New Jersey CNA Training

If you’re aiming to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in New Jersey, our resources cover the essential information you need. We provide insights into CNA training opportunities in metro areas like Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, Camden, Morristown and elsewhere in New Jersey. You’ll also find information about New Jersey CNA salaries to gain a realistic understanding of your potential financial prospects within this career path.

 Our directory guides you to various CNA training programs located throughout New Jersey. For those seeking cost-effective options, we highlight potential resources to find free CNA classes in New Jersey. We also detail the  steps to achieve your New Jersey CNA certification, from fulfilling the prerequisites to preparing for and taking the state-approved CNA exam.

How to become a CNA in New Jersey

Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Course
New Jersey requires a total of 90 hours of CNA training from a state-approved program. This includes 50 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical training.

Pass the NJ CNA Exam
Pass a clinical skills test and a written (or oral) knowledge test. The skills test includes hand washing and four randomly chosen skills. You must pass the skills test before taking the knowledge test.

Submit to a Background Check
In New Jersey, new nurse aide candidates and nurse aides applying for recertification or reciprocity must undergo a Criminal Background Investigation by the New Jersey State Police and the FBI.

Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Course
New Jersey requires a total of 90 hours of CNA training from a state-approved program. This includes 50 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of clinical training.

Pass the NJ CNA Exam
Pass a clinical skills test and a written (or oral) knowledge test. The skills test includes hand washing and four randomly chosen skills. You must pass the skills test before taking the knowledge test.

Submit to a Background Check
In New Jersey, new nurse aide candidates and nurse aides applying for recertification or reciprocity must undergo a Criminal Background Investigation by the New Jersey State Police and the FBI.

CNA Certification
After passing the exam and background check, apply to receive your official CNA certification, confirming your qualifications to work in the field.

Register on the New Jersey CNA Registry
Once certified, ensure your name is added to the state CNA registry, a crucial step for official recognition and employment eligibility.

Get Hired as a CNA
Upon certification, begin your job search to find CNA positions in healthcare settings, solidifying your role as a CNA.

New Jersey CNA Registry

In New Jersey, the Department of Health maintains the Nurse Aide Registry. This registry is a comprehensive listing of individuals who have successfully achieved certification as Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) in the state. It serves as a critical resource for verifying the credentials and status of CNAs, ensuring they meet New Jersey’s healthcare standards. The registry is used by healthcare employers and others to confirm that nurse aides are qualified to provide care.

NJ CNA Registry, PSI
3525 Quakerbridge Road, Suite 1000
Hamilton Township, New Jersey 08619
Phone: 1-877-774-4243
Online NAR Link goes outside of N.C. DHHS.

NJ CNA Certification

New Jersey offers several routes for CNA certification beyond traditional training, catering to a diverse range of backgrounds:

  • Reciprocity for Out-of-State CNAs: With specific documentation and employment history requirements.
  • Nursing Professionals: Including students, graduates, or foreign-trained nurses.
  • Military and Health Aides: Special paths for military-trained medics and certified health aides.
  • Hospital Nurse Aides: Criteria for those working in specialized units.

Free CNA Training in New Jersey

We’ve compiled resources for various free CNA training programs in New Jersey, including major areas like Newark, Jersey City, and Camden. Find the program that best suits your needs and take the first step towards becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant. These programs provide the necessary education and clinical experience to prepare you for the certification exam. Explore your options for free CNA training in New Jersey and start a rewarding healthcare career without the burden of tuition costs. Programs may be offered through community colleges, healthcare facilities,  such as new jersey nursing homes, and dedicated training centers – discover the perfect fit for you! Many programs offer tuition-free options, while others may provide reimbursement through scholarships or third-party state and private resources.


