CNA Training in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is one of the better-paying states for nursing assistants. The median is $21.70 an hour, above the national figure, and Milwaukee and Madison pay even more.
It's also one of the few states where the state itself will cover your training. Through WisCaregiver Careers, you can train and test for free with a participating employer and earn a $500 bonus after six months. Below you'll find each step to the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry, current Headmaster exam fees, pay by metro area, and programs across the state.
State Minimum
75 Hours
Median Pay
$21.70/hr
Exam Cost
$144.70
The 4 Steps to Certification in Wisconsin
1
Choose Your Route In
Most people take a state-approved training program, but Wisconsin has shortcuts if you already have nursing training:
- New students: finish a DHS-approved program, then test.
- Nursing students and graduate nurses: after a fundamentals of nursing course, apply to test with Training Waiver 1101.
- Wisconsin RNs and LPNs: apply with Waiver 1101 and a copy of your license.
2
Complete Your Training
The state minimum matches the federal one, but many technical colleges still teach a longer course.
75 Hours
State minimum
16 Hours
Clinical, at minimum
The first 16 hours are classroom, before you work with residents. Technical college courses often run about 120 hours (Nicolet College's is 118).
3
Pass the Headmaster Exam
Wisconsin testing is run by Headmaster (D&S Diversified Technologies). You apply and schedule in its TMU system.
| Knowledge + Skills | $144.70 |
| Audio Knowledge + Skills | $150.15 |
| Skills only (retake) | $107.21 |
| Knowledge only (retake) | $37.49 |
Tip: the knowledge test can be taken remotely with a webcam, but the skills test is always in person with an RN observer. Fees above took effect June 7, 2026. Headmaster Wisconsin page
4
Registry & Staying Eligible
Pass both parts and you're listed on the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry.
- Every 24 months: you must do paid nurse aide work under an RN or LPN to stay eligible. There are no extensions.
- Renewing: most employers verify your work in TMU. If yours doesn't, you and your employer complete Form F-03211.
- If you lapse: you retake both tests, but you don't have to retrain.
💰 How to Get CNA Training Free in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is one of the easiest states to train for free, thanks to a state program and federal rules on nursing home training costs. Here is how each option works.
WisCaregiver Careers
✨ Free Training + $500 BonusA Wisconsin DHS program. You pick a participating employer near you, train and test at no cost, and earn while you learn.
Stay six months and you get a $500 retention bonus. Registration is free.
Nursing Home Paid Training
✨ Federal Rule Protects YouIf a Medicare or Medicaid nursing home employs you, or has offered you a job, when you start training, it can't charge you for any of it, testing included. If one hires you within 12 months of finishing, it can reimburse what you paid.
Get the job offer in writing before class starts.
Job Centers of Wisconsin (WIOA)
✨ Grants for Eligible Job SeekersLocal job centers can fund training at approved schools for eligible unemployed or low-income residents.
Apply before you enroll. Funding is rarely approved after classes start.
Earn While You Train
✨ Work Before You're CertifiedStudents in an approved program can work in a nursing home for up to four months, on skills they've proven, under RN or LPN supervision.
You must pass the competency exam within 120 days of starting that job.
Wisconsin CNA Pay by Metro Area
Wisconsin has about 28,370 nursing assistants, and pay is higher than the national median almost everywhere in the state. The spread between metros is small, so you don't have to move to Milwaukee to earn well.
| Area | Median Hourly | Median Annual | CNAs Employed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee-Waukesha | $21.97 | $45,690 | 7,880 |
| Madison | $21.76 | $45,260 | 3,420 |
| Appleton | $21.52 | $44,760 | 980 |
| La Crosse-Onalaska | $20.92 | $43,510 | 1,250 |
| Green Bay | $20.89 | $43,450 | 1,700 |
| Eau Claire | $20.75 | $43,150 | 1,100 |
| Wisconsin (statewide) | $21.70 | $45,130 | 28,370 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, Nursing Assistants (31-1131). National median: $42,260. Medians exclude overtime and shift differentials.
What It Costs to Get Certified
If you go through WisCaregiver or a nursing home that hires you, this can all be $0. Paying your own way at a technical college looks like this:
Tuition
~$589
Nicolet College's 118-hour course, as an example. Other schools vary.
Books & Supplies
~$80
Nicolet's estimate. Ask whether scrubs and a gait belt are included.
