CNA Classes in Georgia
To become a CNA in Georgia, you must complete a state-approved training program (minimum 85 hours) and pass the competency evaluation administered by Credentia. Browse our directory below to find programs by county.
How to Become a CNA in Georgia
Complete Approved Training
You must enroll in a program accredited by the Alliant Health Solutions/GMCF. Georgia requires a minimum of 85 hours of training, which includes 24 hours of clinical rotation in a nursing home.
Pass the Credentia Exam
Georgia uses Credentia for testing. The exam consists of a written (or oral) knowledge test and a skills evaluation where you must perform 5 random clinical tasks (like catheter care or feeding) with 100% accuracy on critical steps.
Get Listed on the Registry
Once you pass both parts of the exam within 3 attempts (and within one year of training), your name is added to the Georgia Nurse Aide Registry. Employers verify this status before hiring.
Most Affordable
Georgia's Technical Colleges (TCSG) are often the cheapest route thanks to the HOPE Grant, which can cover substantial tuition costs.
Fastest Programs
Private training academies often offer accelerated courses that run 3 to 4 weeks (Mon-Fri). Perfect for getting certified quickly.
Can I take CNA Classes Online?
Yes, but hybrid only. Georgia state law requires all students to complete at least 16-24 hours of hands-on clinical training in a physical nursing home.
You can complete the "classroom theory" portion (approx 60 hours) online via Zoom or self-paced modules, but you must physically attend clinical rotations.
Top Hybrid Providers:
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American Red Cross1955 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta📞 (404) 876-3302
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New Standard Learning1631 Phoenix Blvd, College Park📞 (352) 678-9988
How to Choose the Best Program
1 Verify State Approval
Never attend a school that isn't listed on the GMCF/Alliant approved list. If they aren't approved, you cannot sit for the state exam, and your money is wasted.
2 Check the Pass Rates
Ask the program director: "What is your first-time pass rate for the Credentia exam?" A good program should be above 80%.
3 Watch for Hidden Fees
Tuition is just the start. Ask if the price includes: Textbooks ($80+), Scrubs, Background Check ($50), and the State Exam Fee ($112).
4 Clinical Sites
Where will you do your hands-on training? Ensure the nursing home they partner with is within a reasonable driving distance from you.
Salary & Job Outlook
The demand for CNAs in Georgia is projected to grow by 11% through 2028, faster than the national average. Experienced CNAs in metro areas can earn significantly more.
| Location | Hourly Mean | Annual Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Georgia (State Avg) | $15.63 | $32,500 |
| Atlanta Metro | $16.80 | $34,940 |
| Savannah | $15.40 | $32,030 |
| National Average | $17.41 | $36,220 |
Career Advancement
Becoming a CNA is often the first step in a nursing career. Bridge programs allow you to earn while you learn.
Top 5 CNA Programs by City
Athens
Clarke Co.-
1. Athens Technical College📞 (706) 227-7009
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2. Innovative Health Care Inst.📞 (706) 705-2033
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3. Athens Career Academy📞 (706) 357-5244
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4. PruittHealth Athens Heritage📞 (706) 549-1613
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5. High Shoals Health (Bishop)📞 (706) 769-7738
Atlanta
Fulton Co.-
1. Atlanta Technical College📞 (404) 225-4420
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2. Care One Institute📞 (678) 585-1864
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3. Criticare Medical Institute📞 (678) 404-7349
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4. Northpoint Technology Inst.📞 (678) 480-5315
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5. PruittHealth West Atlanta📞 (404) 799-9267
Augusta
Richmond Co.-
1. Augusta Technical College📞 (706) 771-4175
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2. Tender Care Training Ctr.📞 (706) 736-9225
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3. TFL (Training For Life)📞 (706) 814-6941
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4. PruittHealth Augusta📞 (706) 738-2581
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5. Augusta Christian Schools📞 (706) 863-2905
Columbus
Muscogee Co.-
1. Columbus Technical College📞 (706) 225-0525
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2. Georgia Training Center📞 (706) 780-1168
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3. Muscogee Manor & Rehab📞 (706) 256-2419
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4. Orchard View Rehab📞 (706) 225-1100
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5. Stat Medical Services📞 (706) 322-7776
Macon
Bibb Co.-
1. Central GA Tech College📞 (478) 757-3541
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2. Vision Nurse Aide Training📞 (478) 742-5230
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3. Wonderland Int. Training📞 (478) 796-4757
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4. Bolingreen Health & Rehab📞 (478) 477-1720
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5. PruittHealth Macon📞 (478) 784-7900
Savannah
Chatham Co.-
1. Savannah Technical College📞 (912) 443-5815
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2. Dunamis Health Care Acad.📞 (912) 247-5993
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3. King Training Center LLC📞 (912) 495-5535
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4. PruittHealth Savannah📞 (912) 927-9416
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5. Riverview Health & Rehab📞 (912) 354-8225
Georgia CNA Frequently Asked Questions
Georgia requires a minimum of 85 hours of training, which must include at least 24 hours of clinical rotations in a nursing facility.
The competency evaluation is managed by Credentia. You must pass the NNAAP written/oral exam and the skills demonstration to be certified.
The average annual salary for a CNA in Georgia is $33,540, with higher compensation typically found in the Atlanta metro area.
Renewal is required every 24 months. You must prove you worked at least 8 hours for pay in a nursing-related role during that period.
Yes, hybrid programs are allowed where the theory portion is online, but the 24 clinical hours must be completed in person.
Yes. All applicants must undergo a GCHEXS background check and fingerprinting prior to employment or registry placement.
You have three attempts to pass both portions of the Credentia exam within one year of completing your training.
Yes. CNAs in good standing from other states can apply for reciprocity through Alliant Health Solutions to join the GA registry.
Under the 120-day rule, you may work in a nursing facility for up to 4 months while completing your certification exams.
The registry is managed by Alliant Health Solutions under contract with the Georgia Department of Community Health.