Free CNA Training in New Jersey

New Jersey CNA Training Programs



CountySchool NameAddressPhone
CountyNameInstitution AddressPhone Number
AtlanticAcademy Of Healthcare Excellence711 North Main St. Ste 13 & 14, Pleasantville, NJ 08232856-200-8341
AtlanticAllied Health Training Institute1750 Zion Road Suite 106, Northfield, NJ 08225609-241-8486
AtlanticAtlantic Cape Community College1535 Bacharach Boulevard, Atlantic City, NJ 08401609-343-4863
AtlanticKaring With Kindness700 New Road, Linwood, NJ 08221609-601-2150
AtlanticPrism Career Institute8025 Black Horse Pike Suite 250, West Atlantic City, NJ 08232856-317-0100
BergenBergen Community College400 Paramus Road HP310B, Paramus, NJ 07652201-447-7488
BergenBergen Home Care And Nursing136 Essex Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601201-342-3402
BergenBerkel Training Institute20 Breakneck Rd., Oakland, NJ 07436609-392-1855
BergenChristian Health Care301 Sicomac Ave, Wyckoff, NJ 07481201-848-5200
BergenLincoln Technical Institute240 Bergen Town Center, Paramus, NJ 07652201-845-6868
BergenPrestige Medical Solution50 Polifly Rd, Hackensack, NJ 07601800-880-1560
BurlingtonAmerican Training Center794 Forklanding Rd., Suite 100, Maple Shade, NJ 08052856-417-6882
BurlingtonBurlington County Institute Of Technology10 Hawkins Road, Medford, NJ 08055609-654-0200
BurlingtonBurlington County Institute Of Technology695 Woodlane Road, Westampton, NJ 08060609-267-4226 x332
BurlingtonMerit Training Institute2501 Burlington-Mt. Holly Rd., Ste. 113, Burlington, NJ 08016609-386-6400
CamdenA1 Allied Health Training Institute231 Market Street, Camden, NJ 08102856-203-3526
CamdenAcademy Of Healthcare Excellence220 Saint Mary Drive, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003856-200-8341
CamdenAcademy Of Healthcare Excellence6704 North Crescent Blvd, Pennsauken, NJ 08110856-213-6756
CamdenAmerican Training Center (Abigail House)1105 Linden St, Suite 100, Camden, NJ 08103856-417-6882
CamdenAngels Of Mercy Nursing Skills School505A White Horse Pike, Atco, NJ 08004856-809-6012
CamdenBroadway Vocational Technical School442 South Broadway, Camden, NJ 08103856-246-1070
CamdenBrooks Alternative Technical School701 Cooper Road Suite 11, Voorhees, NJ 08043856-282-3371
CamdenCamden County College200 College Drive, Blackwood, NJ 08012856-968-1296
CamdenCamden County College200 North Broadway Suite 228, Camden, NJ 08102856-968-1296
CamdenCamden County Technical School6008 Browning Road, Pennsauken, NJ 08109856-663-1040
CamdenCamden County Technical School (CCTS)343 Berlin Cross Keys Road Room 6-16, Sicklerville, NJ 08081856-767-7000
Cape MayCape Training Center3305 Bayshore Road, Suite 3, N. Cape May, NJ 08204609-435-5358
CumberlandAcademy Of Health Care Excellence @ Bishop Mccharty1045 East Chesrnul St, Vineland, NJ 08360856-200-8341
CumberlandAcademy Of Healthcare Excellence17 West Landis Ave, Vineland, NJ 08360-5838856-200-8341
CumberlandCumberland County Technical Education Center3400 College Drive Ext. 245, Vineland, NJ 08360856-451-9000
CumberlandRowan College Of South Jersey321 N High St, Millville NJ 08332 X-2385856-776-2372
CumberlandMedical Consultants Instructional Training Center207 Bogden Boulevard, Millville NJ 08332856-825-6655
CumberlandPrn Training60 Lebanon Rd., Bridgeton NJ 08302856-459-3222
CumberlandTouchstone Institute313 West Landis Avenue, Vineland NJ 08360856-457-6100
Essex4 Tees Health Care Training School70 Long Street, East Orange NJ 07017973-444-6512
EssexAcademy Of Training & Employment936 Broad Street Suite 1, Newark NJ 07102973-733-2727
EssexAmg Medical Institute554 Bloomfield Avenue 3rd Floor, Bloomfield NJ 07003973-601-5550
EssexBest Care Training Center68 South Harrison Street, East Orange NJ 07018973-673-3900
EssexCom-Tec Institute44 Glenwood Ave, East Orange NJ 07017973-677-0791
EssexC & C Nurse Aide Training1068 Clinton Ave, Suite 201, Irvington, NJ 07111973-373-6667
EssexDivine Tec Institute60 Evergreen Place, Suite 501, East Orange, NJ 07111973-373-6667
EssexEssex County College – Training Program303 University Avenue, Newark NJ 07102973-877-3220
EssexEssex Co. Voc. Tech.91 W. Market St., Newark NJ 07103973-412-2294
EssexExodus Training & Employment134 Evergreen Place, Ste.711 B, East Orange NJ 07018908-656-1275
