Looking for a CNA School Near You? Here’s What You Really Need to Know
When most people search for “CNA school near me,” they’re really looking for CNA training that helps them build essential caregiving skills and prepare to pass the Florida CNA exam — not necessarily a traditional college or state-run program.
At Medical Plus Training Center, we specialize in helping students across Florida gain the hands-on training and confidence needed to successfully pass the CNA exam and begin a rewarding healthcare career.
What Most People Mean When They Search “CNA School Near Me”
If you’re looking for a “CNA school,” you’re not alone. Thousands of Floridians search for that term every month.
Here’s the truth: Florida doesn’t require you to attend a school or college to become a Certified Nursing Assistant.
Instead, you need to:
Be at least 18 years old
Have a high school diploma or GED
Pass a Level 2 background check
Complete the Florida Nurse Aide Competency Exam, administered by Prometric
At Medical Plus Training Center, our CNA exam prep program is designed to help you gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pass that exam even if you’ve never worked in healthcare before.
Do You Have to Take a CNA Class in Florida?
Technically, no. Florida allows candidates to take the CNA exam without taking a course, but most people who skip training don’t pass on their first try.
Here are your two options:
Option 1: Challenge the exam by taking an exam prep
Enroll in a CNA exam prep course that focuses on the skills and knowledge tested by Prometric.
Learn and practice key CNA tasks such as measuring vital signs, assisting with mobility, and providing basic patient care.
After completing your prep, register directly with Prometric to take the Florida CNA exam.
Complete a Level 2 background check and pay the required testing fees.
Pass both the written and skills portions to be listed on the Florida Nurse Aide Registry.
Exam prep courses are ideal for students who want a shorter, focused way to prepare for the CNA exam and begin working sooner.
Option 2: Take the 120-hour CNA school.
Another route is to enroll in a state-approved CNA training program, which typically includes about 120 hours of instruction and clinical practice.
Students in CNA schools:
Work through extended classroom sessions led by licensed instructors
Complete clinical rotations in healthcare settings
Learn both the skills tested by Prometric and additional topics related to patient care
This option offers a traditional, structured approach that some students prefer before taking the CNA exam.
CNA School vs. CNA Exam Prep: What’s the Difference?
It’s a fair question, and the difference is important.
CNA School
A CNA school is typically a state-approved training program that provides classroom instruction and supervised clinical hours. These programs often follow an academic schedule and may take several weeks to complete.
CNA Exam Prep
A CNA exam prep course, like the one offered at Medical Plus Training Center, is a shorter, skill-focused program that helps students review key material, practice essential caregiving techniques, and prepare to pass the Florida CNA exam through targeted instruction and hands-on labs.
At Medical Plus Training Center, we focus on exam readiness rather than academic theory. You’ll leave with the skills and confidence needed to perform well on test day and start your healthcare career faster.
Clarifying the Difference:
A CNA school offers a comprehensive, state-approved training program that includes classroom instruction and supervised clinical hours. Completing one often allows students to skip the hands-on skills portion of the Florida CNA exam and take only the written test.
In contrast, a CNA exam prep program — like the one offered at Medical Plus Training Center — is open to anyone who meets Florida’s basic eligibility requirements to take the CNA exam. It’s ideal for students with no prior CNA experience who want to learn the required skills, practice them with guidance, and build the confidence to pass both the written and skills portions of the exam.
Why Many Students Choose Exam Prep Instead of CNA School
For many people, exam prep is the smarter route. It’s faster, more affordable, and focused entirely on what you need to pass the Florida CNA exam.
Florida allows candidates to challenge the exam without enrolling in a long, state-approved program — so if you meet the basic eligibility requirements and want to start working sooner, a CNA exam prep course can help you earn certification in weeks instead of months.
How to Choose the Right CNA Program Near You
When comparing CNA programs in Florida, look for those that offer:
✅ Experienced instructors with real healthcare backgrounds
🩺 Hands-on training using real equipment
🕒 Flexible scheduling for working adults
💬 A supportive, exam-focused learning environment
At Medical Plus Training Center, our instructors bring real-world caregiving experience into the classroom, giving you practical insight and confidence that lasts long after exam day.
Why Many Students Prefer Exam Prep Centers Over Large CNA Schools
Smaller class sizes and one-on-one guidance make a world of difference.
While big schools can feel impersonal, Medical Plus Training Center offers a supportive environment that helps you stay motivated and confident.
Students often tell us they appreciate:
Individual attention from instructors
Affordable tuition with no unnecessary fees
Fast, focused programs that help them start working quickly
Flexible schedules designed for busy adults
You’ll leave fully prepared to pass your CNA exam and ready to begin your healthcare career with confidence.
Start Your CNA Journey Today
Whether you searched for “CNA school near me” or “CNA training in Fort Pierce,” your goal is clear: to start a meaningful, rewarding career helping others.
At Medical Plus Training Center, our CNA exam prep program gives you the knowledge, practice, and support you need to succeed.
👉 Learn more about our CNA Training Program
or, if you’re ready to take the next step:
🗓️ Sign up for our Free CNA Workshop by clicking the button below.
Written by Chevaugn Maitland
Certified CNA Instructor at Medical Plus Training Center - helping students across the Treasure Coast start rewarding healthcare careers.