Headmaster Exam
$144.70
Knowledge and skills together, at fees effective June 7, 2026.
Typical Total
~$814
Before any employer reimbursement. Confirm current prices with your school.
Moving to Wisconsin? (Out-of-State CNAs)
Wisconsin will add you to its registry if you're active and in good standing in another state. You apply through Headmaster with an Out-of-State application, plus your Social Security card and a government photo ID.
You Have Proof of Training
Send proof you completed a state-approved program of at least 75 hours. Most states' programs meet this.
No Training Records? Use Work Hours
You can qualify on experience instead: at least 2,088 hours as a nurse aide in the two years before you apply. That's about full time.
Inactive in Your Home State
Renew your status in your home state first, or take Wisconsin's knowledge and skills tests. Veterans with military medical training have their own route using Form F-00657.
Applications & Testing
(888) 401-0462
Headmaster, Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry
CNA Training Programs in Wisconsin
196 nurse aide training programs across Wisconsin, from the technical college system to programs run inside nursing homes and hospitals. Search by school, city, or county, or narrow the list by region.
| Program | City | County | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Masonic Homes410 N Main St., Dousman, WI 53118 | Dousman | Waukesha | 262-965-7223 |
| Clement Manor (Milwaukee Catholic Home)3939 S 92nd St, Greenfield, WI 53228 | Greenfield | Milwaukee | 414-546-7386 |
| Prestige Healthcare Academy4811 S 76th St. Suite 210, Greenfield, WI 53220 | Greenfield | Milwaukee | 414-282-8698 |
| Milwaukee Area Technical College5555 West Highland Rd, Mequon, WI 53092 | Mequon | Ozaukee | 414-571-4558 |
| Advantage Home Health6815 W. Capitol Drive #301, Milwaukee, WI 53216 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-299-0072 |
| Advocate Aurora Healthcare Milwaukee3033 S 27th St Ste 105, Milwaukee, WI 53215 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-649-1270 |
| Alliance Specialty Healthcare Services LLC4911 W Good Hope Rd Suite 102, Milwaukee, WI 53223 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 800-387-5520 |
| Better Days Ahead3489 N 76th St, Suite 106, Milwaukee, WI 53222 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-391-1842 |
| Boys and Girls Club Ready Center (Herzing University)1916 Vel R Phillips Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53212 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-699-7410 |
| Home Instead Senior Care Milwaukee (J Johnson Ed Ctr)353 N 121st St., Milwaukee, WI 53226 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-438-9390 |
| J Johnson Educator Center LTD7905 W Appleton Ave, Suite 202, Milwaukee, WI 53218 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-438-9390 |
| James O. Wright Goodwill Workforce Connection (Herzing)6055 N. 91st St, Milwaukee, WI 53225 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-699-7410 |
| Jones Professional Health Services8512 W Lisbon Ave. Suite 3, Milwaukee, WI 53222 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-226-5991 |
| Life Got Better Vocational Training6001 W Center Street, Milwaukee, WI 53210 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-202-5281 |
| Milwaukee Area Technical College700 W Highland Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53210 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-571-4558 |
| Milwaukee Catholic Home Management Services LLC2462 N Prospect Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-224-9700 |
| Milwaukee Job Corps (J Johnson Education Center)6665 N 60th St, Milwaukee, WI 53223 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-438-9390 |
