How to Become a CNA in NYC
Understand the training path, what to prepare, and how to reach our NYS-licensed school in Lynbrook from Manhattan or Queens.
The CNA training path in New York
To work as a Certified Nurse Aide in New York, students complete nurse aide training and meet the state testing and registry requirements. Diva Training Institute offers an in-person 125-hour CNA program at 300 Merrick Road, Suite 205, in Lynbrook, NY. The program includes classroom instruction, clinical training, and an on-site Prometric exam for enrolled students.
- Check your enrollment documents. Applicants need a high school diploma, GED or higher with an official transcript, a Social Security card, and a valid government-issued photo ID. Foreign diplomas must be officially translated and certified as equivalent to U.S. high school completion.
- Choose an in-person training schedule. Our CNA program runs Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM, for about four weeks.
- Complete classroom and clinical training. The 125 hours include 95 classroom hours and a 30-hour clinical externship.
- Take the competency exam. Enrolled students can take the Prometric exam on site at our Lynbrook campus. Passing the required exam is necessary for certification; completing training alone does not guarantee certification or employment.
Program cost and schedule
| Program item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $799 |
| Registration fee | $79 |
| Prometric exam fee | $115 |
| All-inclusive total | $993 |
| White scrubs (sold separately) | $25 |
| CNA textbook (sold separately) | $50 |
Payment plans are available. Classes are in person only; we do not offer online CNA training. Current cohorts and enrollment details are listed on the Enroll page.
So You’ve Become a CNA. Now What?
After completing training and passing the required competency exam, focus on confirming your status and preparing for your first CNA role.
- Check your registry status. Confirm your listing in the New York State Nurse Aide Registry. Prometric states that paper certificates are no longer issued for exams effective August 1, 2026; facilities verify status directly through the registry.
- Get ready to apply. Update your resume with your training and clinical experience, gather references, and confirm each employer’s credential and background-check requirements.
- Use placement assistance. Diva Training Institute provides placement assistance to graduates, but employment is not guaranteed.
- Keep your status current. Follow the latest registry and renewal requirements for New York nurse aides.
See New York Nurse Aide exam and registry resources from Prometric.
Getting to campus from NYC
The school is in Lynbrook on Long Island, not within the five boroughs. Students commuting from the city can take the LIRR to Lynbrook and walk about eight minutes to campus.
| Starting point | Typical route |
|---|---|
| Manhattan | Direct LIRR from Penn Station to Lynbrook; about 35 minutes on the train. |
| Queens | LIRR from Jamaica to Lynbrook; about 10 minutes on the train. |
Train times can change; check the current LIRR schedule before traveling. See our CNA and HHA training page for Queens and NYC for more commute information.
Frequently asked questions
How long does CNA training take?
Our CNA program takes about four weeks and includes 125 hours: 95 classroom hours and a 30-hour clinical externship.
How much does the program cost?
The all-inclusive price is $993, covering tuition, registration, and the Prometric exam fee. Scrubs and the textbook are sold separately. Payment plans are available.
Can I take the CNA program online?
No. All CNA classes are held in person at our Lynbrook campus.
Can I take the Prometric exam at the school?
Our school hosts the Prometric exam on site for students enrolled in our CNA program.
Does completing the program guarantee a job?
No. We provide placement assistance to graduates, but jobs are not guaranteed.
Ready to plan your CNA training?
Review current cohort dates and enrollment requirements, or talk with our team about whether the program fits your plans.