EssexNurses Vue Careertek Training Institute134 Evergreen Place, Suite 502, East Orange NJ 07018973-678-6886
EssexQuality Dental School Of Technology, Inc.134 Evergreen Place Suite 601/603, East Orange, NJ 07018973-414-8618
EssexSamuel Morris Career Institute Of New Jersey701-703 McCarter Highway Suite 201, Newark NJ 07102973-648-8000
EssexUnique Medical Training Center1230 Springfield Avenue, South A2, Irvington NJ 07111973-371-0012
EssexUnity Healthcare Training & Employment2040 Millburn Ave Suite 401, Maplewood, NJ 07040201-618-3706
GloucesterRowan College At Gloucester County1492 Tanyard Rd, Sewell, NJ 08080856-415-2216
GloucesterAcademy Of Healthcare Excell (Rowan)256 County House Road, Clarksboro, NJ 08020856-213-6756
GloucesterCamden Co College @ Manorcare370 Fries Mill Rd, Sewell, NJ 08080856-227-7200
GloucesterManorcare W. Deptford550 Jessup Rd, W. Deptford, NJ 08066856-848-9551
GloucesterRowan College Glou Co1400 Tanyard Road, Sewell, NJ 08080856-415-2218
HudsonAcademy Of Training & Employment @ Alaris Healthcare595 County Ave, Secaucus, NJ 07094973-733-2727
HudsonCampus Education35 Journal Sq., 7th Fl., Jersey City, NJ 07306201-386-0700
HudsonCornerstone Home Care & Training198 Stevens Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07305908-349-8989
HudsonHarvard Opportunity School64-06 Bergenline Ave, West New York, NJ 07093201-869-8600
HudsonHudson County Community College870 Bergen Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306201-360-4243
HudsonPrestige Medical Solution7600 River Rd, N Bergen, NJ 07409800-880-1560
HudsonSt. Bernadine School Of Allied Health591 Summit Ave., Ste. 411, Jersey City, NJ 07306973-747-5252
HudsonWorkforce Advantage3608 Bergenline Ave, Union City, NJ 07087201-865-1199
HunterdonHunterdon County Polytech8 Bartels Corner Road Suite 2, Flemington, NJ 08822908-788-1119
HunterdonPassionate Healthcare1 Leisure Ct, Flemington, NJ 08822732-207-0538
MercerBerkel Training Institute320 West State Street, Trenton, NJ 08618609-392-1855
MercerE & S Academy684 Whitehead Rd, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648609-227-4488
MercerGrace Professional Training1213 Hamilton Ave., Ste 2, Hamilton, NJ 08629609-943-7560
MercerMercer County Community College102 N Broad St., Trenton NJ 08608609-570-3526
MercerMercer County Community College1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor, NJ 08550609-570-3526
MercerMercer Med Tech1418 South Broad Street, Trenton, NJ 08610609-712-5499
MercerNew Life Healthcare Academy827 East State Street, Trenton, NJ 08609609-638-1169
MiddlesexE & S Academy4081 Hadley Rd, Suite A, South Plainfield, NJ 07080908-222-8494
MiddlesexExcel Career Training97 Bayard St., Ste. 201, New Brunswick, NJ 08901732-828-8100
MiddlesexImpetus Systems & Careers850 Carolier Lane Suite 101, North Brunswick, NJ 08902732-246-4555
MiddlesexMiddlesex County College2600 Woodbridge Ave, Edison, NJ 08818732-548-6000
MiddlesexMiddlesex Co Voc Tech (MCVTS)21 Sutton Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854732-257-3300
MiddlesexCt America Inc66 Middlesex Ave, Suite LL-03, Iselin, NJ 08830908-247-4514
MiddlesexParam Institute Of Education200 Middlesex Essex Turnpike Suite 105, Iselin, NJ 08830732-404-1415
MiddlesexParker At Monroe395 Schoolhouse Rd, Monroe Twp, NJ 08831908-247-4514
MiddlesexSelect Health Career Training Center1550 Park Ave, Suite 202, South Plainfield, NJ 07080908-482-8304
MiddlesexUniversal Training Institute174 Jefferson Street, 2nd Floor, Perth Amboy, NJ 08861732-826-0155
MonmouthAtrium Post Acute Care Of Matawan38 Freneau Ave, Matawan, NJ 07728Not Provided
MonmouthBrookdale Community College765 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ 07738732-224-2816
MonmouthBrookdale Community College1 Crown Plaza, Hazlet, NJ 07738732-224-2816
MonmouthLtc Career Training444 Neptune Boulevard Suite 15, Neptune, NJ 07753732-988-1700
MonmouthMonmouth County Vocational School4000 Kozloski Road, Freehold, NJ 07728732-431-6292
MonmouthMonmouth County Vocational School280 Atlantic Street, Keyport, NJ 07735732-739-0592
MonmouthMonmouth County Vocational School105 Neptune Boulevard Suite 305, Neptune, NJ 07753732-431-7245
MonmouthMonroe Parker395 Schoolhouse Rd, Monroe, NJ 08831732-418-8632
MonmouthNr Training School51 Broad St., Freehold, NJ 07728732-333-0580
MonmouthNew Era Health Care Training92 Main Street, Matawan NJ 07747 
