CNA Requirements in Colorado 2026
To become a Certified Nurse Aide in Colorado, you must complete a state-approved training program and pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP), administered by Credentia. The Colorado State Board of Nursing oversees certification. New candidates apply online through Credentia and must pass both exam components within two years of submitting their application.
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Colorado CNA certification is regulated by the State Board of Nursing, which operates under the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). The path to certification follows a consistent sequence: complete an approved training program, clear a background check, pass the NNAAP exam, and be listed on the Colorado Nurse Aide Registry. Out-of-state CNAs in good standing can often transfer certification without retesting.
Use the links below to jump to training requirements, exam details, the application process, and renewal information.
Certification requirements, fees, and testing policies may change. Always verify current requirements with the Colorado Board of Nursing and Credentia before applying.
- Training requirements
- Background check
- Certification exam
- Application process
- Endorsement from another state
- Renewal and registry maintenance
- Reinstatement
- Military spouses
Training Requirements
Prospective CNAs must complete a training program approved by the Colorado State Board of Nursing. Colorado-approved programs must meet the state’s minimum requirements. Candidates who completed a program approved by another state can also qualify to test in Colorado.
Colorado’s minimum training requirement is 75 hours, combining classroom instruction with hands-on clinical skills practice. Programs vary in length, but most can be completed in a few weeks to a semester.
Alternative Eligibility Routes
Not every candidate needs to complete a full CNA training program. Colorado recognizes several paths for individuals who already have relevant healthcare education or experience.
RNs, LPNs, and licensed psychiatric technicians who hold or previously held licensure in any U.S. state or territory can apply to test directly. Nursing or psy-tech students who haven’t yet been licensed can qualify after completing at least five semester credits of nursing fundamentals coursework.
Nurses trained outside the United States may also be approved to test. These applicants typically submit translated transcripts documenting equivalent nursing fundamentals coursework to the Board for review.
Military healthcare training may also satisfy the training requirement. Candidates submit transcripts to the Board of Nursing. If the Board determines the training is equivalent to CNA training, it issues an eligibility letter, which is then submitted to Credentia along with the exam application.
Nurses considering an LPN credential can review LPN requirements in Colorado. Those looking to move from CNA to a licensed nursing role can explore CNA-to-RN bridge programs.
Background Check
All CNA candidates in Colorado undergo a criminal background check that covers both state records through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation and federal records through FBI fingerprint screening.
A prior conviction doesn’t automatically disqualify you. Colorado reviews each case individually. The Board considers the nature of the offense, how much time has passed, and the surrounding circumstances. Common factors that receive closer scrutiny include felony convictions, offenses involving violence or abuse, and certain drug-related convictions. If you have questions about your eligibility, contact the Board of Nursing before beginning the application process.
The Certification Exam
Colorado CNAs take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP), administered by Credentia. The exam has two components: a written knowledge test and a hands-on skills evaluation. The written portion can also be taken as an oral exam, available in English or Spanish. Both components are typically scheduled on the same day.
Exam Fees
Exam fees are set by Credentia and are subject to change. Check the current fee schedule at credentia.com/test-takers/co/ before applying. Separate fees apply for the full exam, a skills-only retake, and a written or oral-only retake. Payment is accepted by credit card, debit card, or electronic voucher at the time of application. All exam fees are non-refundable.
Retakes and the Exam Window
Candidates who fail one component only need to retake that portion. Three total attempts are allowed. A candidate who fails all three must complete a new state-approved training program before reapplying.
All candidates must pass both components within two (2) years (24 months) after Credentia receives their application. If the application expires before both components are passed, a new application with fees is required. Confirm the exact current window requirements in the Colorado Candidate Handbook at credentia.com before applying.
The Application Process
Most candidates apply online through Credentia at credentia.com/test-takers/co/. Credentia’s candidate handbook details the documentation requirements for each eligibility route.
New candidates who completed a Colorado training program include a proof-of-training affidavit. Those trained out of state attach a copy of their training certificate. Nurses and psy-techs include copies of their licenses or transcripts documenting qualifying nursing fundamentals coursework.
Candidates with prior discipline on a nursing license must check the relevant screening question on the application and include written documentation. These applications are reviewed by the Nurse Aide Advisory Committee, which increases processing time.
Candidates whose CNA certification was previously revoked or surrendered are subject to waiting periods before reapplying, and must also complete retraining at an approved program before applying by examination. Contact the Colorado Board of Nursing directly to confirm the current waiting period requirements and what documentation is required before you can submit an application.
