How to become a CNA in Indianapolis

$15–$22/hr in Indianapolis Free guide — no signup required

Why this pathIndiana has 45% more long-term-care beds per person than the national average. CNAs commonly bridge into LPN or RN roles after a few years.

Common starting roles

CNAPatient Care TechHome Health AideMemory Care Aide

Step-by-step roadmap

Choose a state-approved CNA training program

Indiana requires 105 hours of state-approved training. Many employers pay for training in exchange for a work commitment — ask about "free CNA training" programs before paying out of pocket.

⏱ 4–12 weeks💲 Free–$1,500

↗ Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis — Multiple campuses. Financial aid available.↗ Indiana WorkOne — May cover training costs for eligible Hoosiers.

Complete 105 hours of classroom + clinical training

Classroom instruction (patient care basics, vital signs, infection control) plus supervised clinical practice in a real care setting. Must all be through the same approved program.

⏱ 4–12 weeks💲 Included with program

Pass the Indiana CNA Competency Exam

Two parts: a written test (80% minimum on 100 questions) and a hands-on skills evaluation. Up to 3 attempts before retraining is required. Administered by Ivy Tech.

⏱ 1 day testing; 2–4 weeks to schedule💲 ~$100

Get listed on the Indiana Nurse Aide Registry

IDOH adds you to the Indiana Aides Registry after you pass. This is your official credential — employers verify your status here. No separate card or license.

⏱ 1–2 weeks💲 No fee

Apply to Indianapolis-area employers

IU Health, Community Health Network, Ascension St. Vincent, Eskenazi Health, and home-health agencies in Marion County hire CNAs continuously.

⏱ Ongoing💲 Free

Optional

Maintain certification every 2 years

Work at least 8 paid hours as a CNA within any 24-month period to stay on the registry.

⏱ Ongoing💲 No fee

Optional

Optional: Bridge to LPN or RN

Ivy Tech, Indiana University, and UIndy offer LPN and RN bridge programs. LPNs earn ~$20+/hr; RNs earn substantially more.

⏱ 12 months (LPN) – 4 years (RN)💲 $3k–$30k

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a Certified Nurse Aide make in Indianapolis?

$15–$22/hr in Indianapolis. Indiana has 45% more long-term-care beds per person than the national average. CNAs commonly bridge into LPN or RN roles after a few years.

How much does it cost to become a Certified Nurse Aide?

Typical out-of-pocket costs in Indiana: Pass the Indiana CNA Competency Exam: ~$100; Get listed on the Indiana Nurse Aide Registry: No fee. Many programs are employer-paid or covered by Indiana WorkOne grants for eligible Hoosiers — always ask before paying out of pocket.

How long does it take?

Choose a state-approved CNA training program (4–12 weeks); Complete 105 hours of classroom + clinical training (4–12 weeks); Pass the Indiana CNA Competency Exam (1 day testing; 2–4 weeks to schedule); Get listed on the Indiana Nurse Aide Registry (1–2 weeks); Apply to Indianapolis-area employers (Ongoing).

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Requirements verified against official Indiana and federal sources (Indiana Dept of Health, FMCSA, Indiana BMV, Indianapolis DBNS). Last reviewed May 2026. Found something out of date? Tell us.