CNA Classes & Jobs in Saint Paul, MN

Everything you need to start a CNA career in Saint Paul: local training programs, the M Health Fairview hiring pipeline, current wages, and a free study plan for the Minnesota NNAAP exam.

Saint Paul Minnesota skyline illustration
Saint Paul, Minnesota — MSA population ~3100K
Median CNA wage
$18.50/hr
~$38,480–$48,880/yr
Major employer
M Health Fairview
Largest healthcare system in the metro
Metro population
3,100,000
Greater Saint Paul metropolitan area

Working as a CNA in Saint Paul

Saint Paul is part of the Minnesota CNA registry, which means your training and certification follow the same NNAAP standards used across the U.S. The local healthcare market here is anchored by M Health Fairview, which consistently hires new graduates and offers competitive starting wages around $18.50/hour. After a year of experience and a strong track record, CNAs inSaint Paul commonly move into specialty roles (ICU support, rehab, memory care) at $3–$7 above the entry rate.

Minnesota CNA training requirements

To work as a CNA in Saint Paul, you'll need to complete a state-approved training program (typically 75–180 hours depending on Minnesota's requirements), pass the NNAAP written and clinical skills exams, and register with the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry. The full Minnesota CNA certification guide covers application steps, fees, testing locations, and renewal cycles.

What the NNAAP exam tests for Saint Paul CNAs

Every CNA in Minnesota takes the same National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP). It's a 70-question written exam plus a 5-skill clinical checkoff. The exam doesn't change by city, but how you study for it should match the skills local employers care about. M Health Fairview and other major systems inSaint Paul weight hand hygiene, transfers, vital signs, and feeding highest when hiring.

Pass the NNAAP on your first try

Try the free practice exam

ExamReady gives you the full 1,500+ question bank, all 22clinical skills walkthroughs, and a full exam simulator built around the same NNAAP you'll take in Minnesota. 7-day free trial, no card required to start.

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Other Minnesota cities

Full Minnesota guide

For state-level training requirements, application fees, exam vendor contacts, and renewal procedures, read the complete Minnesota CNA certification guide.

Read the Minnesota CNA guide →