Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Careers in Florida
CNAs provide foundational nursing care — taking vital signs, helping patients bathe, dress, eat, and move — under the supervision of nurses. It is the entry point to nursing and a career built entirely on human connection. Florida's state certification is required, but training is quick and affordable, making it one of the fastest ways to enter the healthcare workforce.
What does a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) do in Florida?
CNAs provide foundational nursing care — taking vital signs, helping patients bathe, dress, eat, and move — under the supervision of nurses. It is the entry point to nursing and a career built entirely on human connection. Florida's state certification is required, but training is quick and affordable, making it one of the fastest ways to enter the healthcare workforce.
Typical Florida work setting: Nursing homes/SNFs|Hospitals|Assisted living facilities|Home health.
Florida salary and job outlook
Estimated Florida median pay for Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is approximately $36,850 per year. Entry-level Florida pay typically starts near $32,690, with experienced workers earning around $46,080.
Florida’s projected growth for this occupation is approximately 6% through the next decade — in line with broader state and national workforce trends.
Estimated figures based on publicly reported Florida and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Actual pay varies by employer, metro area, experience, and credentials.
How to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Florida
- 1. Choose an accredited Florida programLook for a Florida program that prepares you for the FL CNA Certification; 75+ hour state-approved training + FL Nurse Aide Competency Exam (Prometric) required to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Public technical colleges and state colleges are typically the lowest-cost option; private career schools tend to cost more but may finish faster.
- 2. Complete the trainingMost Florida Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs take about 4-8 weeks (75-120 hours). Plan around your work and family schedule — many programs offer day, evening, or hybrid options.
- 3. Pass the Florida licensing examWorking as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Florida requires a state license issued through Florida Department of Health / Board of Nursing (Chapter 464 Part II). You’ll typically need to pass a national or state exam after completing an approved program.
- 4. Apply for Florida jobsHospitals, clinics, employers, and staffing agencies across Florida hire newly licensed Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)s every month. Use our Florida school directory to find programs with strong job-placement support.
Requirements & Training
- Credential: FL CNA Certification; 75+ hour state-approved training + FL Nurse Aide Competency Exam (Prometric)
- Typical program length: 4-8 weeks (75-120 hours)
- Typical tuition range: $1,000 - $3,000
- Florida license required: Yes (Florida Department of Health / Board of Nursing (Chapter 464 Part II))
Career Path
- CNA
- Medication Technician
- LPN (with schooling)
- RN
Top Florida Employers
Related Programs to Look For
- Nursing Assistant Certificate
- Patient Care Technician Certificate
Florida Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) FAQs
Do I need a Florida license to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?
Yes. Florida requires state licensure for Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)s, administered through Florida Department of Health / Board of Nursing (Chapter 464 Part II). You’ll generally need to graduate from an approved program and pass an exam before you can practice.
How long does it take to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Florida?
Most Florida training programs for Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) take about 4-8 weeks (75-120 hours). Part-time, evening, and hybrid schedules can extend that timeline; accelerated programs may shorten it.
How much does Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training cost in Florida?
Typical Florida programs run about $1,000 - $3,000. Public technical and state colleges are usually the lowest-cost route. Financial aid, employer reimbursement, and payment plans are widely available.
What is the average salary for a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Florida?
Estimated Florida median pay for Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)s is about $36,850 per year. Entry-level pay is typically lower, and experienced workers in high-demand metros (Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville) can earn meaningfully more.
Where can I study to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Florida?
Florida has hundreds of public technical colleges, state colleges, and private career schools that offer training relevant to Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Use our Florida school directory to filter by region, cost, and accreditation.
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