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

Quick Summary: Ready to launch a fulfilling healthcare career in the Old Dominion? Becoming a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Virginia is a direct path to making a significant impact in patient care. This comprehensive guide walks you through every essential step: understanding Virginia's specific certification requirements (including criminal background checks for employment), finding Virginia Board of Nursing (VBON)-approved Nurse Aide Education Programs (NAEPs), mastering the Credentia National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP®) Examination, and exploring salary expectations across Virginia. We've included information on financial aid opportunities like G3 and FastForward, and crucial tips for career growth and maintaining your active status on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry. Whether you're new to healthcare or seeking a new direction, this resource is your launchpad for a successful CNA career in Virginia.

Introduction: Your Path to Becoming a Certified Nurse Aide in Virginia

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to becoming a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Virginia! 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 Virginia, detailing the steps to certification as set by the Virginia Board of Nursing (VBON), part of the Department of Health Professions (DHP). We'll cover everything from understanding the CNA role and meeting state requirements, to finding an approved Nurse Aide Education Program (NAEP), preparing for the state competency exam administered by Credentia, and exploring career opportunities across the Old Dominion. Let's begin your journey.

1. What is a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Virginia?

In Virginia, a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) 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.
• Following infection control procedures.

The CNA role in Virginia 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.

2. Job Outlook & Demand for CNAs in Virginia

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

The Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) and Virginia Career Works also highlight 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 CNA Demand Across Virginia

CNA job opportunities are widespread throughout Virginia, with varying concentrations by region:

• Northern Virginia (NoVA): The densely populated counties near Washington D.C. (e.g., Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun, Prince William) have a high concentration of hospitals, skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), and home care agencies, leading to the greatest number of CNA openings.
• Hampton Roads (Tidewater): Cities like Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Newport News, and Hampton have significant healthcare sectors with consistent demand for CNAs in hospitals, long-term care, and military-related healthcare facilities.
• Central Virginia (Richmond & surrounding areas): The Richmond metropolitan area (including Henrico and Chesterfield counties) is another major hub for healthcare employment.
• Roanoke Valley & Shenandoah Valley: Cities like Roanoke, Lynchburg, Harrisonburg, and Winchester also have established healthcare networks with steady demand.
• Southwest & Southside Virginia: While the volume of large facilities might be lower than in major urban centers, there's a critical need for CNAs in smaller community hospitals, nursing homes, and particularly in home health, serving geographically dispersed and often rural populations.

Exploring the Virginia Workforce Connection (VAWC) job board and connecting with local healthcare providers and VBON-approved training programs can offer insights into regional demand.

4. CNA Salary & Benefits in Virginia

Average Compensation

Salaries for CNAs in Virginia are generally competitive. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for May 2023, Nursing Assistants in Virginia earned a mean hourly wage of $17.83, translating to an average annual salary of approximately $37,090.

Wages can vary significantly based on region (e.g., higher in Northern Virginia compared to some rural areas), years of experience, type of facility (hospitals often pay more than some SNFs), and additional certifications or responsibilities. Entry-level CNA positions might start in the $14-$16/hour range, while experienced CNAs or those in high-demand areas can earn more.

Pay by Setting (Typical Virginia Estimates for CNA)

Setting	Average Hourly Wage Range (VA)
Hospitals	$16.00 – $22.00+
Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) / Long-Term Care	$15.00 – $20.00
Home Health Agencies	$14.50 – $19.00 (plus potential mileage)
Assisted Living Facilities	$15.00 – $19.50

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

Shift Differentials & Overtime

Many Virginia healthcare facilities offer shift differentials (e.g., an extra $0.75-$3.50/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 CNAs in Virginia, particularly in larger institutions, often receive benefits such as:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plans (e.g., 401(k) or 403(b), Virginia Retirement System (VRS) for some public employees)
• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)
• Tuition reimbursement programs
• Life insurance and disability coverage

5. Virginia CNA Certification Requirements (VBON)

To become a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) in Virginia and be placed on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry, you must meet specific requirements set by the Virginia Board of Nursing (VBON):

