Get Complete Knowledge on CNA Certification in Florida and License Renewal

FL CNA Certification Program features two different parts, independent of each other including:

NATP - Classroom Course Instructions and Clinical Training
CEP - Knowledge (Written/Oral) Test and Clinical Skills Test
The successful completion of both NATP and CEP allows nursing assistants to apply for a CNA Certification and listing on the FL Nurse Aide Registry. The listing with the state Registry also grants them legal permission to perform in various healthcare facilities throughout the state.

Nurse Aide Training Program (NATP)

The total duration of FL NATP is 80 hours, equally divided into 40 hours classroom education and 40 hours clinical hands-on experience. The training program is completed through technical institutes, vocational and community schools and colleges, private schools, nursing homes and American Red Cross CNA Classes.

Competency Evaluation Test (CEP)

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) has contracted Prometric, a national testing agency to develop, score and administer CNA Certification Test in the state. The content of the Written Test is 90 minutes and combines 50 multiple-choice test questions and10 pre-test questions.

The skill Test consists of randomly selected 5 skills. The candidates have to demonstrate these skills on a dummy or client for rating. A Nurse Aide Test Evaluator rates the candidate on the basis of his/her skills performance. The candidates must pass both the Knowledge Test and Skills Test to earn a CNA Certification.

Test Eligibility

Before the Exam, the candidates must complete certain requirements of FL DOH for eligibility to test including:

Complete FL Certified Nursing Assistant Application form
Submit the appropriate fee(s).

Submit to an FBI fingerprint background check
Prometric also provide testing accommodation to candidates who apply for documented recognized disabilities.

Certification Renewal

CNA Certification in Florida is valid for 2 years and must be renewed online or by mail to maintain its current status and rights to practice. Florida Board of Nursing (BON) requires all certified nursing assistants to complete at least 12 hours of in-service training each year to maintain valid credentials. In addition, they must also provide nursing-related services for financial compensation within last 2 years.

Renewal Fees

CNA License Renewal fees vary depending upon the status of Certification or License including:

Renewal fees for active license renewed before its expiry - $65.00
Renewal fees if active license is expired 31st December, 2012 - $115.00
Renewal fees for active license expired on 31st December, 2011 - $140.00
Renewal fees for 120 day Notified Delinquent active license renewal - $170.00
CNAs failing to meet the BON requirements for maintaining valid credentials must reapply for certification and comply with the state laws and rules.

The successful completion of both NATP and CEP allows nursing assistants to apply for a CNA Certification and listing on the FL Nurse Aide Registry. The listing with the state Registry also grants them legal permission to perform in various healthcare facilities throughout the state.

Nurse Aide Training Program (NATP)

The total duration of FL NATP is 80 hours, equally divided into 40 hours classroom education and 40 hours clinical hands-on experience. The training program is completed through technical institutes, vocational and community schools and colleges, private schools, nursing homes and American Red Cross CNA Classes.