Module 4
How you actually get certified here.
You don't sign up for a class to start. You apply for the job, work on the floor as a paid helping hand, and when you're ready the facility sponsors your paid certification training. Here's the full path.
Step 1 — Ready to begin a rewarding healthcare career?
You don't need to enroll in a CNA class on your own. Start by applying for a CNA Trainee position at one of our facilities. You'll begin as a Resident Assistant, gaining valuable hands-on experience while preparing for your CNA class. We'll support you every step of the way on your journey to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant.
What is a Helping Hand (Resident Assistant)?
- A paid entry-level healthcare position
- No CNA certification required to start
- Works alongside experienced CNAs and nurses
- Assists with non-certified resident support tasks within the role's scope
- Provides real-world experience before beginning CNA training
This pathway lets you earn a paycheck while preparing for your CNA career — instead of paying for training on your own.
Step 2 — Start as a paid Resident Assistant
Once you're hired into the CNA Trainee position, you begin working as a Resident Assistant right away — earning a paycheck from day one. No tuition, no upfront cost. The facility invests in you because they want you to grow into a long-term CNA on their team.
Step 3 — Build hands-on experience before class
As a Resident Assistant, you work alongside CNAs and nurses, learn the residents, and pick up real skills under real supervision. This on-the-floor experience prepares you for CNA class — so when training starts, you already know the team, the routines, and the residents you'll be caring for.
Step 4 — Facility sponsors your training
When you and the facility agree you're ready, they send you to paid certification training. The facility covers it — you stay on payroll.
Step 5 — Complete training and testing
You finish a state-approved nurse aide training program and sit for the Prometric written and clinical skills exams. NORA and your recruiter help you prep.
Step 6 — Become a certified CNA
Once you pass, you're listed on the NYS Nurse Aide Registry and move into a full CNA role at the facility — at CNA pay and with a real career path ahead of you.
Is this path right for me?
A quick honest checklist. If most of these are yes, you're well-positioned to start as a helping hand. If not, talk to a recruiter — there are often ways to make it work.
- I'm willing to start on the floor as a paid helping hand, not in a classroom.
- I have reliable transportation to the facility.
- I can show up on time for the shifts I commit to.
- I'm open to feedback from the care team about when I'm ready for certification training.
- When the facility sponsors my training, I can commit to attending and passing the Prometric exams.
Frequently asked questions
NYS Prometric exam and training pathway — answered.
Source: NYS Department of Health · Prometric Nurse Aide Candidate Handbook