| Mount Mary University (Milwaukee Catholic Home)2900 Menomonee River Parkway, Milwaukee, WI 53222 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-224-9700 |
| Ovation Jewish Home1414 N Prospect Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53202 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-227-8876 |
| Standards of Excellence Education and Training Center, LLC6914 W. Appleton Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53216 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 414-290-7597 |
| The Mindful Way Medical Training (Quality CNA Training)11700 W Lake Park Drive, Milwaukee, WI 53224 | Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 715-902-1746 |
| Milwaukee Area Technical College6665 S Howell Ave, Oak Creek, WI 53154 | Oak Creek | Milwaukee | 414-571-4558 |
| Lake Country Health Services (Quality CNA Training)2195 N Summit Village Way, Oconomowoc, WI 53066 | Oconomowoc | Waukesha | 715-902-1746 |
| Shorehaven Senior Living1305 W. Wisconsin Avenue, Oconomowoc, WI 53066 | Oconomowoc | Waukesha | 262-695-6596 |
| JNMJ LLCN27W239597 Paul Rd, Suites 100 and 205, Pewaukee, WI 53072 | Pewaukee | Waukesha | 616-826-6645 |
| Waukesha County Technical College800 Main St, STE 219, Pewaukee, WI 53072 | Pewaukee | Waukesha | 262-695-6596 |
| Willowcrest Health Care Center (Quality CNA Training)3821 S. Chicago Ave, South Milwaukee, WI 53172 | South Milwaukee | Milwaukee | 715-902-1746 |
| Aurora Medical Center36500 Aurora Dr, Summit, WI 53066 | Summit | Waukesha | 262-434-1166 |
| ProHealth Care725 American Ave, Waukesha, WI 53188 | Waukesha | Waukesha | 262-521-7756 |
| Waukesha County Technical College327 E. Broadway, Waukesha, WI 53186 | Waukesha | Waukesha | 262-695-6596 |
| Bryant & Stratton College10950 W Potter Road, Wauwatosa, WI 53226 | Wauwatosa | Milwaukee | 414-251-4373 |
| Quality Healthcare Options7425 Harwood Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53213 | Wauwatosa | Milwaukee | 414-475-7337 |
| St. Camillus Health System, Inc.10101 W Wisconsin Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53226 | Wauwatosa | Milwaukee | 414-258-1814 |
| The Lutheran Home7500 W North Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53213 | Wauwatosa | Milwaukee | 414-258-6171 |
| Milwaukee Area Technical College1200 S 71st St, West Allis, WI 53214 | West Allis | Milwaukee | 414-571-4558 |
| Moraine Park Technical College2151 N. Main Street, West Bend, WI 53090 | West Bend | Washington | 262-335-5709 |
| Gateway Technical College400 County Road H, Elkhorn, WI 53121 | Elkhorn | Walworth | 262-564-2374 |
| Holton Manor645 N Church Street, Elkhorn, WI 53121 | Elkhorn | Walworth | 715-252-8321 |
| Lakeland Healthcare Center1922 County Road NN, Elkhorn, WI 53121 | Elkhorn | Walworth | 262-894-6366 |
| Carthage College2001 Alford Park Drive, Kenosha, WI 53140 | Kenosha | Kenosha | Call school |
| Froedtert Hospital Kenosha6308 8th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53143 | Kenosha | Kenosha | 262-564-2757 |
| Gateway Technical College3520 30th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53144 | Kenosha | Kenosha | 262-564-2374 |
| Norton Transitional Learning1139 Sunnyslope Dr. Suite 204, Mount Pleasant, WI 53406 | Mount Pleasant | Racine | 414-534-6590 |
| Gateway Technical College1001 S Main St, Racine, WI 53403 | Racine | Racine | 262-564-2374 |
| Southern Wisconsin Center21425 Spring St, Union Grove, WI 53182 | Union Grove | Racine | 262-878-6604 |
| Hillside Manor803 S University Ave, Beaver Dam, WI 53916 | Beaver Dam | Dodge | 920-887-5901 |
| Marshfield Medical Center707 S University Ave, Beaver Dam, WI 53916 | Beaver Dam | Dodge | 920-887-5987 |
| Moraine Park Technical College700 Gould St, Beaver Dam, WI 53916 | Beaver Dam | Dodge | 262-335-5709 |
