When you're ready for a new career, time matters. Maybe you're balancing a job, kids, or another degree. Maybe you just want to get certified fast and start working. The good news? Becoming a CNA in Orlando can take as little as 3 weeks — or as long as 6 weeks, depending on the path you choose.
At Gabriel Health Institute, we offer two state-approved training pathways that fit your schedule and your goals:
A Fast-Track CNA Exam Prep Program
A Comprehensive 120-Hour CNA Course
In this guide, we’ll break down how long each program takes, what to expect during each week, and how long it takes from start to certification. Whether you want speed or depth, this timeline will help you plan your journey with clarity.
The Two CNA Training Options in Orlando
Fast-Track CNA Exam Prep Timeline
Full 120-Hour CNA Training Timeline
What Happens After Training: Testing & Certification
How Long to Get Your CNA License in Florida
Can You Start Working Before You’re Certified?
What’s the Fastest Path to Becoming a CNA?
What If You Have No Experience in Healthcare?
Which Timeline Is Right for You?
Start Your Timeline Today at GHI
At GHI, we offer both:
| Path | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Fast-Track CNA Exam Prep | 2.5–4 weeks | Self-motivated, experienced learners |
| 120-Hour CNA Course | 4–6 weeks | Beginners, career-changers, students |
Both paths prepare you for the Florida CNA State Exam, and both are taught at GHI—an approved regional testing site, so you can test where you train.
This program is all about speed and focus. You’ll master the 22 essential CNA skills required by the state exam through hands-on labs, practice sessions, and test prep strategy.
Week 1:
Orientation & CPR certification (optional)
Intro to state exam & 6–8 core skills
Practice: Handwashing, PPE, indirect care
Week 2:
8–10 more hands-on skills
Written exam test prep
Skills like ambulation, feeding, catheter care
Week 3:
Mock exams & performance coaching
Confidence building under test-like conditions
Week 4 (optional):
Final reviews or rebooking of test dates
➡️ You’re ready to test as soon as you pass your GHI mock exam.
This program is state-approved and includes classroom instruction, lab time, and a clinical externship. It prepares you not just to pass—but to thrive on the job.
Week 1:
Intro to CNA role, HIPAA, infection control
CPR certification
Beginning of textbook study & quizzes
Week 2:
Hands-on lab skills begin
Skills: Hygiene, vital signs, body mechanics
Professional communication
Week 3:
Midterm review
Advanced skills: catheter care, transfers, feeding
Clinical scenarios, patient rights
Week 4:
Clinical externship in local nursing facility
Real-world application of your skills
Written assignments + lab validations
Week 5 (optional):
Extra clinical hours, test coaching, practice
Week 6:
Final lab checkoffs + mock state exam
Graduation & exam registration
🕐 Most students complete this program in 5–6 weeks total, depending on attendance and schedule.
Once you complete your training (either program), your next steps are:
Register for the Florida CNA State Exam (Prometric)
Test at GHI, which is a Regional Exam Site in Orlando
Pass the Written & Skills Exam
Get listed on the Florida Nurse Aide Registry
Testing Wait Times in 2025:
Average wait: 2–3 weeks after registration
GHI students often test faster because we host the exam onsite
Here’s a realistic timeline from Day 1 to CNA license in hand:
| Program | Training Time | Test Registration | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fast-Track | 3 weeks | 2–3 weeks | 5–6 weeks total |
| 120-Hour | 5 weeks | 2–3 weeks | 7–8 weeks total |
💡 Some GHI students have completed training and passed their exam in just 30 days. It depends on your availability, test slots, and readiness.
Yes—Florida allows you to work as a CNA under supervision if you’ve completed training and are waiting to take your exam, especially in long-term care or home health settings.
Employers will require:
Proof of course completion
Scheduled test date
CPR certification
GHI provides you with all the necessary documentation to help you land a job even before you’re officially licensed.
Here’s what you need for the fastest possible timeline:
Enroll in GHI’s Fast-Track CNA Exam Prep
Attend all sessions (flexible schedules available)
Practice daily at home or at our skills lab
Test at GHI (no travel delays)
Get results in 1–2 weeks
Apply to CNA jobs immediately
⏱️ Fastest GHI student to date completed training, passed the test, and got hired in 28 days.
If you’ve never worked in a hospital, nursing home, or clinic, we recommend the 120-Hour Course.
Why?
It builds your foundation: legal, ethical, emotional
It includes clinical experience that employers respect
It makes you a better communicator and care advocate
Our admissions officers will guide you based on your background, learning style, and goals.
| Question | If Yes, Choose: |
|---|---|
| Are you in a hurry to get certified and start working? | Fast-Track Exam Prep |
| Are you new to healthcare and want full preparation? | 120-Hour Course |
| Are you comfortable learning under pressure? | Fast-Track |
| Do you want clinical hours and externship experience? | 120-Hour |
| Do you want a competitive advantage for top jobs? | 120-Hour |
No matter which path you choose, GHI gives you:
Skills Lab access
Dedicated instructors
Flexible schedules (day, night, weekend)
Resume support + employer connections
If you're asking, "How long does CNA training take in Orlando?" — the answer is, not long at all when you're learning with the right partner.
At Gabriel Health Institute, we make the journey as fast or as thorough as you need. Whether you need flexibility or full immersion, your timeline starts now—with us by your side.
📍 GHI is proud to be:
A State Approved CNA School
A Regional Exam Site for the Florida CNA State Exam
This means we train you and test you—in the same building, on your schedule.
📞 Ready to start your CNA journey?
Speak with an admissions officer today and find the timeline that fits your life and goals.
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