Your 2025 Guide to Becoming a Nurse Aide I (CNA) in North Carolina: Top Programs, Requirements, Exam & Salary Insights

Quick Summary: Ready to start a fulfilling healthcare career in the Tar Heel State? Becoming a Nurse Aide I (often referred to as a CNA) in North Carolina is a direct path to making a significant impact in patient care. This comprehensive guide walks you through every essential step: understanding North Carolina's specific certification requirements (including criminal background checks), finding NCDHHS-approved Nurse Aide I Training and Competency Evaluation Programs (NATCEPs), mastering the Credentia NNAAP® Examination, and exploring salary expectations across North Carolina. We've included real-world scenarios, financial aid information, and crucial tips for career growth and maintaining your active listing on the NC Nurse Aide I Registry. Whether you're new to healthcare or seeking a new direction, this resource is your launchpad for a successful Nurse Aide I career in North Carolina.

Introduction: Your Path to Becoming a Nurse Aide I in North Carolina

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to becoming a Nurse Aide I (often referred to as a CNA) in North Carolina! If you're looking for a rewarding career in healthcare where you can provide direct, compassionate care to those in need, this is an excellent starting point. This guide is specifically tailored for individuals in North Carolina, detailing the steps to certification as set by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR). We'll cover everything from understanding the Nurse Aide I role and meeting state requirements, to finding an approved training program, preparing for the state competency exam administered by Credentia, and exploring career opportunities across the Tar Heel State. Let's begin your journey.

1. What is a Nurse Aide I (CNA) in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the entry-level certification is "Nurse Aide I" (NA I). A Nurse Aide I is a valued healthcare professional who provides essential hands-on care to patients and residents in various settings, under the supervision of licensed nursing staff like Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Their primary focus is on assisting individuals with their basic daily needs, ensuring their comfort, safety, and dignity. Key responsibilities typically include:

• Assisting with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and feeding.
• Taking and accurately recording vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure).
• Helping with mobility: transferring individuals, assisting with walking, and repositioning to prevent complications.
• Observing patients' conditions and reporting any significant changes to the supervising nurse.
• Providing emotional support, companionship, and promoting patient/resident rights.
• Maintaining a clean, safe, and organized environment.

The Nurse Aide I role demands physical stamina, empathy, excellent communication skills, and meticulous attention to detail. It offers a deeply rewarding experience and serves as a strong foundation for those wishing to advance their careers in nursing or other healthcare fields. North Carolina also has a Nurse Aide II (NA II) certification, which involves additional training and allows for more complex tasks under RN supervision. This guide focuses on becoming a Nurse Aide I.

2. Job Outlook & Demand for Nurse Aides in North Carolina

The demand for Nurse Aide Is in North Carolina is consistently strong and projected to grow. This is driven by factors such as North Carolina's growing and aging population, leading to increased needs in long-term care facilities, hospitals, and home health services. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects steady national growth for nursing assistants, and North Carolina, with its expanding healthcare sector, contributes significantly to this demand.

NCWorks, North Carolina's workforce development system, also highlights Nursing Assistants as an in-demand occupation. Numerous openings arise annually due to both new job creation and the need to replace workers who retire or move to other occupations.

3. Understanding Local Nurse Aide Demand Across North Carolina

Nurse Aide I job opportunities are widespread throughout North Carolina, with varying concentrations by region:

• Major Metropolitan Areas: The Charlotte metropolitan area (Mecklenburg County and surrounding areas), the Research Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill - Wake, Durham, Orange counties), and the Piedmont Triad (Greensboro, Winston-Salem, High Point) have the highest concentration of healthcare facilities, including numerous hospitals, skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), and home care agencies, leading to the greatest number of NA I openings.
• Coastal & Other Urban Centers: Cities like Wilmington, Fayetteville, Asheville, and Greenville also have significant healthcare sectors with consistent demand for Nurse Aide Is.
• Rural & Western/Eastern NC: While the volume of large facilities might be lower than in major urban centers, there's a steady and often critical need for Nurse Aide Is in smaller community hospitals, nursing homes, and particularly in home health, serving geographically dispersed populations.

Exploring NCWorks Online and connecting with local healthcare providers and approved training programs can offer insights into regional demand.

4. Nurse Aide I Salary & Benefits in North Carolina

Average Compensation

Salaries for Nurse Aide Is in North Carolina are generally competitive for the Southeastern region. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for May 2023, Nursing Assistants in North Carolina earned a mean hourly wage of $16.90, translating to an average annual salary of approximately $35,160.

