ColoradoCNA Certification Requirements

Colorado recently switched from Pearson VUE to Credentia for CNA exam administration. The state follows the federal minimum of 75 training hours and charges no state registration or renewal fees. Notably, fingerprint-based background checks are primarily employer-required rather than mandated by the State Board of Nursing for CNA certification. The minimum age for testing is 16, but most employers require age 18.

Colorado follows the federal OBRA minimum of 75 training hours

Colorado recently transitioned from Pearson VUE to Credentia for CNA exam administration

Knowledge exam available in written format or oral format in English or Spanish

Minimum age is 16 for exam; 18 required for employment at many facilities

Colorado DORA/SBON does not currently mandate specific CEUs for CNA renewal, but facilities must provide 12 hours of in-service education annually per federal requirements

No state registration or renewal fees are charged by DORA

Fingerprint-based background checks are typically required by employers, not directly by SBON for certification

There is no interstate compact for CNAs. Transfer between states requires reciprocity application to the new state's Nurse Aide Registry.