How to Get Your LNA Certification in New Hampshire (NH): 2026 Guide
New Hampshire uses Excel Testing and calls the credential LNA. Training is 100 hours and fees are around $200. Fingerprint background checks required.
In New Hampshire, the credential is called a Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA), not CNA. Candidates complete a 100-hour state-approved program, pass the Excel Testing LNA exam, and get licensed by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing. New Hampshire also requires both state and federal fingerprint background checks before licensing.
New Hampshire LNA at a glance
- Testing vendor: Excel Testing
- Training hours: 100 total (60 clinical minimum)
- Exam format: knowledge test + skills evaluation
- Exam fee: approximately $200 combined
- Registry: New Hampshire Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 24 months
Who oversees LNA certification in New Hampshire
The New Hampshire Board of Nursing approves training programs, licenses LNAs, and maintains the registry. Excel Testing administers the competency exam under state-approved vendor status.
Training programs in New Hampshire
New Hampshire requires a 100-hour state-approved program, of which at least 60 hours must be supervised clinical practice. Programs are offered at:
- Community colleges (Nashua Community College, Manchester Community College, River Valley Community College, Lakes Region Community College, White Mountains Community College)
- Private training academies
- Long-term care facilities with in-house programs
Most programs run 6–10 weeks. Tuition typically ranges from $900 to $1,800, plus $100–$200 for uniforms, textbooks, BLS certification, the New Hampshire state criminal background check, and the FBI Identity History Summary check.
The New Hampshire LNA exam: Excel Testing details
The Excel Testing LNA exam has two parts:
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Knowledge Test — multiple-choice questions covering New Hampshire nursing assistant standards and general nurse aide duties.
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Skills Test — hands-on demonstration of randomly selected skills in front of an Excel Testing nurse evaluator.
Excel Testing uses a different scoring system than the national NNAAP, so candidates who trained in other states may need additional preparation before scheduling.
How much does the New Hampshire LNA exam cost?
- Both parts combined — ~$200
- Knowledge retake — ~$80
- Skills retake — ~$120
- NH state background check — $25–$50
- FBI federal background check — $18
- NH Board of Nursing licensing fee — included
New Hampshire's exam fee is among the highest in the country. Some training programs include it in tuition; ask before enrolling.
Where to take the test in New Hampshire
- Manchester — frequent testing; multiple Excel Testing sites
- Nashua — regular sessions; Nashua CC-area dates
- Concord — periodic testing; state capital area
- Portsmouth — scheduled through partner programs; limited dates
- Keene — limited dates; book early
- Littleton — limited dates; book early in northern NH
New Hampshire's testing footprint is concentrated in the southern tier. Northern Coos County and Carroll County candidates may travel 60–90 minutes to the nearest active site.
Scheduling and what to bring on test day
Bring government-issued photo ID, your Excel Testing test confirmation, and clinical scrubs. The skills portion may be scheduled on a separate day. Arrive early to allow time for check-in and ID verification.
New Hampshire requires fingerprint-based state AND federal background checks before clinical training. Plan for an FBI Identity History Summary check in addition to the state check.
After you pass: New Hampshire certification and renewal
Excel Testing reports passing scores to the New Hampshire Board of Nursing, which issues your LNA license within 7–14 days. Your name appears on the Board of Nursing's public lookup. Certification is valid for 24 months. To renew, complete at least 8 hours of paid nurse aide work during the certification period under the supervision of an RN.
Common pitfalls specific to New Hampshire
- LNA title: Use "LNA," not "CNA," on applications and resumes in New Hampshire.
- High exam fee: Among the highest in the country; budget for it.
- Fingerprinting: Required before licensing; factor in the time to complete and process.
- Vendor system: Excel Testing uses a different system than NNAAP/Prometric/Headmaster; don't confuse it with neighboring states' vendors.
FAQ
How long does it take to become an LNA in New Hampshire? Most students finish training in 6–10 weeks and add 2–4 weeks for exam scheduling and licensing.
Can I transfer an out-of-state CNA license to New Hampshire? Yes, but New Hampshire requires all LNAs to take the Excel Testing exam. Reciprocity is conditional on passing both parts.
How much is LNA training in New Hampshire? Plan $900–$1,800 for tuition plus $200–$300 for supplies, the state and federal background checks, and the exam fee.
Does New Hampshire offer reciprocity with Massachusetts or Vermont? The New Hampshire Board of Nursing reviews reciprocity applications case-by-case. Many candidates from neighboring states still need to take the Excel Testing exam.
Practice for the New Hampshire LNA exam at /exam and review skills at /skills.
