CNA classes in Illinois
What Illinois requires to become a certified nursing assistant, how long it takes, and how to find approved programs near you.
- Required training
- At least 120 hours (+45 over federal)
- Exam
- State competency exam: written + skills
- After you pass
- Listed on Illinois's nurse aide registry
- Median pay (U.S.)
- $42,260/yr · BLS, May 2025
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Start matchingHow to become a CNA in Illinois
- Choose a Illinois state-approved nurse aide training program.
- Complete at least 120 hours of classroom, lab and supervised clinical training.
- Pass Illinois's competency exam (written or oral test plus a skills test).
- Get listed on the Illinois nurse aide registry and start applying for jobs.
Frequently asked questions
How many hours is CNA training in Illinois?
Illinois requires at least 120 hours of state-approved nurse aide training, 45 hours more than the federal minimum of 75.
How long does it take to become a CNA in Illinois?
With 120 required hours, most Illinois students finish in about 3 to 8 weeks, depending on whether the class is full-time, part-time or hybrid.
Can I take CNA classes online in Illinois?
Partly. Many Illinois programs put the classroom portion online, but lab and clinical hours must be done in person.
How much do CNAs make?
The national median pay for nursing assistants was $42,260 a year in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay in Illinois varies by city and employer.
Requirements change. Confirm current rules with Illinois's nurse aide registry before you enroll.
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