MorrisAce Health Care Training Institute Inc.8 South Morris Street Suite 202, Dover, NJ 07801973-366-7171
MorrisCounty College Of Morris214 Center Grove Road, Randolph, NJ 07869973-328-5085
MorrisMerry Heart Health Care Center200 Route 10 West, Succasunna, NJ 07876973-584-4000
MorrisMorris Hills Center77 Madison Ave, Morristown, NJ 07960973-540-9800
MorrisMorrisview Healthcare Center540 West Hanover Ave, Morris Plains, NJ 07950973-285-2800
MorrisHolly Manor Center84 Cold Hill Road, Mendham, NJ 07945973-543-2500
MorrisTroy Hill Center200 Reynolds Ave, Parsippany, NJ 07054973-887-8080
OceanAllied Health Training151 9th Ave, Little Egg Harbor, NJ 08087609-241-8486
OceanKaring With Kindness2801 Route 37 East, Toms River, NJ 08753732-288-1600
OceanLeisure Chateau962 River Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701732-370-8600
OceanLtc Career Training700 Highway 70 East Suite 2, Lakewood, NJ 08701732-364-9600
OceanOcean County Vocational Technical School1299 Old Freehold Road, Toms River, NJ 08753732-473-3100
OceanPrestige Medical Solution2008 Rt.37, Unit 2, Toms River, NJ 08753800-880-1560
PassaicAcademy Of Training @Cc At Fairlawn77 E 43rd St, Paterson, NJ 07514973-733-2727
PassaicAmg Medical Institute175 Market Street Suite 401, Paterson, NJ 07505973-278-0500
PassaicAnderson Health Institute305 Broadway Second Floor, Paterson, NJ 07501973-684-5024
PassaicAtc Academy680 Broadway Suite 7, Paterson, NJ 07514973-714-3370
PassaicBranford Institute Of Paterson302 Main Street, Paterson, NJ 07505973-881-9428
PassaicFortis Institute201 Willowbrook Boulevard, Wayne, NJ 07470201-532-6995
PassaicMilford Manor69 Maple Rd., West Milford, NJ 07480973-697-5640
PassaicPassaic County Technical Institute45 Reinhardt Road, Wayne, NJ 07470973-389-4100
PassaicWanaque Center1433 Ringwood Ave, Haskell, NJ 07420973-839-2119
PassaicWorkforce Advantage126 Market St., Mezzanine Level, Paterson, NJ 07505908-342-1073
SalemSalem County Vocational And Technical School880 Route 45, POB 350, Woodstown, NJ 08098856-351-2933
SalemSouthgate Health Care Center449 S. Pennsville – Auburn Rd, Carney’s Point, NJ 08069856-299-8900
SomersetCt America Inc.380 Demott Lane Suite B 101, Somerset, NJ 08873908-2474514
SomersetFellowship Academy1 E. High St., Somerville NJ 08876908-580-9425
SomersetMaries Allied Health & Technology Institute1543 Route 27, Medical Plaza suite 14, Somerset, NJ 08873732-565-0898
SomersetPrestige Medical Solution40 Norwood Terrace, N. Plainfield, NJ 07060800-880-1560
SomersetPrestige Medical Solutions @ Somerset Co Vocational14 Vogt Dr., Bld B, Somerset NJ 08807800-880-1560
SussexHomestead Rehabilitation129 Morris Turnpike, Newton NJ 07860973-948-5400
SussexAcademy Of Training @Cc Barn Hill249 High St, Newton, NJ 07860973-733-2727
SussexBarn Hill Care Center249 High St, Newton, NJ 07860973-862-5266
SussexUnited Methodist Comm At Bristol Glen200 Bristol Glen Dr, Newton, NJ 07860973-300-5788
UnionAce Health Care Training Institute Inc.930 Stuyvesant Avenue Suite 8, Union NJ 07783908-851-2700
UnionAdmiral William F. Halsey Health And Public Safety Academy641 South Street, Elizabeth NJ 07202908-436-6600
UnionB&M Career Center/B&M Consultants333 North Broad Street, Elizabeth NJ 07201908-355-9315
UnionBranford Institute333 North Broad St. Suite 201, Elizabeth, NJ 07208908-352-1004
UnionE & S Academy40 Parker Road Suite B1, Elizabeth NJ 07208908-866-6662
UnionHealth Care Training Institute1969 Morris Avenue, Union NJ 07083908-851-7711
UnionHealth Professional Institute960 Koehl Avenue, Union NJ 07083908-206-0600
UnionHpi School Of Allied Health979 Lehigh Ave, Union NJ 07083908-687-0808
UnionHumane Concepts Health Care1767 Morris Ave, Union NJ 07083908-688-8184
UnionUnion Co College/Plainfield Campus232 East 2nd St, Plainfield, NJ 07060908-709-7000
UnionWorkforce Advantage49 Broad Street Second Floor, Elizabeth NJ 07201908-355-2288
WarrenBrakeley Park Center290 Red School Lane, Phillipsburg, NJ 08865908-859-2800
WarrenLopatcong Care Center290 Red School Lane, Phillipsburg, NJ 08865908-859-0200
WarrenPhillipsburg Center843 Wilbur Ave, Phillipsburg NJ 08865908-454-2627
WarrenThe House Of The Good Shepherd798 Willow Grove St, Hackettstown, NJ 07840908-681-5720
WarrenWarren County Community College445 Marshall Street, Phillipsburg NJ 08865908-835-2333

