or diploma eligibility to challenge the exam, or eligibility by endorsement.
- Background screening: Florida requires electronic fingerprints for CNA applicants (House Bill 975, 2024), taken through an approved Livescan provider. CNAs must also pass the background screening required for employment at facilities regulated by the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA), or qualify for an exemption from disqualification.
- The exam: you must pass both parts of the Florida Nurse Aide exam.
The Board cannot tell you in advance whether a past offense will disqualify you. Read the details on the Florida Board of Nursing CNA page.
The CNA certification exam in Florida
The Florida Nurse Aide exam is given by Prometric and has two parts:
- Written test: 60 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes. An oral or Spanish version can be requested if you have difficulty reading English.
- Skills (performance) test: you demonstrate nursing assistant skills in front of an evaluator.
If you completed an approved training program within 6 months before you apply, you do not have to take the skills portion. If you fail the exam three times, you must complete an approved training program before you can test again.
Step-by-step to obtain a CNA license in Florida
- Choose your route. Decide whether you will take an approved program, challenge the exam or apply by endorsement.
- Apply through Prometric. Applicants submit an application to Prometric and pay the exam fees. See how much it costs to become a CNA in Florida for the fees.
- Get your fingerprints. Use an approved Livescan provider and give the correct agency identification number, or the Board will not receive your results.
- Wait for Board approval. The Board reviews the file and notifies you of any deficiencies. Once it is approved, Prometric receives your eligibility and you can schedule the exam.
- Take and pass both parts. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID. For help with the hands-on part, see how to pass the CNA skills test.
- Keep your license active. CNAs renew every two years. See the CNA license renewal guide.
What is the fastest way to become a CNA in Florida?
If you are at least 18 or have a high school diploma or equivalent, the fastest route is usually to challenge the exam instead of completing a full program, because you can go straight to the application and the exam. That route works best if you prepare well, since three failed attempts send you back to an approved program.
FHCA offers Florida CNA exam prep: a $399 self-paced written review and a $599 three-day, in-person clinical skills review of all 22 skills. FHCA is also an official Prometric test site in Orlando. These reviews are exam preparation only. They do not replace the state-approved training program for students who need one, and they do not guarantee a passing score.
CNA pay and job outlook in Florida
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OEWS, May 2025), nursing assistants earn a median of $37,510 a year in Florida and $37,690 in the Orlando area. BLS projects employment of nursing assistants and orderlies to grow 3% from 2025 to 2035, with about 203,300 openings a year. See CNA salary in Orlando and where a CNA can work.
CNA license FAQs
How do I obtain my CNA license in Florida?
Choose a route (approved training program, challenge the exam or endorsement), apply through Prometric, complete the electronic fingerprints and pass both parts of the Florida Nurse Aide exam. Read the steps above for the order.
What is the fastest way to become a CNA in Florida?
If you are at least 18 or have a high school diploma or equivalent, you can take the exam without a course, which skips the training program. Prepare well, because three failed attempts require an approved program.
Can I take the Florida CNA exam without a course?
Yes, if you are at least 18 or have a high school diploma or equivalent and you pass the background screening (Section 464.203, Florida Statutes).
How long does it take to become a CNA in Florida?
It depends on your route and schedule. A training program takes longer than challenging the exam. See how long it takes to become a CNA.
Who pays more, a CNA or a home health aide?
BLS lists a Florida median of $37,510 a year for nursing assistants and about $33,800 for home health and personal care aides (May 2025). See home health aide vs CNA.
How do I renew my CNA license?
Complete 24 hours of in-service training in each two-year period and renew online. Read the CNA license renewal guide for deadlines and fees.
Ready to get started?
Read how to become a CNA and explore FHCA's CNA exam prep.