• 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 VBON-Approved Training Program: You must successfully complete a state-approved Nurse Aide Education Program (NAEP). This program must consist of a minimum of 120 clock hours, which includes:
  • A minimum of 80 hours of classroom instruction and lab practice.
  • A minimum of 40 hours of supervised clinical training in an approved healthcare setting (typically a nursing facility or hospital).
• Pass the Competency Examination: After completing training, you must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP®) Examination. This exam is administered in Virginia by Credentia. It includes both a Written (or Oral) examination and a Skills Evaluation.
• Criminal History Background Check: Virginia law requires healthcare facilities (especially nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home care organizations) to conduct criminal history background checks on prospective employees who will have direct patient contact. This is typically done by the employer prior to hiring. Certain convictions may prohibit employment and make certification impractical. The VBON may also deny certification or take disciplinary action based on certain criminal convictions.
• 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 CNA duties. This is usually required before starting clinical training.
• Application for Examination: Your NAEP 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 seeking endorsement, individuals with lapsed Virginia certification under specific conditions), but completing a Virginia NAEP is the most common route.

Always verify the most current requirements with the Virginia Board of Nursing - Nurse Aide section and your chosen VBON-approved training program.

6. Finding VBON-Approved Nurse Aide Education Programs (NAEPs) in VA

It is essential to select a Nurse Aide Education Program (NAEP) that is approved by the Virginia Board of Nursing (VBON). Only graduates of these approved programs are eligible to take the state competency exam and be listed on the VA Nurse Aide Registry. The VBON website provides a list of approved programs. Common providers in Virginia include:

• Virginia Community College System (VCCS): Many of the 23 community colleges across Virginia offer excellent, affordable, VBON-approved NAEPs. These are often eligible for financial aid programs like G3 or FastForward.
• Private Postsecondary Career Schools & Vocational Institutes: Numerous private career colleges and technical institutes in Virginia offer Nurse Aide training. Ensure they are VBON-approved and certified by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) if applicable.
• Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) & Hospitals: Some nursing homes and hospitals offer their own VBON-approved NAEPs. Facility-based programs 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 or current employees.
• High Schools with Health Occupations Programs: Some Virginia high schools offer Nurse Aide training as part of their Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways.
• American Red Cross: Some Red Cross chapters in Virginia may offer VBON-approved Nurse Aide training.

When choosing a program in Virginia, consider:

• VBON Approval: This is mandatory. Verify on the VBON website's list of approved NAEPs.
• Cost & Financial Aid: Inquire about tuition, fees (for background checks, books, uniform, physical exam, state exam fee – Credentia's fee), and available aid (G3 Tuition Assistance, FastForward, WIOA, Pell Grants, scholarships, payment plans).
• Schedule & Duration: Programs range from intensive full-time (e.g., 5-8 weeks for a 120-hour program) to part-time options.
• Location & Clinical Sites: Factor in commute times for both classroom and clinical portions.
• 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 VBON list of Approved Nurse Aide Education Programs.

7. What to Expect from Your Virginia CNA Program Structure & Duration

All Virginia Board of Nursing (VBON)-approved Nurse Aide Education Programs (NAEPs) must provide a minimum of 120 total clock hours of instruction and training. This is typically structured as follows:

• Classroom (Didactic) Instruction & Lab Practice (minimum 80 hours): 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, healthcare settings, ethics, and resident rights.
  • Communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Infection control, safety, and emergency procedures (including CPR, often integrated or a co-requisite).
  • 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 like dementia.
  • 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 40 hours): This hands-on portion must be conducted in a VBON-approved clinical setting, typically a nursing facility or hospital. Students apply their learned skills providing direct care to residents/patients under the close supervision of a VBON-approved instructor (typically an RN with specific qualifications).

Program Duration (for a 120-hour program):

• Full-Time Programs: Can often be completed in as little as 4-6 weeks, depending on the daily schedule intensity.
• Part-Time Programs (Evenings/Weekends): May take 8-12 weeks or longer to complete.

Regardless of the format, all approved programs are designed to prepare students thoroughly for the Virginia NNAAP® Examination and for competent practice as a CNA.

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

After successfully completing your VBON-approved NAEP, you must pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP®) Examination to be eligible for listing on the VA Nurse Aide Registry. This exam is administered in Virginia 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 always be Hand Hygiene (Hand Washing). Another skill will involve taking a measurement (e.g., blood pressure, weight, urinary output).
• 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 Virginia, 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 VBON-approved NAEP.

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 Virginia Nurse Aide Candidate Handbook from Credentia for the most current exam policies, procedures, skill lists, fees, and testing site information.