| Career Tek (Blackhawk Tech)625 Third Street, Beloit, WI 53511 | Beloit | Rock | 608-757-7678 |
| Ironworks Campus @ Beloit Regional Hospice655 3rd St, Beloit, WI 53511 | Beloit | Rock | 262-949-7446 |
| Agrace (Quality CNA Training)5395 E Cheryl Pkwy, Fitchburg, WI 53711 | Fitchburg | Dane | 715-902-1746 |
| Madison College (Fort Atkinson Campus)827 Banker Rd, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 | Fort Atkinson | Jefferson | 920-568-7200 |
| Blackhawk Technical College - Central Campus6004 S Cty Rd G, Janesville, WI 53546 | Janesville | Rock | 608-757-7750 |
| Mercyhealth Hospital and Trauma Center903 Mineral Point Ave, Janesville, WI 53548 | Janesville | Rock | 815-353-4747 |
| Clearview Long Term Care And Rehab198 County Rd D F, Juneau, WI 53039 | Juneau | Dodge | 920-386-3410 |
| Center for Healthcare Education & Simulation3001 W. Beltline Hwy, Ste 305, Madison, WI 53713 | Madison | Dane | 608-227-2292 |
| Central Wisconsin Center317 Knutson Dr, Madison, WI 53704 | Madison | Dane | 608-301-1991 |
| Fatou Ceesay Cairasu Care Institute437 S. Yellowstone Dr, Madison, WI 53719 | Madison | Dane | 608-622-7015 |
| Herzing University (Quality CNA Training)5218 E Terrace Dr., Madison, WI 53718 | Madison | Dane | 715-902-1746 |
| Madison College (Goodman South Campus)2429 Perry St, Madison, WI 53713 | Madison | Dane | 608-616-1058 |
| Madison College (Truax Campus)1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704 | Madison | Dane | 608-616-1058 |
| Madison College Community Clinic1705 Hoffman St, Madison, WI 53704 | Madison | Dane | 608-616-1058 |
| Mendota Mental Health Institute301 Troy Dr, Madison, WI 53704 | Madison | Dane | Call school |
| Neway Directions6400 Gisholt Dr, STE 102, Madison, WI 53713 | Madison | Dane | 608-221-1920 |
| UW Health/UWHCA610 N. Whitney Way, Madison, WI 53705 | Madison | Dane | 608-444-6022 |
| Blackhawk Technical College - Monroe210 4th Ave, Monroe, WI 53566 | Monroe | Green | 608-757-7750 |
| Ingleside Manor / WI /IL Senior Housing407 North 8th St, Mount Horeb, WI 53572 | Mount Horeb | Dane | 608-437-5511 |
| New Glarus Home (Quality CNA Training)600 2nd Ave, New Glarus, WI 53574 | New Glarus | Green | 715-902-1746 |
| Quality CNA Training700 2nd Avenue, New Glarus, WI 53574 | New Glarus | Green | 715-281-5064 |
| Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital (Madison College)2817 New Pinery Rd, Portage, WI 53901 | Portage | Columbia | 608-616-1058 |
| Aspirus Divine Savior Nursing Home (Neway Directions)2805 Hunters Trail, Portage, WI 53901 | Portage | Columbia | 608-221-1920 |
| Madison College (Portage Campus)330 W Collins St., Portage, WI 53901 | Portage | Columbia | 608-745-3100 |
| Portage Enterprise Center (Madison College)1800 Kutzke Road, Portage, WI 53901 | Portage | Columbia | 608-616-1058 |
| Sauk Prairie Healthcare Memorial Hospital260 26th Street, Prairie du Sac, WI 53578 | Prairie du Sac | Sauk | 608-217-3121 |
| Village Family Dental (Madison College)1250 Prairie St, Prairie du Sac, WI 53578 | Prairie du Sac | Sauk | 608-616-1058 |
| Randolph Health Services502 S High St, Randolph, WI 53956 | Randolph | Dodge | 920-326-3171 |
| Madison College (Reedsburg Campus)300 Alexander Ave, Reedsburg, WI 53959 | Reedsburg | Sauk | 608-616-1058 |
| Reedsburg Area Medical Center2000 N Dewey Ave, Reedsburg, WI 53959 | Reedsburg | Sauk | 608-524-6487 |
| Schmitt Woodland Hills, Inc1400 W Seminary Street, Richland Center, WI 53581 | Richland Center | Richland | 608-847-8931 |
| Greenway Manor501 South Winsted St, Spring Green, WI 53518 | Spring Green | Sauk | 608-588-2586 |
| Skaalen Nursing and Rehabilitation400 N. Morris Street, Stoughton, WI 53589 | Stoughton | Dane | 608-873-5651 |
| Illuminus Institute Nurse Aide Training Program1045 Hill St, Watertown, WI 53098 | Watertown | Dodge | 920-253-1607 |
