Scenic Idaho was listed eighth in the job growth market in 2017, according to U.S. News report. The trend continues by boasting a low unemployment rate according to an article in Forbes Magazine. If you are considering a career in healthcare as a Certified Nursing Aide, Idaho has much to offer.
Idaho requires Certified Nursing Aides to have completed a state-approved program and state exam. However, if you are taking courses as a nurse you can challenge the competency exam. The requirements are that you must have completed the first semester of an accredited nursing school in order for the exam to be waived.
Idaho CNA Certification Requirements
Here are some of the requirements that must be met prior to applying to a CNA program:
- Applicant must be at least 18 years
- Have a clear background check
- Current State ID with photo
- Demonstrate a ninth-grade reading, writing and comprehension skills
- Varicella, Hep B, MMR vaccines
- Proof of negative TB test
Idaho Classes & Testing Costs
In order to gain the certification for a CNA in Idaho, you must have passed a state-approved program and state-approved exam. The program will consist of 120 contact hours which is divided into 80 hours of classroom time and 40 hours of clinical time. Clinical time includes lab and hands-on learning in order for you to be fully prepared to step into a CNA role. The classes will take place in a licensed nursing facility. Idaho is strict in that the program requires 100 percent participation for the clinical rotation portion. On average the CNA classes last for a quick 3 to 4 weeks. From that point, you would go ahead and schedule the exam portion.
Costs can vary depending on the location of the program. The average costs can be as low as $400 to $1950. Some of the programs include the additional fees as one price. Additional fees are for books, scrubs, and stethoscopes. Some programs can be at a reduced cost depending on eligibility or need. For a list of low-cost programs please see this link.
CNA Classes & Nurse Aide Courses in Idaho
Here are some of the programs that we found listed below. Some of the programs will vary in costs and schedules. If you have any questions, please do contact them directly.
| Training Program | City | Zip Code | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blackfoot Heritage Sixth Grade | Blackfoot, ID | 83221 | 208-785-8838 |
| Blackfoot School District Office | Blackfoot, ID | 83221 | 208-785-8800 |
| CNA in Idaho | Boise, ID | 83705 | 800-748-2480 |
| Boise State University | Boise, ID | 83725 | 208-426-1000 |
| Phlebotomy Training Specialists | Boise, ID | 83705 | 888-531-8378 |
| Vision Charter School | Caldwell, ID | 83605 | 208-455-9220 |
| College of Eastern Idaho | Idaho Falls, ID | 83404 | 208-524-3000 |
| Lewis-Clark State College | Lewiston, ID | 83501 | 208-792-5272 |
| LCSC Testing Center | Lewiston, ID | 83501 | 208-792-2100 |
| Stevens-Henager College Nampa | Nampa, ID | 83687 | 208-467-0500 |
| College of Western Idaho: Nampa Campus Academic Building | Nampa, ID | 83687 | 208-562-3000 |
| North Idaho College Workforce Training Center | Post Falls, ID | 83854 | 208-769-3333 |
| Brookdale Twin Falls | Twin Falls, ID | 83301 | 208-735-0700 |
| College of Southern Idaho | Twin Falls, ID | 83301 | 208-732-6221 |
CNA Programs in Idaho Falls
College of Eastern Idaho CEI offers a great program with the ability to continue on if you wish to pursue nursing. The college offers both state-required CNA exams, the clinical and written at their location. This would be one less thing to worry about. Another benefit is that they offer CPR certification during the program. There are several locations so if Idaho Falls isn’t convenient you can check out: Rexburg, Salmon, and Arco.
CNA Programs in Pocatello
Idaho State University Offering some useful information about becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant is helpful while you are investigating whether this career path is for you. You can explore the PDF workbooks for the course that are free to view on their website. ISU offers flexible tuition payment and access to scholarships and grants. ISU does post on their website that you will be subject to a drug test prior to being accepted into the program.
CNA Programs in Cottonwood
Region 2 Professional Technical Academy This program is located in a high school and is open to juniors and seniors only. This is a great opportunity to learn a skill before graduating highs school and earn credits while you do it.
CNA Programs in McCall
College of Western Idaho This program is offered through Job Corps. The program is a convenient 10-week program two days a week from 4pm to 8pm. The College of Western Idaho can help with questions about tuition assistance. There are grants and scholarships available through Job Corp for this program.
Additional Idaho CNA resources
The information above is helpful for exploring a career as a CNA. You will find the information below to be helpful once you graduate, should you have any questions regarding compliance with state regulations.
Idaho Nurse Aide Registry
To contact the Idaho Aide Registry use the information below:
Nurse Aide Registry
P.O. Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0036
Phone: (800)748-2480
Fax: (208) 334-6629
Out of State CNAs
You can seek reciprocity from another state by completing an online reciprocity form. Before you apply be sure that you have a valid active license and you are in good standing with the other state Aide Registry.
CNA Renewal in Idaho
Once you’ve been practicing as a CNA in Idaho your license is valid for two years. The registry will notify you 45 days before your license is set to expire. You must show proof that you have worked at least 8 hours in the two-year time period and have received compensation for working as a CNA.
How much does a CNA make in Idaho?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics a CNA in Idaho makes on average $17.10 an hour or $35,560 annually. There are several factors that can affect a pay rate, location, and type of work. CNAs on the higher end of experience in Idaho can make up to $44,220 per year.