CNA Classes in Alabama
If you are aiming to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Alabama, our resources offer comprehensive information to guide you on this career path. We provide insights into CNA training opportunities in key areas such as Birmingham, Montgomery, Mobile, Huntsville, and Tuscaloosa.
How to Become a CNA in Alabama
Complete 75 Hours of Training
Enroll in a program approved by the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH). You must complete a minimum of 75 hours of state-approved instruction.
Pass the Competency Exam
Register with Credentia for regional testing sites or Prometric if your nursing facility is an approved on-site testing location. You must pass both the written and skills portions.
Background Check & Fingerprinting
Submit to a mandatory criminal background check to ensure you meet the state eligibility requirements for healthcare employment in Alabama.
Verify Registry Status
Upon passing, your name is added to the Alabama Nurse Aide Registry. You can verify your status through the official ADPH portal.
24-Month Renewal
Maintain your certification by working at least 8 hours for pay in a nursing-related role every 24 months. Alabama does not charge a renewal fee.
Alabama Certification Guide
Reciprocity (Transferring your License)
If you are a CNA in good standing in another state, you may apply for reciprocity to work in Alabama. You must submit an application to the ADPH along with verification from your current state registry. You are not required to retake the training if your certification is active and verifiable.
The 4-Month Working Rule
Federal and Alabama state law allows individuals to work as a "Nurse Aide in Training" for up to 120 days (4 months) while currently enrolled in an approved program. You must pass your competency exam within this window to continue employment at a licensed facility.
Annual In-Service Requirements
To remain active on the Alabama Nurse Aide Registry, you must complete at least 12 hours of in-service education annually. This training is typically provided by your employer and ensures you stay current on patient safety and care protocols.
Lapsed or Expired Certification
If your Alabama CNA certification has lapsed, it cannot be renewed through work experience. You are required to re-enroll in an approved 75-hour training program and pass both the written and skills portions of the state exam to regain active status.
Alabama Program Directory
Find state-approved CNA training programs near you.
| City / County | School Name | Program Type |
|---|---|---|
| Birmingham / Jefferson | Lawson State Community College | College-Based |
| Birmingham / Jefferson | American Red Cross (Central AL) | Private/Non-profit |
| Birmingham / Jefferson | Health Care Training Solutions | Private Vocational |
| Montgomery / Montgomery | Trenholm State Community College | College-Based |
| Montgomery / Montgomery | Baptist Health Medical Center | Hospital-Based |
| Mobile / Mobile | Bishop State Community College | College-Based |
| Mobile / Mobile | American Red Cross (South AL) | Private/Non-profit |
| Huntsville / Madison | Calhoun Community College | College-Based |
| Huntsville / Madison | Huntsville Hospital System | Hospital-Based |
| Tuscaloosa / Tuscaloosa | Shelton State Community College | College-Based |
| Tuscaloosa / Tuscaloosa | DCH Regional Medical Center | Hospital-Based |
| Gadsden / Etowah | Gadsden State Community College | College-Based |
| Gadsden / Etowah | Gadsden Health & Rehab Center | Facility-Based |
| Dothan / Houston | Wallace Community College | College-Based |
| Dothan / Houston | Extendicare Health & Rehabilitation | Facility-Based |
| Anniston / Calhoun | Regional Medical Center (RMC) | Hospital-Based |
| Selma / Dallas | Vaughan Regional Medical Center | Hospital-Based |
Alabama CNA FAQ
As of 2026, Alabama requires a minimum of 75 hours of state-approved nurse aide training, which must include both classroom instruction and clinical rotations.
Alabama uses a dual-vendor system. Credentia manages testing at regional sites, while Prometric handles on-site testing for approved nursing facilities.
The average annual salary for a CNA in Alabama is $37,827, though this varies by region and specific healthcare facility.
Certifications must be renewed every 24 months. You must provide proof of at least 8 hours of paid nursing-related work performed during that period.
No, the Alabama Department of Public Health does not currently charge a fee for nurse aides to remain active on the state registry.