| Madison College (Watertown Campus)1300 W Main St, Watertown, WI 53098 | Watertown | Dodge | 608-616-1058 |
| Home Again Assisted Living (Quality CNA Training)1120 Connery Cove, Waunakee, WI 53597 | Waunakee | Dane | 715-902-1746 |
| Columbia Health Care Center323 W Monroe St, Wyocena, WI 53969 | Wyocena | Columbia | 608-429-2181 |
| Fox Valley Technical College1825 N Bluemound Dr, Appleton, WI 54914 | Appleton | Outagamie | 920-735-5774 |
| Rennes Health and Rehab Center Appleton325 E Florida Ave, Appleton, WI 54911 | Appleton | Outagamie | 715-582-2205 |
| Fox Valley Technical College1200 E Chestnut St, Chilton, WI 53014 | Chilton | Calumet | 920-849-4416 |
| Lakeshore Technical College1290 North Ave, Cleveland, WI 53015 | Cleveland | Manitowoc | 920-693-1840 |
| Fox Valley Technical College525 S Main St, Clintonville, WI 54929 | Clintonville | Waupaca | 715-823-1555 |
| Fondy Central680 Prairie Rd, Fond du Lac, WI 54935 | Fond du Lac | Fond du Lac | 715-902-1746 |
| Moraine Park Technical College235 N National Ave, Fond du Lac, WI 54935 | Fond du Lac | Fond du Lac | 262-335-5709 |
| St Agnes Hospital430 E. Division St, Fond du Lac, WI 54935 | Fond du Lac | Fond du Lac | 920-926-4784 |
| St. Paul Elder Services (Quality CNA Training)316 East 14th Street, Kaukauna, WI 54130 | Kaukauna | Outagamie | 715-902-1746 |
| Wisconsin Veterans HomeN 2665 County Rd QQ, King, WI 54946 | King | Waupaca | 715-256-5054 |
| Manitowoc Health and Rehab2021 S Alverno Rd, Manitowoc, WI 54220 | Manitowoc | Manitowoc | 920-693-1840 |
| Shady Lane Assisted Living and Rehab (Quality CNA)1235 S 24th St., Manitowoc, WI 54220 | Manitowoc | Manitowoc | 715-902-1746 |
| St Mary's at Felician Village1635 South 21st Street, Manitowoc, WI 54220 | Manitowoc | Manitowoc | 920-684-7171 |
| Markesan Resident Home1130 N. Margaret St, Markesan, WI 53946 | Markesan | Green Lake | 920-398-2751 |
| St. Joseph Residence (Quality CNA Training)107 E. Beckert Road, New London, WI 54961 | New London | Waupaca | 715-902-1746 |
| Bethel Home225 N Eagle St, Oshkosh, WI 54902 | Oshkosh | Winnebago | 920-235-3454 |
| Evergreen Retirement Community, Inc1130 N Westfield St, Oshkosh, WI 54902 | Oshkosh | Winnebago | 920-237-2134 |
| Fox Valley Technical College150 N Campbell Rd, Oshkosh, WI 54902 | Oshkosh | Winnebago | 920-236-6101 |
| Park View Health Center725 Butler Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54901 | Oshkosh | Winnebago | 920-237-6952 |
| Rocky Knoll Health Care CenterN7135 Rocky Knoll Pkwy, Plymouth, WI 53073 | Plymouth | Sheboygan | 920-893-1840 |
| Sheboygan Progressive Health Services (Quality CNA Training)1902 Mead Ave, Sheboygan, WI 53081 | Sheboygan | Sheboygan | 715-902-1746 |
| Sheboygan Senior Center3505 County Rd Y, Sheboygan, WI 53083 | Sheboygan | Sheboygan | 920-693-1840 |
| Pine Haven Christian Home220 Haven Dr., Sheboygan Falls, WI 53085 | Sheboygan Falls | Sheboygan | 920-693-1840 |
| Fox Valley Technical College1979 Godfrey Dr, Waupaca, WI 54981 | Waupaca | Waupaca | 715-942-1700 |
| Fox Valley Technical College556 S Cambridge St, Wautoma, WI 54982 | Wautoma | Waushara | 920-787-3319 |
| Winnebago Mental Health Institute1300 South Drive, Winnebago, WI 54985 | Winnebago | Winnebago | 920-235-4910 |
| New Care, Inc.903 Main Street, Crivitz, WI 54114 | Crivitz | Marinette | 715-854-2717 |
| Rennes Health and Rehab Center De Pere200 S. 9th Street, De Pere, WI 54115 | De Pere | Brown | 715-582-2205 |
| Bellin College3201 Eaton Rd, Green Bay, WI 54311 | Green Bay | Brown | 920-433-6699 |
| Grancare Nursing Center1555 Dousman St., Green Bay, WI 54303 | Green Bay | Brown | 920-494-4525 |
| HSHS St Mary's Hospital Medical Center1726 Shawano Ave, Green Bay, WI 54303 | Green Bay | Brown | 920-498-4200 |