9. Getting Certified and Listed on the VA Nurse Aide 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 Virginia Board of Nursing (VBON). If you have met all requirements, the VBON will place your name on the official Virginia Nurse Aide Registry with an "active" status. Your certification number will be issued, and you will receive a certificate from the VBON. Employers are required by law to verify your active status on this registry before hiring you as a CNA. You can check your status online via the VBON License Lookup portal.

Maintaining Your Active Listing on the Registry: Renewal

Your active Nurse Aide certification on the Virginia Registry is valid for two years from the date of your last recorded qualifying employment or initial certification date.

• Work Requirement: To renew your active certification, you must have performed nursing-related activities for compensation for at least eight (8) hours within the preceding 24 months.
• No State-Mandated CEUs for Registry Renewal: The VBON does not currently require specific Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for Nurse Aide certification renewal itself. However, federal regulations require nursing facilities to provide at least 12 hours of in-service education annually to their Nurse Aides.
• Renewal Process: The VBON will mail a renewal notice to your address of record approximately 60 days prior to the expiration of your certificate. You are responsible for renewing your certification online or by mail before the expiration date. This involves attesting to having met the work requirement.

If you do not meet the work requirement within a 24-month period, your certification 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 certification has been expired for an extended period, you may be required to complete a new VBON-approved NAEP.

Out-of-State Nurse Aides: 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 Virginia Nurse Aide Registry through "endorsement." You'll need to complete the "Application for Nurse Aide Certification by Endorsement" (available on the VBON website) and submit it with required documentation, including verification from your original state(s) of certification. If your credentials meet Virginia's standards, you may be granted active certification on the VA Nurse Aide Registry without retaking the exam. Employment will still require Virginia-compliant background checks.

10. Real Stories: CNA Journeys in Virginia

Aaliyah's Start in Fairfax

Aaliyah, a recent high school graduate from Fairfax County, was keen to enter healthcare. She enrolled in a VBON-approved NAEP at a Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) campus. "The 120-hour program was comprehensive, and the clinicals at a local nursing home were eye-opening," she says. After passing her Credentia exams, Aaliyah was hired by a large hospital system in NoVA.

Robert's Career Shift in Virginia Beach

Robert, after working in tourism for several years in Virginia Beach, sought a more stable and personally rewarding career. He attended an NAEP offered by a private vocational school with weekend classes. "The instructors really prepared us for the skills portion of the state exam," Robert notes. He now works at a skilled nursing facility in Hampton Roads and finds fulfillment in caring for veterans.

Maria's Opportunity in the Shenandoah Valley

Maria, from a town near Harrisonburg, found an NAEP offered by a local healthcare training center. "Living in a more rural part of the Valley, I knew healthcare skills would always be in demand," she shares. After certification, she was quickly hired by a home health agency, providing essential care to clients in their homes across several counties.

11. A Day in the Life of a Virginia CNA

A typical day for a CNA in Virginia, whether in a bustling Northern Virginia 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 CNA/shift.

Virginia CNAs 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 Virginia CNAs

Are criminal background checks mandatory to become a CNA in Virginia?

Yes. Healthcare facilities in Virginia—such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home care organizations—are required by law to conduct criminal background checks on employees who provide direct patient care. Employers typically initiate these checks before hiring, and the Virginia Board of Nursing (VBON) may deny certification based on certain convictions.

Are Continuing Education Units (CEUs) required to renew my Virginia CNA certification?

No, the VBON does not mandate specific CEUs for CNA certification renewal. Renewal is based on meeting the work requirement: at least 8 hours of paid CNA work under licensed nurse supervision within the preceding 24-month period.

Can I work as a CNA in Virginia while waiting for my exam results?

After completing a VBON-approved Nurse Aide Education Program (NAEP), you may work up to 120 days as a “nurse aide trainee” while pursuing certification. You cannot work as a Certified Nurse Aide or count toward staffing ratios until you pass the exam and are listed as active on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry. Verify specifics with the VBON and your employer.

What if my Virginia CNA certification expires?

If your certification expires because you didn’t meet the work requirement, you cannot work as a CNA. To be relisted, you must reapply and pass both parts of the Credentia NNAAP® Examination again. Certifications expired for an extended period may require completing a new VBON-approved NAEP.

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

Apply for certification by endorsement with the VBON by submitting the “Application for Nurse Aide Certification by Endorsement,” verifying your active, good-standing out-of-state certification, and meeting Virginia’s requirements. If approved, you may be added to the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry without re-testing. Employer-required background checks will still apply.

