Jake Flannigan, NP
June 24, 2025
Vermont recognizes Certified Nursing Assistants as Licensed Nursing Assistants who establish the core foundation of patient care through their direct hands-on services. The population of Vermont, which ranks as one of the oldest in the nation, requires every healthcare facility including hospitals, nursing homes, and home-health agencies to maintain a consistent flow of dedicated CNAs who safeguard patient dignity and comfort.
Students cannot enroll in fully online CNA training because state regulations require direct patient contact during clinical hours. Many Vermont providers structure their CNA programs as hybrid programs that deliver theoretical content through learning platforms while students maintain hands-on practice in skills labs and clinical experiences. Students can complete their online readings and video assignments at home before participating in mannequin practice at the campus before moving to partner facilities for direct patient care.
| Eligibility Prerequisites | Complete a state-approved LNA program, submit the online application with proof of education, clear a criminal-history fingerprint check, and meet health/immunization requirements |
|---|---|
| Certifying Board | Vermont Board of Nursing – Licensed Nursing Assistant Registry |
| Training Program Requirements | Minimum of 80 total hours in a state-approved course, including at least 30 hours of supervised clinical practice |
| Exam and Application Fees | $20 non-refundable application fee, combined written/oral and skills exam fees totaling about $55–$175 |
| Certification Exam | Pass both the NNAAP written or oral test and a five-skill practical evaluation within two years of program completion |
| Registry Activation Time | Added to the registry within two business days of passing both exam components |
| Renewal Requirements | Renew every two years by working at least 24 hours as a paid nursing assistant in the prior 24 months and submitting a renewal application |
| License by Endorsement | Out-of-state CNAs submit verification of active, unencumbered certification and qualifying work experience for reciprocity, no exam required |
Entry-level healthcare professionals in Vermont receive salaries that are competitive at their level. According to current Vermont data the average CNA salary approaches $20 per hour but hospital positions together with urban settings pay between $20 and $22 per hour. Annual pay can reach the mid-forties for CNAs through the combination of overtime work, shift premiums, and union contract benefits. The strong employment market exists because long-term-care facilities operate with permanent staffing shortages and hospitals depend on nursing assistants to keep their quality standards. The Vermont Department of Labor predicts that nursing-assistant positions will experience double-digit growth throughout the decade because of an aging population and retiring incumbent workers.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Vermont | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual CNA Salary | $34,800 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $16.73 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$44,500 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $34,800 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$30,200 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~4% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~480 | ~54,000 |
The skills gained through CNA work create an exceptional foundation to advance into nursing specializations. After gaining practical bedside skills many aides pursue practical nursing diplomas or associate-degree RN programs available at Vermont community colleges. Admission committees seek working CNAs who have patient care experience because they offer additional application points or interview benefits. Healthcare organizations that provide care for both hospitals and long-term facilities usually support employee education through tuition reimbursement or loan forgiveness benefits that reduce study expenses. Short training programs enable professionals to expand their roles by obtaining qualifications in medication administration, phlebotomy, and restorative therapy. Certain hospitals maintain formal career ladder programs which direct CNAs through multiple years to become specialist technicians and bachelor’s-level nursing graduates. Vermont CNAs can develop their entry-level certificate into a permanent and fulfilling healthcare career by using their direct care expertise together with employer backing.
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