| Northeast Technical College2740 W. Mason Street, Green Bay, WI 54303 | Green Bay | Brown | 920-498-7141 |
| Woodside Lutheran Home1040 Pilgrim Way, Green Bay, WI 54304 | Green Bay | Brown | 920-498-7141 |
| Northeast Technical College - Luxemburg133 Hwy 54, Luxemburg, WI 54217 | Luxemburg | Kewaunee | 920-498-7141 |
| Northeast Technical College - Marinette1601 University Dr, Marinette, WI 54143 | Marinette | Marinette | 920-498-7141 |
| Maryhill Manor, Inc501 Madison Ave, Niagara, WI 54151 | Niagara | Marinette | 715-251-1493 |
| Northeast Technical College - Niagara2030 Calvary Dr, Niagara, WI 54151 | Niagara | Florence | 920-498-7141 |
| Northeast Technical College - Oconto Falls649 E Jackson St., Oconto Falls, WI 54154 | Oconto Falls | Oconto | 920-498-7141 |
| Rennes Health and Rehab Center Peshtigo East701 Willow St, Peshtigo, WI 54157 | Peshtigo | Marinette | 715-582-2205 |
| Rennes Health and Rehab Center Peshtigo West501 N Lake St, Peshtigo, WI 54157 | Peshtigo | Marinette | 920-498-7141 |
| Northeast Technical College - Shawano111 Thomas Ave, Shawano, WI 54166 | Shawano | Shawano | 920-498-7141 |
| ThedaCare Medical Center-Shawano100 County Rd B, Shawano, WI 54166 | Shawano | Shawano | 920-498-7141 |
| Door County Medical Center323 S 18th Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 | Sturgeon Bay | Door | 920-746-3563 |
| Northeast Technical College - Sturgeon Bay229 N 14th Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 | Sturgeon Bay | Door | 920-498-7141 |
| Northwoods Regional Tech AcademyN11941 US Hwy 141, Wausaukee, WI 54177 | Wausaukee | Marinette | 920-498-7141 |
| Mid-State Technical College401 N. Main St, Adams, WI 53910 | Adams | Adams | 715-422-5423 |
| Northcentral Technical College312 Forrest Ave, Antigo, WI 54409 | Antigo | Langlade | 715-803-1338 |
| Mid-State Technical College2600 W 5th St, Marshfield, WI 54449 | Marshfield | Wood | 715-422-5423 |
| Western Technical College1000 College Ave, Mauston, WI 53948 | Mauston | Juneau | 608-785-9200 |
| Northcentral Technical College1001 Progressive Ave, Medford, WI 54451 | Medford | Taylor | 715-803-1338 |
| Pine Crest Nursing Home2100 East 6th Street, Merrill, WI 54452 | Merrill | Lincoln | 715-803-1338 |
| Clark County Health Care CenterW4266 Cty Hwy X, Owen, WI 54460 | Owen | Clark | 715-858-1839 |
| Northcentral Technical College808 N Pacific St, Spencer, WI 54479 | Spencer | Marathon | 715-803-1338 |
| Mid-State Technical College1001 Centerpoint Dr, Stevens Point, WI 54481 | Stevens Point | Portage | 715-422-5423 |
| Forest Park Village2901 N 7th St, Wausau, WI 54403 | Wausau | Marathon | 715-803-1338 |
| Northcentral Technical College (Health Science Center)1000 W Campus Dr, Wausau, WI 54401 | Wausau | Marathon | 715-803-1338 |
| Wausau Manor Health Services3107 Westhill Dr, Wausau, WI 54401 | Wausau | Marathon | 715-842-0575 |
| Mid-State Technical College500 32nd St North, Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494 | Wisconsin Rapids | Wood | 715-422-5423 |
| Wisconsin Rapids Health Services1350 River Run Drive, Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494 | Wisconsin Rapids | Wood | 715-902-1746 |
| Western Technical College24 Fillmore St, Black River Falls, WI 54615 | Black River Falls | Jackson | 608-785-9200 |
| Grand View Care Center620 Grand View Ave, Blair, WI 54616 | Blair | Trempealeau | 608-989-2511 |
| Southwest Technical College1800 Bronson Blvd, Fennimore, WI 53809 | Fennimore | Grant | 608-822-2667 |
| Quality CNA Training2501 Shelby Road, La Crosse, WI 54601 | La Crosse | La Crosse | 920-446-2334 |
| Shelby Terrace (Quality CNA Training)2525 Shelby Rd, La Crosse, WI 54601 | La Crosse | La Crosse | 715-902-1746 |
| Western Technical College400 7th St N., La Crosse, WI 54601 | La Crosse | La Crosse | 608-785-9200 |
