CNA Classes in Indiana

Following completion of an Indiana-approved CNA training program, students will be able to apply to take the examination to become a CNA. Applications are typically processed within 30 days after receipt. Applicants must arrive at the testing site in plenty of time to be in the testing room at least 15 minutes before the beginning of the examination. They must also bring a state ID or driver’s license and be dressed in whatever their employer considers to be a uniform.

The examination consists of two parts, which are the skills and the knowledge sections. The knowledge section is administered in writing although applicants who have a documented need will be allowed to perform the test orally. This section must be at least 80 percent correct to pass. Test results are provided on-site; however, official licenses may take up to 10 weeks to be issued. Both tests together cost $75. Taking only one section costs $65. Personal checks can not be used for payment, but credit cards are accepted.

Applicants will have up to three chances to pass each part of the examination. If they do not pass within three attempts or within two years after completing CNA training, they will need to retrain. The examination is only administered by Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis. Therefore, students who have taken the training elsewhere will still be required to apply to Ivy Tech for the testing.

Individuals who are already licensed as CNAs in another state or who have completed CNA training out-of-state also have the option of becoming a CNA in Indiana. Those who are certified in another state may begin working in Indiana as a CNA before applying for Indiana licensure; however, they have only 120 days to complete testing. They will be required to take the written portion of the examination for a fee of $65, but will not have to take the skills portion. In addition, they will need to undergo a background check with a criminal check and will not be able to certify in Indiana if they have had any complaints of abuse or neglect in a different state. Finally, those who wish to transfer licensure must be able to prove that they have worked for pay as a CNA for at least eight hours out of the last two years.

CNAs will need to renew their licensure every two years in order to stay on the state registry. The Indiana State Department of Health will send out renewal notices to CNAs prior to the expiration date. CNAs can renew by mail or online at the Department of Health’s website. To be eligible for renewal, individuals must have worked as CNAs for pay at least eight hours in the past two years. In addition, they must have completed at least 12 credit hours of continuing education every year. Those who do not renew in time or who did not work the eight required hours will need to reinstate their licenses by completing 12 hours of continuing education and by completing the full CNA examination again.

Click link to find Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation Application
(Both new applicants and applicants for endorsement)

Links
Indiana State Board of Nursing
CNA information on Indiana State website
Check the status of your license

Contacts

Indiana State Department of Health
Division of Healthcare Education and Quality
2 North Meridian Street, 4B
Indianapolis, IN 46204

Aide Registry Program Manager
Darlene Jones
[email protected]
Phone: (317) 233-7351
Fax: (317) 233-7750