Internationally trained nurses should contact the Board of Nursing directly before applying. The Board can be reached at:
Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations
1560 Broadway, Suite 1350
Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (303) 894-7800
Email: [email protected]
Endorsement from Another State
CNAs certified by examination in another U.S. state or territory can apply for Colorado certification by endorsement, without retaking the exam, provided their certification is current and in good standing. Endorsement applications are submitted online through the DORA licensing portal.
If your home state certification can’t be verified through the online system, you’ll need to supply verification directly.
An out-of-state CNA who meets Colorado’s requirements may begin working in Colorado before their endorsement is complete, as long as the employer has verified their out-of-state status. That provisional window is four months. If the Colorado certification isn’t complete within that time, eligibility for provisional employment is lost. Application status can be monitored through the DORA online licensing system.
Renewal and Registry Maintenance
Colorado CNA certifications expire on January 31 of odd-numbered years. Renewal is completed online through the DORA licensing portal during the renewal window.
To renew, you must document at least eight hours of paid nursing-related services performed as a CNA during the current certification period. No continuing education is required for CNA renewal in Colorado.
If you’re not currently working as a CNA, plan ahead. Once the renewal deadline passes without the required work hours documented, you’ll need to pursue reinstatement rather than standard renewal.
Reinstatement
A CNA whose certification expired less than two years ago and who can document at least eight hours of paid CNA employment in the previous two years may apply for reinstatement through the DORA licensing portal.
If the required work hours aren’t documented, reinstatement by examination is available through Credentia. This process follows the same application and exam requirements as initial certification. Candidates who haven’t worked the required hours and whose certification has been lapsed for an extended period may need to complete a new training program before retesting.
Military Spouses
Colorado provides licensing accommodations for spouses of active U.S. Armed Forces members. Under these provisions, military spouses may be able to begin working in certain healthcare roles before completing the full state certification process, provided they hold an active credential in another jurisdiction.
Military spouse licensing laws have changed in recent years. Verify the current provisions and any time limits directly with the Colorado Board of Nursing before relying on this exemption. If you expect to remain in Colorado for an extended period, begin the Colorado credentialing process as soon as possible.
Find nursing licensure requirements by state for RNs, LPNs, LVNs, and advanced practice nurses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who administers the CNA exam in Colorado?
Credentia administers the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) in Colorado and manages the Colorado Nurse Aide Registry on behalf of the State Board of Nursing. Applications and scheduling are handled online at credentia.com/test-takers/co/.
How many training hours does Colorado require for CNA certification?
Colorado requires a minimum of 75 hours of training through a state-approved program. Training includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice. Licensed nurses, psy-techs, and qualifying nursing students may be eligible to test without completing a CNA-specific program.
How long does Colorado CNA certification last?
Colorado CNA certifications expire on January 31 of odd-numbered years. To renew, you must document at least eight hours of paid CNA employment during the certification period. Colorado does not require continuing education for CNA renewal.
Can I work in Colorado if I’m certified as a CNA in another state?
Yes. Out-of-state CNAs who are currently in good standing can apply for Colorado certification by endorsement without retaking the exam. With employer verification of your out-of-state status, you can also begin working in Colorado for up to four months while your endorsement is processed.
Does a criminal record prevent CNA certification in Colorado?
Not automatically. Colorado reviews criminal histories on a case-by-case basis, considering the nature and timing of the offense. Contact the Board of Nursing before applying if you have concerns about your record. Candidates with prior nursing license discipline or a revoked CNA certification go through the Nurse Aide Advisory Committee review process.
Key Takeaways
- Credentia manages Colorado’s CNA exam and registry — The NNAAP is no longer administered by Pearson VUE. Applications and scheduling go through credentia.com/test-takers/co/.
- 75 hours of approved training are required — Colorado-approved programs cover both classroom instruction and clinical skills. Licensed nurses and psy-techs may qualify to test without completing a CNA program.
- Both exam components must be passed within 24 months — The window starts when Credentia receives your application. Three attempts are allowed before re-enrollment in a training program is required.
- Certifications renew on a fixed cycle — Colorado CNA certifications expire on January 31 of odd-numbered years. Eight hours of paid CNA work are required to renew. No CE is required.
- Out-of-state CNAs can endorse without retesting — Active, in-good-standing certification from another state qualifies you to apply for Colorado endorsement. Provisional employment is available for up to four months during the process.
Find Colorado-approved CNA training programs, application links, and state certification requirements for your situation.