How to Become a CNA in Utah – A Complete 2023 Guide

Need a complete, step-by-step guide on how to become a CNA in Utah?

Welcome!

Here, we’ll make sure to mention EVERYTHING. This way, you know exactly what to do, when to do it, and how to do it. 

So are you ready?

Let’s begin!

How to Become a CNA in Utah – The 5 Steps to Certification

Here’s a rundown of the 5 steps to becoming a CNA in Utah:

1. Select a route to certification
2. Choose a CNA training program
3. Meet the program prerequisites 
4. Pass the UT CNA exam
5. Get listed in the Nurse Aide Registry

Let’s get to the details. 

Step #1: Select a Route to Certification 

Depending on your background, there are different requirements to become a CNA in Utah. 

The table below details this. 

NOTE: In this article, we’ll be focusing on new students. 

Step #2: Choose a CNA Training Program

As with any medical field, you need proper education. 

Now, when choosing a CNA training program, you need to make sure it is state-approved. 

Click here for a list of approved CNA training programs in Utah. 

You can choose to train with nursing facilities, community colleges, vocational schools, etc. 

The State of Utah requires a minimum of 80 training hours, with several hours dedicated to classroom instruction and clinical practice. However, a lot of the program providers add more hours for more training. 

That said, it will only take a few weeks or months to complete these hours. 

Step #3: Meet the Program Prerequisites

Each training provider will have different prerequisites. But to give you an idea, they usually require you to:

• Be at least 16 or 18 years old
• Clear a background check
• Clear a drug test
• Provide proof of all immunizations
• Pass a health exam
• Provide a negative TB test
• Meet other school admission requirements

If you meet the prerequisites, then you can enroll in the program and begin your studies.

Step #4: Pass the UT CNA Exam

After your training, you will be eligible to take the UT CNA exam. 

The Utah Nursing Assitant Registry (UNAR) administers its own CNA exam. They partner with several centers to conduct this. 

Click here for a list of testing centers in Utah. 

To schedule the exam, you can:

• Log in to your TMU portal and schedule there. You will be assigned your own portal, username, and password once you complete an approved training program. 
• Call or email your chosen center (if the testing site is not found on your TMU portal)
• Make a walk-in appointment (only offered by some centers)

Click here for a detailed TMU portal tutorial. 

You will also need to pay the appropriate exam fee:

• Knowledge test – $35
• Skills test – $55

What can you expect from the UT CNA exam?

The knowledge portion has 75 multiple-choice questions. You will need to answer everything in 2 hours. To pass, you need a score of 75% (that’s at least 57 questions answered correctly).

For the skills portion, you’ll have to demonstrate 5 nurse aide skills in 45 minutes. These are all selected at random. To pass, you need a score of 80% for each skill and 100% for the key steps. 

Step #5: Get Listed in the Nurse Aide Registry

If you passed the UT CNA exam, the UNAR will list your name in its registry. 

Once your name is there, you are now a certified nursing assistant in the state. 

YOU DID IT!

CONGRATS!

Frequently Asked Questions About CNAs in Utah

Let’s answer a few of the most frequently asked questions. 

What do I need to bring to the CNA exam in Utah? 

Here is a list of what you need to bring when you take the UT CNA exam:

• Your original ID with a photo and name that matches the name on your TMU portal. It must also be current and valid. 
• Scrubs
• Close-toed shoes
• Hair tie 

All other equipment will be provided by the testing site. 

What happens if I fail the CNA exam in Utah?

If you fail one portion and pass the other, you simply need to retake the portion you failed. 

Now, in Utah, you can retake the CNA exam 3 times within a year. If you fail the 3rd try, or if one year has passed, you will need to re-enroll in a training program. 

How much does a CNA make in Utah per hour?

Of course, the hourly wage will vary from person to person and facility to facility. 

On average, however, CNAs make $18 an hour in Utah.

How long will it take to complete CNA training in Utah?

While the program hours depend on the training provider, it generally takes 4-12 weeks to complete CNA training.

How much does a CNA course cost in Utah?

Again, the tuition fee will vary for each provider. However, expect to pay anywhere between $500 to $1,500. Of course, you can choose to train at a facility that offers FREE training in exchange for your service afterward. 

How long does my CNA certificate last in Utah?

Your CNA certificate is valid for 2 years. After 2 years are up, you will have to renew it if you want to continue practicing as a nursing assistant in the state. 

How do I renew my CNA certificate in Utah?

You need to log in to your TMU portal account. From there, fill up the renewal application and provide any necessary documents. 

Conclusion

And there you have it — how to become a CNA in Utah. 

Now that you know the 5 steps to certification, as well as how to go through each step, you can get started right away. 

So what are you waiting for?

Go ahead and select your route to certification. From there, you can work your way through the steps slowly but surely. 

Good luck!