Wages can vary significantly based on region (e.g., higher in Charlotte or Raleigh-Durham compared to some rural areas), years of experience, type of facility (hospitals often pay more than some SNFs), and whether one holds an NA II certification. Entry-level NA I positions might start in the $13-$15/hour range, while experienced Nurse Aides or those in high-demand areas can earn more.

Pay by Setting (Typical North Carolina Estimates for NA I)

Setting	Average Hourly Wage Range (NC)
Hospitals	$15.00 – $20.00+
Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) / Long-Term Care	$14.00 – $19.00
Home Health Agencies	$13.50 – $18.00 (plus potential mileage)
Assisted Living Facilities	$14.00 – $18.50

Note: These are general estimates. Always research specific regions and employers.

Shift Differentials & Overtime

Many North Carolina healthcare facilities offer shift differentials (e.g., an extra $0.75-$3.00/hour) for evening, night, weekend, or holiday shifts. Overtime pay (typically 1.5 times the regular rate for hours over 40 in a week) can also increase earnings.

Common Benefits Packages

Full-time Nurse Aide Is in North Carolina, particularly in larger institutions, often receive benefits such as:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plans (e.g., 401(k), State Health Plan for some public employees)
• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)
• Tuition reimbursement programs
• Life insurance and disability coverage

5. North Carolina Nurse Aide I Certification Requirements (NCDHHS/DHSR)

To become a listed Nurse Aide I (NA I) in North Carolina and be placed on the NC Nurse Aide I Registry, you must meet specific requirements set by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR), Health Care Personnel Registry Section:

• Age & Education: While there isn't a strict minimum age to enroll in a training program, you must be able to meet employment requirements. A high school diploma or GED is generally preferred or required by most training programs and employers. You must be able to understand, speak, read, and write English.
• Complete a NCDHHS-Approved Training Program: You must successfully complete a state-approved Nurse Aide I Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP). This program must consist of a minimum of 75 clock hours, which includes:
  • Classroom instruction and lab practice.
  • A minimum of 16 hours of supervised clinical training in an approved healthcare setting (typically a skilled nursing facility).
• Pass the Competency Examination: After completing training, you must pass the North Carolina Nurse Aide I Competency Examination (National Nurse Aide Assessment Program - NNAAP®). This exam is administered by Credentia. It includes both a Written (or Oral) examination and a Skills Evaluation.
• Criminal History Background Check: North Carolina law requires healthcare facilities to conduct criminal background checks on Nurse Aides and other unlicensed personnel who provide direct care. This is typically done by the employer prior to hiring. Certain convictions may prohibit employment. Training programs may also require a background check for clinical participation.
• Health Screening: You must have a health examination, including a TB test (PPD skin test or chest X-ray if indicated), verifying you are in good health and can perform Nurse Aide I duties. This is usually required before starting clinical training.
• Application for Examination: Your NATCEP instructor or coordinator will typically assist you with the application process to take the Credentia NNAAP® Examination.

There are other pathways to eligibility for the exam (e.g., certain nursing students, out-of-state CNAs), but completing a North Carolina NATCEP is the most common route.

Always verify the most current requirements with the NCDHHS Health Care Personnel Registry - Nurse Aide I Section website and your chosen NCDHHS-approved training program.

6. Finding NCDHHS-Approved Nurse Aide I Training Programs (NATCEPs) in NC

It is essential to select a Nurse Aide I Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) that is approved by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR). Only graduates of these approved programs are eligible to take the state competency exam and be listed on the NC Nurse Aide I Registry. The DHSR website provides a list of approved programs. Common providers in North Carolina include:

• North Carolina Community College System: Many of the 58 community colleges across NC offer excellent, affordable, NCDHHS-approved NATCEPs.
• Private Postsecondary Career Schools & Vocational Institutes: Numerous private career colleges and technical institutes in North Carolina offer Nurse Aide I training. Ensure they are NCDHHS-approved and licensed by the NC Community College System Proprietary Schools office if applicable.
• Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs): Some nursing homes offer their own NCDHHS-approved NATCEPs. These may be free if you commit to working for the facility, as federal law prohibits approved nursing homes from charging for training provided to their prospective employees.
• High Schools with Health Occupations Programs: Some NC high schools offer Nurse Aide I training as part of their Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways.
• American Red Cross: Some Red Cross chapters in North Carolina may offer NCDHHS-approved Nurse Aide I training.

