Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) training & certification requirements vary considerably across the U.S. In some states, the requirements go beyond the federal minimum while in other states requirements are nearly identical to the federal standards.

This page displays Texas CNA Requirements as of February 2023.

To see requirements in other states, visit nursinghome411.org/cna-reqs.

Texas CNA Requirements

  • Eligibility/Screening Requirements
    • Pass background check requirements.
  • Education & Training Requirement
    • Individuals must complete a state approved nurse aide training and competency evaluation program.
  • Testing Requirement
    • Individuals must pass both a written and skills test within 24 months after completing the training portion of a NATCEP.
    • A trainee who fails the skills demonstration or the written or oral examination may retake the competency evaluation twice. If a trainee fails a competency evaluation three times, the trainee must complete the training portion of a NATCEP before taking a competency evaluation again.
  • Renewal & In-Service Requirements
    • 24 hours of in-service education every 2 years.
    • To renew a nurse aide’s certificate of registration and listing on the registry, the nurse aide must complete at least 24 hours of in-service education every two years, including training in geriatrics and, if applicable, in the care of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Must also include proof of paid employment in the past 24 months.
  • Hours
    • 100 hours must include:
      • (1) 60 hours of classroom training; and
      • (2) 40 hours of clinical training with at least one program instructor for every 10 trainees.
    • Curriculum
      • Same as federal.