Healthcare

How to become a Certified Medication Aide

From CNA: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there

2–4 months

Typical pay

$36k–$46k

Starting from

CNA

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from CNA and includes any licence or programme legally required — not just course length.

The route

1. 1

   6–12 months

   Work as a CNA first

   Nearly every state requires current CNA certification plus months of floor experience.

   Course that covers thisNEW Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Exam Preparation 2026Udemy · around $19.99 →
2. 2

   1–3 months

   Complete a state-approved medication aide course

   40–140 hours depending on the state: classroom plus supervised passes.

3. 3

   Pass the state medication aide exam

   Written, plus a skills check on administering and documenting a pass.

   ◆ State medication aide certification

4. 4

   1–2 years

   Take a med-pass assignment

   It is a pay step, and it is the usual bridge into LPN school.

5. ✓

   Destination

   Certified Medication Aide

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