When choosing a program in North Carolina, consider:

• NCDHHS Approval: This is mandatory. Verify on the DHSR website.
• Cost & Financial Aid: Inquire about tuition, fees (for background checks, books, uniform, physical exam, state exam), and available aid (NCWorks WIOA funding, scholarships, community college grants, payment plans).
• Schedule & Duration: Programs range from intensive full-time (e.g., 3-6 weeks for a 75-hour program) to part-time options.
• Location & Clinical Sites: Factor in commute times.
• State Exam Pass Rates: Ask the program about their graduates' success on the Credentia NNAAP® Examination.
• Job Placement Assistance: Some programs offer help with resume writing and job searching.

You can search for approved programs via the NCDHHS list of Approved Nurse Aide I Training Programs.

7. What to Expect from Your North Carolina Nurse Aide I Program Structure & Duration

All North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS)-approved Nurse Aide I Training and Competency Evaluation Programs (NATCEPs) must provide a minimum of 75 total clock hours of instruction and training. This is typically structured as follows:

• Classroom (Didactic) Instruction & Lab Practice (e.g., 59-60 hours, varies by program but meets minimum): This portion covers theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills practice in a simulated lab environment. Topics generally include:
  • Introduction to the role of the Nurse Aide I, healthcare settings, ethics, and resident rights.
  • Communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Infection control, safety, and emergency procedures.
  • Basic anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.
  • Personal care skills (hygiene, grooming, bathing, dressing).
  • Nutrition, hydration, and elimination needs.
  • Vital signs measurement and observation skills.
  • Care of residents with common conditions, including cognitive impairments.
  • Restorative care and promoting independence.
  A specified portion of classroom instruction (typically covering safety, residents' rights, infection control) must be completed before students can participate in direct resident care.
• Supervised Clinical Training (minimum 16 hours): This hands-on portion must be conducted in an NCDHHS-approved clinical setting, predominantly a skilled nursing facility (SNF) or other long-term care facility. Students apply their learned skills providing direct care to residents under the close supervision of an NCDHHS-approved instructor (typically an RN with specific qualifications).

Program Duration (for a 75-hour program):

• Full-Time Programs: Can often be completed in as little as 2-4 weeks, depending on the daily schedule intensity.
• Part-Time Programs (Evenings/Weekends): May take 4-8 weeks or longer to complete.

Regardless of the format, all approved programs are designed to prepare students thoroughly for the North Carolina NNAAP® Examination and for competent practice as a Nurse Aide I.

8. The North Carolina NNAAP® Examination (Credentia): What You Need to Know

After successfully completing your NCDHHS-approved NATCEP, you must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP®) Examination to be eligible for listing on the NC Nurse Aide I Registry. This exam is administered in North Carolina by Credentia. The exam consists of two parts, both of which must be passed:

1. Written (or Oral) Examination

• Consists of 70 multiple-choice questions (60 scored, 10 non-scored pretest questions).
• Tests your knowledge on topics covered in your training program, such as physical care skills, psychosocial care skills, and the role of the nurse aide.
• You will have two hours (120 minutes) to complete this examination.
• An oral version (audio recording via headphones) is available in English if requested in advance during the application process.

2. Skills Evaluation

• You will be asked to perform five randomly selected nursing assistant skills.
• One of the skills will involve taking a measurement (e.g., blood pressure, weight, urinary output). Another skill will always be Hand Hygiene. You will be given an instruction card for each skill.
• A Nurse Aide Evaluator will observe and score your performance based on critical steps for each skill. You must perform all critical steps correctly to pass a skill.
• You will have a specific time limit (check the Candidate Handbook, typically around 25-35 minutes) to complete all five skills.

Attempts & Retakes: In North Carolina, you generally have up to three attempts to pass both parts of the exam within 24 months (two years) from the date you completed your training program. If you fail one part, you only need to retake that part. If you do not pass both parts within the three attempts or the two-year timeframe, you must complete another NCDHHS-approved NATCEP.

On Exam Day: Arrive on time. You MUST bring two forms of current, valid (not expired), signature-bearing identification. One ID must be a U.S. government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, state ID, passport). The second ID must also be signed. Both names must match exactly what was submitted on your application. Wear appropriate attire (usually scrubs, flat non-skid enclosed shoes) and a watch with a second hand.