| Western Technical College - Health Science Center1300 Badger St, La Crosse, WI 54601 | La Crosse | La Crosse | 608-775-4329 |
| American Lutheran Home200 Memorial Dr, Mondovi, WI 54755 | Mondovi | Buffalo | 715-858-1839 |
| Dove Healthcare - Osseo51019 Ridge View Road, Osseo, WI 54758 | Osseo | Trempealeau | 715-597-2493 |
| Mary Crest Assisted Living (Western TC)4501 S Water Street, Sparta, WI 54656 | Sparta | Monroe | 608-785-9200 |
| Morrow Memorial Home331 S Water St, Sparta, WI 54656 | Sparta | Monroe | 608-269-3168 |
| Western Technical College120 E Milwaukee St, Tomah, WI 54660 | Tomah | Monroe | 608-785-9200 |
| Western Technical College1310 Town Line Road, Tomah, WI 54660 | Tomah | Monroe | 608-785-9200 |
| Western Technical College220 S Main, Viroqua, WI 54665 | Viroqua | Vernon | 608-785-9200 |
| Trempealeau County Health CareW20410 State Road 121, Whitehall, WI 54773 | Whitehall | Trempealeau | 715-538-4312 |
| Grace Lutheran Foundation286 N Wilson Dr, Altoona, WI 54720 | Altoona | Eau Claire | 715-864-2491 |
| The Classics at Hillcrest Greens2455 Sawgrass Place, Altoona, WI 54720 | Altoona | Eau Claire | 715-864-1033 |
| Augusta Care & Rehab901 Bridge Creek Lane, Augusta, WI 54722 | Augusta | Eau Claire | 715-286-2266 |
| Healthcare Workforce Training Institute2217 Duncan Road, Bloomer, WI 54724 | Bloomer | Chippewa | 715-568-9770 |
| Chippewa Valley Technical College770 Scheidler Rd, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 | Chippewa Falls | Chippewa | 800-511-9095 |
| Healthcare Workforce Training Institute2815 County Hwy I, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 | Chippewa Falls | Chippewa | 715-723-9341 |
| Northern Wisconsin Center2820 E Park Ave, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 | Chippewa Falls | Chippewa | 715-723-5542 |
| WI Veterans Home at Chippewa Falls2175 E. Park Ave, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 | Chippewa Falls | Chippewa | 715-720-6775 |
| AdventHealth Durand1220 3rd Ave W, Durand, WI 54736 | Durand | Pepin | 715-672-4211 |
| Chippewa Valley Technical College - Eau Claire600 W Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701 | Eau Claire | Eau Claire | 715-858-1839 |
| Healthcare Workforce Training Institute1405 Traux Blvd, Eau Claire, WI 54703 | Eau Claire | Eau Claire | 715-552-1030 |
| Christian Community Home of Hudson1320 Wisconsin St, Hudson, WI 54016 | Hudson | St. Croix | 715-386-9303 |
| Chippewa Valley Technical College - Menomonie403 Technology Dr E, Menomonie, WI 54751 | Menomonie | Dunn | 715-232-2685 |
| Deerfield Gables Care Center (Northwood Tech)575 Hospital Rd, New Richmond, WI 54017 | New Richmond | St. Croix | 715-246-1857 |
| Northwood Technical College - New Richmond1019 Knowles Ave, New Richmond, WI 54017 | New Richmond | St. Croix | 715-246-1857 |
| St Croix Health Care Center1445 N 4th St, New Richmond, WI 54017 | New Richmond | St. Croix | 715-246-8229 |
| Plum City Care Center301 Cherry Ave West, Plum City, WI 54716 | Plum City | Pierce | 715-647-2401 |
| Chippewa Valley Technical College - River Falls500 S Wasson Ln, River Falls, WI 54022 | River Falls | Pierce | 715-425-3301 |
| Park View Home220 Lockwood St, Woodville, WI 54028 | Woodville | St. Croix | 715-698-2451 |
| Northwood Technical College - Ashland2100 Beaser Ave, Ashland, WI 54806 | Ashland | Ashland | 715-246-1857 |
| Sensible Solutions Care Clinic (Northwood Tech)323 LaSalle Ave, Barron, WI 54812 | Barron | Barron | 715-246-1857 |
| Frederic Nursing and Rehab Community205 United Way, Frederic, WI 54837 | Frederic | Polk | 715-327-4297 |
| Burnett Medical Center-Continuing Care Center257 West St. George Avenue, Grantsburg, WI 54840 | Grantsburg | Burnett | 715-463-7278 |
| Northwood Technical College - Hayward15618 Windrose Ln #106, Hayward, WI 54843 | Hayward | Sawyer | 715-246-1857 |
