If you’re looking to start a rewarding career in healthcare, becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is one of the quickest and most accessible ways to enter the field. Whether you’re in Dallas, Houston, Austin, or San Antonio, Texas offers a wide range of opportunities to help you begin your journey.
This guide walks you through every step—from training to certification—so you can confidently pursue your goal of becoming a CNA in Texas. Plus, we’ve included location-based keywords to help you find programs near you and increase your visibility if you’re researching or marketing CNA training.
Why Choose a CNA Career in Texas?
Texas is one of the best states to begin your career as a CNA. With a rapidly growing elderly population and expansion in long-term care facilities, the demand for CNAs is high throughout the state.
Key Benefits:
- Fast-track your career in healthcare (as little as 4–12 weeks)
- Entry-level job with growth opportunities
- Work in top healthcare institutions like Baylor Scott & White, Memorial Hermann, or UT Health System
- Launchpad to advance into LPN or RN roles later
What is a CNA?
A Certified Nursing Assistant is a frontline healthcare worker who helps patients with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, feeding, and mobility. CNAs work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and private homes.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a CNA in Texas
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before enrolling in a CNA program in Texas, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old (some programs accept 16+ with parental consent)
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Pass a criminal background check
Be up to date with immunizations and TB testing
Step 2: Enroll in a Texas-Approved CNA Training Program
To become a CNA in Texas, you must complete a state-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP).
Program Highlights:
- Duration: 4–12 weeks
- Total Hours: 100 hours minimum
- 60 hours of classroom instruction
- 40 hours of clinical training
- 60 hours of classroom instruction
✅ Make sure your program is approved by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).
Top CNA Programs in Texas by Location
Here are some of the best CNA programs in Texas:
Dallas-Fort Worth:
- El Centro College CNA Program
- Dallas Career Institute
- Tarrant County College CNA Training
Houston:
- Houston Community College
- Medical Career Institute
- Pima Medical Institute – Houston
Austin:
- Austin Community College
- American Medical Institute
- Excel Learning Center
San Antonio:
- St. Philip’s College
- Southern Careers Institute
- Quest College CNA Program
Use search terms like:
- CNA classes near me in Texas
- State-approved CNA training in Houston
- Certified nursing assistant programs in Dallas
Step 3: Complete Your Training
During training, you’ll learn:
Classroom Subjects:
- Infection control
- Vital signs monitoring
- Communication skills
- Patient rights and ethics
- Basic anatomy and physiology
Clinical Skills:
- Assisting with bathing, dressing, feeding
- Repositioning patients
- Using medical equipment
- Emergency response techniques
Most Texas CNA programs also provide CPR certification as part of the course.
Step 4: Pass the CNA Certification Exam in Texas
After completing the training, you must pass the Texas Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation. This exam is administered by Pearson VUE.
Exam Structure:
- Written/Oral Exam – 70 multiple-choice questions
- Skills Evaluation – Demonstrate 5 randomly selected nursing skills
You must pass both parts to be listed on the Texas Nurse Aide Registry.
📍 You can take the exam at various Pearson VUE testing centers across Texas, including major cities like Houston, Dallas, and El Paso.
Step 5: Get Listed on the Texas Nurse Aide Registry
Once you pass the certification exam, your name will be added to the Texas Nurse Aide Registry.
This makes you eligible to:
- Work legally as a CNA in Texas
Apply for CNA jobs in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies
How Much Does CNA Training Cost in Texas?
CNA training in Texas is relatively affordable, with tuition ranging from $600 to $1,800 depending on the program and location.
Some employers, such as nursing homes, offer free CNA training in Texas in exchange for a work commitment after certification.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
You may be eligible for:
- Texas Public Education Grant (TPEG)
- Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding
- Scholarships from Texas Nurses Association
- Employer-sponsored tuition programs
💡 Check with local Workforce Solutions offices for assistance with CNA training funding.
Job Outlook and Salary for CNAs in Texas
Salary Range:
- $28,000–$35,000 per year, depending on city and experience
Top Cities for CNA Employment in Texas:
- Houston
- Dallas-Fort Worth
- San Antonio
- Austin
- El Paso
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for CNAs in Texas is expected to grow by 8% by 2030, faster than average.
CNA Work Settings in Texas
- Long-term care facilities
- Assisted living centers
- Rehabilitation clinics
- Hospitals (e.g., Texas Children’s Hospital, Parkland Health)
- Private home healthcare
Tips for Success as a CNA in Texas
- Build strong communication and empathy skills
- Stay updated on Texas CNA renewal guidelines (every 2 years with 24 hours of continuing education)
- Join professional organizations like the Texas Nurses Association
Consider career advancement through CNA to RN bridge programs in Texas
Conclusion
Becoming a CNA in Texas is a smart and achievable goal for anyone looking to start a career in healthcare. With short training times, affordable programs, and a high demand for skilled professionals, Texas offers everything you need to get started.
From Dallas to Houston, and Austin to El Paso, CNA programs in Texas are accessible, flexible, and designed to support your professional growth.
Take the first step today by finding a CNA training program near you in Texas—and begin your journey toward a meaningful and impactful career in healthcare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most CNA programs in Texas take 4 to 12 weeks, including classroom and clinical hours.
The exam is manageable with proper training. Most students pass on their first or second attempt, especially if they practice hands-on skills regularly.
Some programs may accept applicants without a diploma, but most require a GED or equivalent.
Some programs offer hybrid models, where theory is online, and clinical hours are in person. Always confirm that the program is state-approved.
Yes. Some employers, especially nursing homes and assisted living facilities, offer free CNA training in exchange for a work contract.
You must renew your CNA certification every 2 years and complete 24 hours of in-service education.
Yes, through a process called reciprocity. You must apply with the Texas Nurse Aide Registry and meet their eligibility requirements.