13. Tips for Success in Your CNA Training and Career in VA

• Master the NNAAP® Skills: Virginia uses the NNAAP® exam. Practice every skill according to the official Credentia NNAAP® skills checklist (available in the VA Candidate Handbook), focusing on all critical steps.
• Understand Background Check Procedures: Be prepared for employer-conducted background checks. Honesty is crucial.
• Perfect Attendance in the 120-Hour Program: VBON-approved programs have strict attendance policies for the required 120 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 documented and verifiable to VBON to maintain active status. Keep your contact information with VBON current.
• Stay Informed: Periodically check the VBON and Credentia (VA) websites for any updates to regulations or procedures.

14. Advancing Your Career: Paths Beyond CNA in Virginia

Your Virginia CNA certification is an excellent starting point. Many CNAs in VA advance to other roles:

• Registered Medication Aide (RMA): With additional VBON-approved training (typically 68 hours) and passing a state-approved exam, CNAs can become RMAs, allowing them to administer medications in certain settings like assisted living facilities under RN/LPN supervision.
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): A very common next step. LPN programs in Virginia typically take 12-18 months. The VBON regulates LPNs.
• Registered Nurse (RN): Pursue an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a VBON-approved program.
• Specialized Roles: With experience, CNAs can specialize in areas like hospice care, restorative care, or dementia care.
• Healthcare Administration or Education: With experience and further degrees, CNAs can move into management, staff development, or become NAEP instructors (requires RN licensure and specific VBON qualifications).

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

15. CNA Training Costs & Financial Aid in Virginia

The cost of Nurse Aide Education Programs (NAEPs) in Virginia can vary:

Program Type	Typical Tuition Range (VA)	Additional Fees (Background Check, Books, Uniform, Exam, etc. Estimate)	Common Financial Aid Options
Virginia Community College (VCCS)	$1,000 – $2,500 (often includes some fees)	$150 – $300 (Credentia exam fee ~$140, background check, books, uniform)	G3 Tuition Assistance, FastForward, Pell Grants (if eligible), WIOA (Virginia Career Works), scholarships.
Private Vocational School	$1,200 – $3,000+	$200 – $400	School payment plans, WIOA, some scholarships, private loans.
Facility-Based (SNF/Hospital) Training	Often Free (if offered by an approved facility to prospective or current employees, by federal law for nursing homes)	Minimal or covered by facility.	Employer-sponsored.

Key Virginia Financial Aid & Cost-Saving Tips:

• G3 Tuition Assistance Program: Eligible Virginia residents pursuing high-demand credentials (including CNA) at community colleges may receive tuition coverage.
• FastForward (FFWD): State-funded program helping Virginians get credentials for in-demand jobs, often covering a significant portion of training costs for programs like CNA. Offered through VCCS and other providers.
• FAFSA: Complete for federal Pell Grants if attending an eligible college program.
• Virginia Career Works (WIOA): Contact your local Virginia Career Works Center for information on WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) training grants.
• Employer-Sponsored Training: Inquire with local nursing facilities about free NAEPs 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, including the competency exam.

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 CNA Journey in Virginia Today!

Becoming a Certified Nurse Aide in Virginia is a significant and rewarding step towards a career in the healthcare field. The Old Dominion offers numerous opportunities for dedicated individuals committed to providing quality, compassionate care. By understanding Virginia's specific requirements through the VBON, choosing a quality VBON-approved training program, successfully navigating background check processes 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 of Virginia and take that important first step.

Visit the Virginia Board of Nursing - Nurse Aide section and the Credentia Virginia Nurse Aide page for official program information, forms, exam details, and to embark on your path.

References & Further Reading (Virginia)

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 Virginia - 31-1131 Nursing Assistants" — www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_va.htm#31-1131
3. Virginia Board of Nursing (VBON) - Nurse Aide Information — www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Nursing/ApplicantResources/NurseAide/
4. VBON - Approved Nurse Aide Education Programs List — www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Nursing/EducationPrograms/NurseAide/
5. Credentia - Virginia Nurse Aide NNAAP® Examination — credentia.com/test-takers/va/ (Access Candidate Handbook here)
6. Virginia Career Works (for WIOA and job/training resources) — www.virginiacareerworks.com/
7. Virginia G3 Tuition Assistance Program — www.vccs.edu/g3/
8. Virginia FastForward Program — fastforwardva.org/
9. VBON - Registered Medication Aide (RMA) Information — www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Nursing/ApplicantResources/MedicationAide/