| Water's Edge11040N State Road 77, Hayward, WI 54843 | Hayward | Sawyer | 715-934-4313 |
| Villa Maria Health & Rehab Center300 Villa Dr, Hurley, WI 54534 | Hurley | Iron | 715-561-3200 |
| Care and Rehab Ladysmith1001 E 11th St N, Ladysmith, WI 54848 | Ladysmith | Rusk | 715-532-5546 |
| Lake Manor (Northwood Tech)119 E 4th St N, Ladysmith, WI 54848 | Ladysmith | Rusk | 715-246-1857 |
| Park Manor509 Birch St, Park Falls, WI 54552 | Park Falls | Price | 715-762-2449 |
| Northcentral Technical College1408 Pine Ridge Rd, Phillips, WI 54555 | Phillips | Price | 715-803-1338 |
| Nicolet College5364 College Dr, Rhinelander, WI 54501 | Rhinelander | Oneida | 715-365-4910 |
| Rennes Health and Rehab Center Rhinelander1970 Navajo St., Rhinelander, WI 54501 | Rhinelander | Oneida | 715-582-2205 |
| Healthcare Workforce Training Institute910 Bear Paw Ave, Rice Lake, WI 54868 | Rice Lake | Barron | 715-234-2604 |
| Northwood Technical College - Rice Lake (Northwood Tech)1900 College Dr., Rice Lake, WI 54868 | Rice Lake | Barron | 715-246-1857 |
| Divine Rehab & Nursing (Northwood Tech)750 E Louisiana St, Saint Croix Falls, WI 54024 | Saint Croix Falls | Polk | 715-246-1857 |
| Northwood Tech Health Education Center505 Pine Ridge Dr., Shell Lake, WI 54871 | Shell Lake | Washburn | 715-246-1857 |
| Northwood Technical College - Superior600 N 21st St., Superior, WI 54880 | Superior | Douglas | 715-246-1857 |
No programs match. Try a nearby city or pick "All regions."
Before you call: programs run by a nursing home or rehab center often train only people they plan to hire. That can work in your favor, since those facilities usually cover the cost. Technical colleges are open to anyone. Sites tagged with a college or trainer in parentheses, like (Quality CNA Training) or (Madison College), are classes that provider runs at that location. Always confirm a program is still approved and ask when the next class starts.
List reviewed October 2026. Know of a closed program or a wrong number? Report a correction.
Wisconsin CNA Questions, Answered
Is the Wisconsin CNA course 75 or 120 hours?
The state minimum is 75 hours with at least 16 clinical. Wisconsin used to require 120, and many technical colleges still teach courses close to that length. A longer course isn't required, but it can mean more practice before the skills test.
Can I take the CNA test online in Wisconsin?
Only the knowledge part. Headmaster offers the knowledge test with remote proctoring, so you'll need a camera, a quiet room, and photo ID. The skills test is always in person with an RN observer.
What if I fail one part?
You retake only the part you failed. A skills retake is $107.21 and a knowledge retake is $37.49.
I'm a nursing student. Do I need a CNA course?
Not if you've finished a fundamentals of nursing course. Apply with Training Waiver 1101 and go straight to the competency test.
I haven't worked as a CNA in over two years. Can I still work?
Not in a federally certified nursing home until you retake and pass both tests. You don't have to retrain. In the meantime, you can work in hospitals and in facilities that aren't Medicaid certified.
How do I look up a CNA in Wisconsin?
Search the registry on Headmaster's TMU site by name or registration number. It shows eligibility dates, eligible facility types, and any findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation.
Sources
- Wisconsin DHS: Becoming a CNA in Wisconsin
- Wisconsin DHS: Maintaining registry status
- Wisconsin DHS: Nurse Aide Registry FAQs
- Wisconsin DHS: WisCaregiver Careers
- Headmaster: Wisconsin nurse aide testing and fees
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025
Last verified: October 2026. See something out of date? Report a correction.