Always refer to the latest North Carolina Nurse Aide I Candidate Handbook from Credentia for the most current exam policies, procedures, skill lists, fees, and testing site information.

9. Getting Listed on the NC Nurse Aide I Registry

Initial Registry Listing

Once you successfully pass both the Written (or Oral) Examination and the Skills Evaluation administered by Credentia, Credentia will transmit your results to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR), Health Care Personnel Registry Section. If you have met all requirements (including any necessary background check clearances for employment), DHSR will place your name on the official North Carolina Nurse Aide I Registry with an "active" status. No separate physical certificate is typically mailed by DHSR; your active status on the online registry serves as proof of your listing. Employers are required by law to verify your active status on this registry before hiring you as a Nurse Aide I. You can check your status online via the NCDHHS Nurse Aide Registry search portal.

Maintaining Your Active Listing on the Registry: Renewal

Your active Nurse Aide I listing on the North Carolina Registry is valid for 24 months (two years) from the date of your last recorded qualifying employment or initial listing.

• Work Requirement: To renew your active listing, you must have worked for monetary compensation as a Nurse Aide I, performing nursing or nursing-related services, for at least eight (8) hours under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) within your most recent 24-month registry period. This work must be verifiable.
• No State-Mandated CEUs for Registry Renewal: North Carolina DHSR does not currently require specific Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for Nurse Aide I Registry renewal itself. However, federal regulations require nursing facilities to provide at least 12 hours of in-service education annually to their Nurse Aides. So, if you are employed, you will receive this training.
• Renewal Process: The renewal process is primarily employer-driven. Your employer is responsible for verifying your qualifying work hours to the Health Care Personnel Registry. If you are working, your listing should be automatically renewed if the work is reported correctly. If you are not working or if your employer does not report, you may need to submit a "Request for Renewal Listing" form with employment verification.

If you do not meet the work requirement within a 24-month period, your listing on the registry will expire. To be relisted after expiration, you will generally need to re-apply for and pass both parts of the Credentia NNAAP® Examination again. If your listing has been expired for more than 24 months, you may be required to complete a new NCDHHS-approved NATCEP.

Out-of-State Nurse Aides: Reciprocity/Endorsement

If you are a Nurse Aide certified in another state and your certification is active and in good standing (no findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of property), you can apply for listing on the North Carolina Nurse Aide I Registry through "endorsement." You'll need to complete the "Application for Listing by Endorsement" (available on the NCDHHS HCPR website) and submit it with required documentation, including verification from your original state of certification. If your credentials meet North Carolina's standards, you may be granted active listing on the NC Nurse Aide I Registry without retaking the exam. Employment will still require NC background checks.

10. Real Stories: Nurse Aide I Journeys in North Carolina

Aisha's Start in Charlotte

Aisha, a recent high school graduate from Charlotte, was eager to enter the healthcare field. She enrolled in an NCDHHS-approved NATCEP at a local community college. She found the clinical rotations at a Mecklenburg County nursing home very insightful. After passing her Credentia exams, Aisha was hired by a large hospital system in Charlotte. "The program was challenging but very thorough. My instructors really focused on preparing us for the skills portion of the state exam," she says.

Michael's Career Shift in Raleigh

Michael, after working in the service industry for several years in Raleigh, decided he wanted a career with more direct impact. He attended a NATCEP offered by a private vocational school with flexible scheduling. "The smaller class sizes were beneficial, and I felt well-prepared for the NNAAP exam," Michael notes. He now works at a skilled nursing facility in Wake County and finds fulfillment in helping residents.

Brenda's Opportunity in Coastal North Carolina

Brenda, from a town near Wilmington, found a NATCEP offered by a local healthcare training center. "Living in a coastal community, there's a real need for healthcare workers, especially for our older population," she shares. After certification, she was quickly hired by a home health agency, allowing her to provide care to clients in their own homes.

