How to Become a CNA in Tennessee
2026 Step-by-Step Guide — Career Academy Memphis
Quick Overview
Timeline
4–6 weeks training + exam
Cost
$1,350 at Career Academy (assistance available)
Requirements
18+, SSN or ITIN, background check, no diploma required
Career Outlook
High demand, $28K–$38K/yr
Step 1: Meet the Requirements
- ✓Must be at least 18 years old
- ✓Pass a background check — no felony convictions for abuse
- ✓Must have a Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN
- ✓No high school diploma or GED required — Career Academy offers the Ability to Benefit (ATB) assessment as an alternative pathway (score 70+)
- ✓No prior healthcare experience needed
Step 2: Complete a State-Approved Training Program
Tennessee requires a minimum of 75 hours of training (federal minimum), but most approved programs run 120+ hours. Training includes classroom instruction and supervised clinical skills practice.
Career Academy — 120 Hours Total
- Day class: Mon–Fri, 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM (~4 weeks)
- Evening class: Mon–Fri, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (~6 weeks)
- Location: 3355 Poplar Avenue, Suite 100G, Memphis, TN
What you learn: patient care skills, vital signs, infection control, communication, hygiene, mobility assistance, and 24 clinical skills required for the state exam.
Comparing programs? See our guide to CNA classes in Memphis.
Step 3: Pass the State Competency Exam
After completing your training, you register through the TMU (Tennessee Medicine Unit) testing portal to schedule your state competency exam.
The exam has two parts:
- Written/oral knowledge test — covers patient care concepts, safety, infection control, and communication
- Clinical skills evaluation — you demonstrate 5 of the 24 required skills (randomly selected) on a mannequin or volunteer
Career Academy is a registered state exam testing site — students test where they train, in a familiar environment.
Step 4: Get Listed on the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry
After passing both parts of the exam, your name is added to the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry — this is your official CNA certification. Employers verify your credentials through the registry before hiring.
- Renewal: Every 24 months — must work at least 8 hours as a paid CNA during that period
- Out-of-state CNAs: Tennessee accepts certifications from other states via endorsement (reciprocity) — no need to retake the exam if your certification is active and unencumbered
Step 5: Start Your Career
CNAs work in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, and clinics. Memphis has strong and consistent demand — typically 200–500+ open CNA positions at any given time.
Starting Pay
$13.50 – $16/hour
Experienced Pay
$16 – $19/hour
Many CNAs use their certification as a stepping stone to LPN or RN. See detailed salary data for CNAs in Memphis.
Career Academy is a registered testing site — test where you train.
Take the First StepFrequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a CNA in Tennessee?
Training takes 4–6 weeks depending on the schedule you choose. After training, you schedule your state competency exam through the TMU testing portal. Most students complete the exam within 2–4 weeks of finishing their program, so the full process is typically 6–10 weeks from start to certified.
Do you need a high school diploma to become a CNA in Tennessee?
No. Tennessee does not require a high school diploma or GED to enroll in a CNA training program. Career Academy offers an Ability to Benefit (ATB) assessment as an alternative pathway — score 70 or higher and you're eligible to enroll. No diploma required.
How much does it cost to become a CNA in Tennessee?
CNA program costs in Tennessee typically range from $650 to $3,000 depending on the school. Career Academy charges $1,350 all-inclusive — tuition, supplies, and state exam fee. Payment plans are available, and AJC/SNAP sponsorships may cover the full cost for eligible students. See our tuition assistance page for details.
What is on the Tennessee CNA state exam?
The Tennessee CNA competency exam has two parts: (1) a written or oral knowledge test covering patient care concepts, safety, infection control, and communication, and (2) a clinical skills evaluation where you are randomly selected to demonstrate 5 of the 24 required skills on a mannequin or volunteer. You must pass both parts to earn your certification.
How do I transfer my CNA license to Tennessee?
If you are a certified CNA in good standing in another state, you can transfer to Tennessee through the endorsement (reciprocity) process. You must submit an application to the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry, provide verification of your current certification, and pass a background check. You do not need to retake the state exam if your current certification is active and unencumbered.
Can I become a CNA in Tennessee with a felony?
Career Academy runs a FOIL (Finding Offenders in Locations) registry check. Felony convictions for abuse will disqualify you. Other convictions do not automatically prevent enrollment. Contact us at (901) 761-4500 if you have questions about your specific situation.
How many clinical hours are required for CNA in Tennessee?
Tennessee requires a minimum of 16 hours of supervised clinical training as part of your CNA program. The federal minimum is also 16 clinical hours out of a 75-hour minimum program. Most state-approved programs, including Career Academy, exceed these minimums — Career Academy's 120-hour program includes significant hands-on clinical skills practice.
How do I renew my CNA certification in Tennessee?
Tennessee CNA certifications must be renewed every 24 months. To renew, you must have worked at least 8 hours as a paid nursing assistant during the renewal period. Your employer typically reports your work hours to the Tennessee Nurse Aide Registry. If you have not worked during the period, you may need to complete a refresher course and/or retake the competency exam.
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