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You passed your CNA exam.

Here's exactly what to do in the next 7 days to start your career.

Register with your state nurse aide registry

Passing the exam isn't the last step — you need to appear in your state's official CNA registry before any facility can legally hire you. This usually happens automatically within 2–3 weeks of passing, but you should verify.

Check your state registry:

Texas →California →Florida →New York →

Don't see your state? Search “[your state] nurse aide registry lookup” — every state has one.

Find your first job

Disclosure:Some links below are affiliate links — if you sign up through them, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. We only recommend platforms we'd recommend regardless.

Per-diem staffing apps let you pick up shifts at nursing homes and hospitals without committing to one employer. This is the fastest way to start working as a new CNA — most can have you working within 1–2 weeks of applying.

ShiftKey

NurseDash

New CNA Friendly

Per-diem shifts at skilled nursing, assisted living, and home health. Easy onboarding for new grads.

Accepts new graduatesOnboarding supportWide range of shift types

Best for: First job — they actively work with newly licensed CNAs

Apply Free →

ESHYFT

High Pay

Premium per-diem platform. Fewer facilities but higher hourly rates. Good once you have 3–6 months of experience.

Higher average pay ratesQuality facilitiesTransparent rating system

Best for: Experienced CNAs looking to maximize hourly rate

Apply Free →

Pro tip:Apply to all three at the same time. There's no exclusivity — experienced CNAs typically work two or three platforms to maximize their hours and income.

What to have ready before your first shift

Most facilities require all of these before you can start:

CNA certification card or number (from your state registry)

Government-issued photo ID

Social Security card

TB test results (within the past 12 months)

Proof of COVID vaccination (most facilities require)

CPR/BLS certification (AHA or Red Cross)

Comfortable non-slip shoes →

At least 2 sets of scrubs →

Watch with a second hand (for taking pulses) →

CPR certification: Red Cross offers a 2-hour in-person course for ~$60. Most staffing platforms require it before your first shift.

Shop on Amazon

Nursing Scrubs

You need at least 2 sets before your first shift.

Amazon →

Nurse Watch

Second-hand required for taking radial pulse.

Amazon →

Compression Socks

Most CNAs swear by these after their first 12-hour shift.

Amazon →

Non-Slip Shoes

Required at most facilities. Comfort matters on long shifts.

Amazon →

Stethoscope

Not always required, but good to have for vitals practice.

Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

What to expect your first week

Orientation

Most facilities require a 4–8 hour facility orientation before your first working shift. This is paid time.

Shadowing

Your first 1–2 shifts you'll shadow an experienced CNA. Ask questions — everyone expects it and it's the fastest way to learn the facility's routines.

The assignment

CNAs typically care for 8–12 residents per shift in long-term care. Your first few shifts may be more — ask your charge nurse if you're unsure what's expected.

Documentation

Learn the facility's charting system on day one. Whether it's paper or electronic, ask someone to show you before you leave orientation.

Stay sharp on the job

New CNAs who keep reviewing their clinical knowledge perform better in their first 90 days. Our practice questions are still here whenever you want a refresher.

Back to Practice Tests →