Free CNA readiness check
Ready for CNA class?
Seven quick questions. Then your own checklist for Washington or Idaho.
CNA requirements in Washington and Idaho
Washington
- Training
- 108 hours or more
- Exams
- Skills test at your program, then a knowledge test online
- State fees
- $85 application, $55 knowledge test
- Registry
- Renew every year for $95
- Diploma or GED
- Not a state rule; some schools ask
- Minimum age
- None in state rules; programs set one
Idaho
- Training
- 120 hours or more
- Exams
- Skills test, then a written or oral test
- State fees
- $34 exam plus the test site's fee
- Registry
- Free; renew every 2 years with 8 hours of paid work
- Diploma or GED
- Not a state rule; English and basic math expected
- Minimum age
- None in state rules; programs set one
Questions people ask
Do I need a high school diploma to be a CNA?
Not under Washington or Idaho rules, but some schools ask for a diploma, a GED or an English test. Idaho courses expect you to read, write and speak English and do basic math.
How old do you have to be to take CNA classes?
Neither state's rules set a minimum age. Programs set their own: Providence and Spokane Community College require 18, and some high schools offer CNA classes.
How much does the CNA exam cost?
In Washington, the knowledge test is $55 and the application $85; your program sets the skills-test fee. In Idaho, Prometric's written or oral test is $34 plus the test site's fee, and the registry is free.
Can I become a CNA with a criminal record?
Sometimes. Each state lists crimes that bar care work, some only for 3, 5 or 10 years. Check the list and ask the program before you pay.
How long does it take to become a CNA?
Washington programs run 108 hours or more and Idaho courses 120: a few weeks to a few months. You test after the course.
Checked Oct 24, 2026 against Washington State Board of Nursing, WAC 246-841A (nursing assistants), Idaho CNA Registry, 42 CFR 483.152 (training costs). Rules change, so each step links to its source.