11. A Day in the Life of a North Carolina Nurse Aide I

A typical day for a Nurse Aide I in North Carolina, whether in a bustling Research Triangle hospital or a nursing home in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is centered on providing compassionate and competent direct care:

• Beginning of Shift:
  • Clock in, receive report from the previous shift about resident/patient assignments, current conditions, and specific care instructions or changes.
  • Gather necessary supplies for assigned individuals.
  • Make initial rounds to greet individuals and assess immediate needs.
• Morning/Daytime Routine:
  • Assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): bathing, dressing, oral hygiene, grooming, and toileting, always respecting dignity and promoting independence.
  • Serve meal trays, assist with feeding if needed, encourage fluid intake, and accurately record intake and output.
  • Take and record vital signs (temperature, pulse, respirations, blood pressure) as scheduled or as indicated by the care plan.
  • Change bed linens, maintain room cleanliness and safety (e.g., ensuring call light is within reach, bed in low position).
  • Assist with mobility: ambulation (walking), transfers (e.g., bed to chair, using a gait belt), range-of-motion exercises, and frequent repositioning to prevent skin breakdown.
• Throughout the Shift:
  • Respond promptly and courteously to call lights and individual requests.
  • Carefully observe individuals for any changes in condition (physical, mental, emotional) and report these immediately to the licensed nurse.
  • Provide emotional support, active listening, and engage in appropriate social interaction.
  • Accurately document all care provided, observations, and any incidents according to facility policy and state regulations.
  • Adhere strictly to infection control protocols (e.g., proper handwashing, use of Personal Protective Equipment - PPE).
• End of Shift:
  • Ensure individuals are comfortable, safe, and their immediate needs are addressed before the next shift.
  • Complete all charting thoroughly and accurately.
  • Provide a comprehensive, factual report to the oncoming Nurse Aide I/shift.

North Carolina Nurse Aide Is are crucial members of the healthcare team, requiring diligence, keen observational skills, and a strong commitment to resident-centered care.

12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Aspiring North Carolina Nurse Aides I

Are criminal background checks mandatory to become a Nurse Aide I in North Carolina?

Yes. Healthcare facilities in North Carolina are required by law to conduct criminal background checks on unlicensed personnel, including Nurse Aide Is who provide direct patient care. Employers typically initiate these checks before hiring. Certain convictions can prevent employment.

Are Continuing Education Units (CEUs) required to renew my North Carolina Nurse Aide I Registry listing?

No, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) does not mandate specific CEUs for Nurse Aide I registry renewal. Renewal depends on meeting the work requirement (at least 8 hours of paid Nurse Aide I work under RN supervision within a 24-month period). However, nursing facilities must provide at least 12 hours of in-service education annually to their Nurse Aides.

Can I work as a Nurse Aide I in North Carolina while waiting for my exam results?

After completing an NCDHHS-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), you may work up to 120 days as a “nursing assistant trainee” while awaiting exam results. You cannot be listed as a Certified Nurse Aide I until you pass the exam and are active on the NC Nurse Aide I Registry. Verify specifics with NCDHHS and your employer.

What if my North Carolina Nurse Aide I Registry listing expires?

If your listing expires because you didn’t meet the work requirement, you cannot work as a Nurse Aide I. To be relisted, you must reapply and pass both parts of the Credentia NNAAP® examination again. Listings expired over 24 months may require completing a new NCDHHS-approved NATCEP.

How do I transfer my out-of-state CNA certification to North Carolina (endorsement)?

Apply for listing by endorsement with the NCDHHS Health Care Personnel Registry by submitting the “Application for Listing by Endorsement,” verification of your active, good-standing out-of-state certification, and meeting North Carolina’s requirements. If approved, you may be added to the NC Nurse Aide I Registry without re-testing. Employment will still require NC background checks.

13. Tips for Success in Your Nurse Aide I Training and Career in NC

• Master the NNAAP® Skills: North Carolina uses the NNAAP® exam. Practice every skill according to the official Credentia NNAAP® skills checklist, focusing on all critical steps.
• Understand Background Check Procedures: Be prepared for employer-conducted background checks.
• Perfect Attendance in Training: NCDHHS-approved programs have strict attendance policies for the required 75 hours. Be present and engaged.
• Study for the Written/Oral Exam: Use practice questions, review your training materials thoroughly, and understand core concepts like resident rights, safety, and infection control.
• Professionalism is Key: Maintain a professional demeanor, appropriate attire (especially non-skid shoes), respectful communication, and a positive attitude.
• Ensure Employment Verification for Registry Renewal: If you change jobs, make sure your qualifying work hours are properly reported or verifiable to NCDHHS to maintain active status.
• Stay Informed: Periodically check the NCDHHS and Credentia (NC) websites for any updates to regulations or procedures.

