CNA Classes in New Jersey

Following training, New Jersey applicants must complete both skills and knowledge tests before being placed on the state’s CNA registry. Before this, the state requires a full criminal check, which may take up to 12 weeks to complete. However, following this, there is not much of a wait before being able to test. Typically, one’s instructor will set up the skills test, which consists of demonstrating hand washing as well as performing four other randomly selected skills, which are listed in the PSI Exams manual.

Next, after successfully completing the skills section, students will apply to PSI to take the knowledge section. This section can be completed in writing or may be performed orally per the applicant’s wishes. It consists of 70 multiple-choice questions, which must be completed in two hours or less. The test is offered in six New Jersey cities, but applicants should be willing to take the test at a location further from them should particular locations fill. Both parts of the examination cost $76. Candidates who have passed the criminal check will find out if they have passed on site. Those who fail can retake each section up to two additional times.

CNAs who will be working in an acute care hospital will not need to be certified. However, CNAs who choose to work in a long-term care facility, an Alzheimer’s unit or another licensed sub-acute facility will need to take and pass this examination to become certified.

New Jersey practices reciprocity to allow CNAs from other states who are in good standing with their registries to transfer their certifications to New Jersey. They must have no complaints of abuse, neglect or maltreatment of patients against their names and will need to have a complete criminal check and fingerprinting via live scan performed. Individuals will need to fill out an application for reciprocity and submit it to PSI. They will need to prove that they have completed a program and evaluation in their previous state that was at least equal or greater than what is required by New Jersey law. The reciprocity process is free.

CNAs who work in acute care hospitals will not need to worry about renewing their certifications because by state law they are not required to hold one. However, New Jersey CNAs working in licensed sub-acute settings must renew their certifications every two years to stay on the state’s registry. CNAs can expect to get a renewal notice from PSI approximately a month and half before their certificates expire. Renewal requires having worked for pay at least seven hours in a licensed facility in the state within the past two years. Individuals will also need to undergo a criminal check and live scan fingerprinting every two years. Individuals will receive a notice reminding them to undergo a new criminal check approximately four months before expiration. Renewal is free.

Links
NJ Department of Health
New Jersey Board of Nursing
New Jersey Nurses Aide Registry
New Jersey License Verification

Contacts

Certification Program
New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH)
PO Box 358
Trenton, NJ 08625-0358

Phone: (609) 633-9051
Fax: (609) 633-9087
Email: [email protected]
Include the words “Nurse Aide” in the subject line