CNA Salary

Comprehensive CNA salary by state. Our detailed guide provides insights into factors that influence CNA salaries, including additional certifications and negotiation tips for potential salary increases. Understand how your location, workplace, and professional development can impact your earning potential in the healthcare field.


See CNA Salary Info

CNA Exams

Extensive guide on CNA exams across different states. From study tips and exam content to strategies for success, we cover everything you need to know to ace your certification exam. Learn about the exam structure and how to prepare effectively, ensuring you’re fully prepared to take the next step in your healthcare career.


CNA Exams Info

CNA Skills

Master the essential skills for CNAs with our comprehensive guide. Discover how to blend hard skills, like patient care techniques and medical knowledge, with soft skills such as empathy, communication, and teamwork. This section provides actionable advice to develop and hone the skills necessary for excellence in your CNA career.


CNA Skills Info

NJ CNA Frequently Asked Questions

You must successfully complete a state-approved CNA training program and pass the competency evaluation.
Source: New Jersey Department of Health

The exam includes a written or oral section and a skills evaluation, both of which must be passed to obtain certification.
Source: PSI Exams

Candidates must submit an application to the testing service provider, PSI, after completing their training program.
Source: PSI Exams

CNAs must renew their certificate every two years, which includes submitting proof of continued employment and compliance with in-service education requirements.
Source: New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs

Yes, CNAs from other states can apply for reciprocity in New Jersey by submitting verification of their certification and employment status, as well as undergoing a criminal background check.
Source: New Jersey Department of Health

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in New Jersey find employment in a variety of healthcare settings. They often work in hospitals, where they assist nursing staff by providing basic care to patients across different departments. Many CNAs are also employed in long-term care facilities such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities, where they support elderly or disabled residents with daily activities. Rehabilitation centers also employ CNAs to help patients recovering from surgeries or injuries with exercises and mobility. Additionally, CNAs in New Jersey may work for home health agencies, providing essential care in patients’ homes, or in hospice care, supporting terminally ill patients and their families. Adult day care centers are another common workplace for CNAs, where they assist elderly adults who need support during the day. Each setting offers a unique environment and set of responsibilities, making the role of a CNA vital to the healthcare industry in New Jersey.

Finding a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) job in New Jersey can be efficiently managed through several approaches. Utilizing online job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Monster is a great start, as these platforms often feature a wide range of CNA positions. Additionally, checking the websites of healthcare facilities such as hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers can reveal direct employment opportunities. Engaging with staffing agencies that specialize in healthcare can also provide access to a variety of positions, including temporary and part-time roles. Networking plays a crucial role too; leveraging connections from clinical training, educational programs, or previous employment can lead to valuable job leads and recommendations. Attending job fairs and participating in healthcare associations can further enhance your visibility and connections within the industry. Lastly, volunteering in healthcare settings not only builds experience but also helps establish professional relationships that could lead to job offers. By employing these strategies, you can significantly improve your chances of securing a CNA position in New Jersey.

In New Jersey, CNAs can advance their careers by becoming LPNs or RNs through specific educational pathways. To become an LPN, a CNA needs to complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. This transition enhances their responsibilities, allowing them to perform tasks like administering medication and wound care. For CNAs aiming to become RNs, they must pursue further education through an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Becoming an RN opens up even greater career opportunities, including specialized fields within nursing. Programs like those offered at Jersey College provide the necessary training and support for CNAs to advance in their careers.

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