14. Advancing Your Career: Paths Beyond Nurse Aide I in North Carolina

Your North Carolina Nurse Aide I listing is an excellent starting point. Many Nurse Aide Is in NC advance to other roles:

• Nurse Aide II (NA II): With additional NCDHHS-approved training (typically 160-195 hours including NA I training) and listing on the NA II Registry, you can perform more complex nursing tasks under RN supervision in settings like hospitals and nursing homes.
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): A very common next step. LPN programs in North Carolina typically take 12-18 months. The NC Board of Nursing regulates LPNs.
• Registered Nurse (RN): Pursue an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an NC Board of Nursing-approved program.
• Medication Aide (in Adult Care Homes): North Carolina has a specific Medication Aide certification for working in adult care homes/assisted living, requiring separate training and testing.
• Specialized Roles: With experience, Nurse Aides can specialize in areas like hospice care, restorative care, or dementia care.
• Healthcare Administration or Education: With experience and further degrees, Nurse Aides can move into management, staff development, or become NATCEP instructors (requires RN licensure and specific NCDHHS qualifications).

Many North Carolina healthcare employers, especially larger hospital systems and community colleges, offer tuition assistance or pathways for employees pursuing further education.

15. Nurse Aide I Training Costs & Financial Aid in North Carolina

The cost of Nurse Aide I training (NATCEP) in North Carolina can vary:

Program Type	Typical Tuition Range (NC)	Additional Fees (Background Check, Books, Uniform, Exam, etc. Estimate)	Common Financial Aid Options
North Carolina Community College	$500 – $1,000 (often includes some fees)	$100 – $250	NC Community College Grant, Pell Grants (if eligible), NCWorks WIOA, scholarships.
Private Vocational School	$700 – $1,500+	$150 – $350	School payment plans, WIOA, some scholarships.
Facility-Based (SNF) Training	Often Free (if offered by an approved nursing facility to prospective employees, by federal law)	Minimal or covered	Employer-sponsored.

Key North Carolina Financial Aid & Cost-Saving Tips:

• FAFSA: Complete for federal Pell Grants if attending an eligible college program.
• NC Community College Grant & NC Education Lottery Scholarship: For eligible NC residents attending NC community colleges.
• NCWorks Career Centers: Contact your local NCWorks Career Center for information on WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) training grants and other support services.
• Employer-Sponsored Training: Inquire with local nursing facilities about free NATCEPs for prospective employees. Federal law dictates that if a nursing home offers the training and you go to work for them (or have an offer), they cannot charge you for any portion of that training.
• Propel NC / Finish Line Grants: Some community colleges may have specific local grants to help students complete workforce credentials.

Always get a detailed breakdown of ALL costs before enrolling: tuition, background check fees, textbook, uniform, equipment, physical exam/TB test, CPR certification (if required separately), and the Credentia NNAAP® exam fee.

Conclusion: Start Your Nurse Aide I Journey in North Carolina Today!

Becoming a listed Nurse Aide I in North Carolina is a significant and rewarding step towards a career in the healthcare field. The Tar Heel State offers numerous opportunities for dedicated individuals committed to providing quality, compassionate care. By understanding North Carolina's specific requirements, choosing a quality NCDHHS-approved training program, successfully navigating the background check process and the Credentia NNAAP® Examination, and committing to professional conduct, you will be well-prepared for a successful and fulfilling career.

Your journey to making a difference begins with your initiative. Use the resources in this guide to research programs in your area and take that important first step.

Visit the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) Health Care Personnel Registry - Nurse Aide I Section and the Credentia North Carolina Nurse Aide page for official program information, forms, exam details, and to embark on your path. A vital role in North Carolina's healthcare system awaits you!

References & Further Reading (North Carolina)

1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, "Nursing Assistants and Orderlies" — www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nursing-assistants.htm
2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, "May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates North Carolina - 31-1131 Nursing Assistants" — www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nc.htm#31-1131
3. North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) - Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR) - Health Care Personnel Registry Section - Nurse Aide I — info.ncdhhs.gov/dhsr/hcpr/nai.html
4. NCDHHS - Approved Nurse Aide I Training Programs List — info.ncdhhs.gov/dhsr/hcpr/trainprg.html
5. Credentia - North Carolina Nurse Aide I NNAAP® Examination — credentia.com/test-takers/ncna/ (Access Candidate Handbook here)
6. NCWorks (for WIOA and job/training resources) — www.ncworks.gov/
7. North Carolina Board of Nursing (for NA II, LPN, RN info) — www.ncbon.com/