How you'll help
Nursing assistants support patients with essential daily care in healthcare settings, residential, or in-home settings.
- Personal care – Assists with bathing, dressing, grooming, and hygiene
- Mobility and meals – Helping patients move safely and eat comfortably
- Health monitoring – Tracks vitals signs and patient health
I feel honored and blessed to have the career I have. I truly love caring for others.
Where you'll work
Nursing assistants provide care in a variety of healthcare settings, including:
- Skilled nursing facilities where you provide 24/7 personal care.
- Hospitals where you care for patients in a medical setting.
- Assisted living facilities where you support residents in a larger community environment.
- Adult family homes supporting 2-8 residents in a small home setting.
- Private homes where you help individuals live independently in their own space.
The average wage for a nursing assistant certified is $18.90 - $23.55 per hour in Washington State, 15% higher than national average. Salary figures vary based on the employer, location, and years of experience.
This role might be right for you if...
You stay calm when things get busy. You pay attention to details and want to help people in healthcare settings. You’re ready to give personal care, check on health needs, and help with daily tasks. You work well with others and want hands‑on care to be part of your day.
How to become a nursing assistant certified
Build your skills
To work as a nursing assistant certified, you must finish training that is approved by the Washington State Board of Nursing. You can find a training program near you on the Nursing Assistant Training Programs webpage.
To learn about the different kinds of nursing assistant training in Washington, visit the Types of Nursing Assistant Training Programs webpage.
Step into your role
To become a nursing assistant certified, you need to pass the exam and get your certification from the Washington State Department of Health.
Go to the Nursing Assistant Certification Exam webpage to learn about exam costs and who can take it.
You can find all other requirements and send in your application on the DOH’s Nursing Assistant webpage.
Discover job opportunities
You can find a nursing assistant certified jobs by:
- Searching online for “nursing assistant,” “CNA,” or “caregiver.”
- You can also reach out to places you want to work, like home care agencies, Consumer Direct WA, adult family homes, assisted living, nursing homes, or hospitals.
- Your Navigator can also help you find job openings that may be a good fit for you.
Stay certified to keep making a difference
After you become a nursing assistant certified, you must renew your certification every year to keep your license active. To learn how to renew, visit the Department of Health’s License Renewals webpage.
Already a home care aide?
Fast track your nursing assistant certified through the bridge program.
Step 1 - You are here
Home care assistant certification
Step 2
Nursing assistant certified bridge program
- 36 hours of training
Step 3
Take and pass the nursing assistant certified certification exam
Step 4
Start working as a nursing assistant certified
Common questions
- What's the difference between Nursing Assistant, NAC, and CNA?
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In Washington when you get your certification you are a Nursing Assistant-Certified or NAC. The term CNA is commonly used to refer to the same role.
- How do I renew my nursing assistant certified certification?
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To renew your NAC certification in Washington, you must:
- Submit your renewal application every year through the Department of Health
- Have worked at least 8 hours in a paid nursing-related role within the last 24 months
- Keep your background check current
- While continuing education isn’t always required for NACs in WA, some employers may ask for it — so check with your workplace.
- Who offers nursing assistant training?
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Nursing assistant training programs are offered through various providers. These include private vocational schools, community colleges, nursing homes, and high schools. Find an approved nursing assistant training program near you.
- Are there career pathways in caregiving that can lead to nursing roles?
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Yes! Starting as a caregiver can open doors to a variety of healthcare careers. Explore Washington’s Nursing Career Pathways by visiting the Nursing Assistant Education page on the Washington State Nursing Commission website. Scroll down to view Nursing Career Pathways (PDF).