Key Points
- State-approved CNA training requires just 75 hours.
- Sioux Falls CNAs earn a median $18.84 per hour.
- South Dakota projects 7.8 percent growth for nursing assistants.
Become a CNA in Sioux Falls: Find Training, Programs & Certification Steps
Compare CNA programs in Sioux Falls: accreditation, costs, and steps to certification.
Sioux Falls employers posted over 2,900 nursing assistant positions in a recent year, and local demand isn't slowing as the city's healthcare sector continues its steady expansion. Major systems like Sanford Health and Avera dominate the local labor market, creating a steady pipeline of entry-level openings for newly certified CNAs.
The real question isn't whether jobs exist; it's which training path gets you there fastest and sets you up for advancement. Program formats, clinical requirements, and commute times all shape your timeline. Jump straight to the program list.
Why Start a CNA Career in Sioux Falls?
Healthcare is one of the most stable sectors in Sioux Falls, and demand for certified nursing assistants continues to grow as the region's population ages and its medical infrastructure expands.
A City Built Around Healthcare
Sioux Falls is home to two of the largest healthcare systems in the upper Midwest. Sanford Health employs roughly 50,000 people across its network3, and Avera Health employs around 19,0003. Together, they anchor a local job market where CNA positions are consistently available across hospitals, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies. Add employers like Good Samaritan Society, Avantara Norton, Touchmark at All Saints, and Interim HealthCare, and you have a city where CNAs have real choices about where and how they work.
Many Employers Will Help You Get Certified
One of the most practical reasons to pursue CNA classes in Sioux Falls is that local employers actively invest in getting people certified. Avera Health runs its own 75-hour employer-sponsored CNA training program, covers certification costs, and requires no prior experience to apply.1 Good Samaritan Society offers paid training for new hires.2 Avantara Norton2 and Touchmark at All Saints5 both provide tuition reimbursement. Even facilities a short drive from the city, like Riverview Healthcare in Flandreau, offer facility-provided training and certification within four months of hire.2
For career changers or recent high school graduates, this means you may be able to enter the field without paying out of pocket for a training program, or at least recoup the cost quickly after starting work.
Pay, Purpose, and a Fast Path In
Wages in Sioux Falls reflect the competition for qualified CNAs. Depending on the employer and shift, pay ranges from around $18 to $26 per hour. Interim HealthCare, for example, posts roles in the $23 to $26 range.4 Even entry-level positions at facilities like Avantara Norton start around $18 an hour.2
Beyond the paycheck, CNAs describe the role as genuinely rewarding. You build real relationships with patients and residents, provide hands-on support during vulnerable moments, and develop clinical skills that can carry you toward LPN, RN, or other advanced credentials later. CNA Training typically takes four to twelve weeks, making it one of the fastest routes into a stable, meaningful healthcare career available today.
South Dakota projects nursing assistant employment to grow by 7.8 percent over a recent ten-year span, according to South Dakota Occupational Projections data sourced through O*NET OnLine. That steady climb reflects strong, ongoing demand across the state, making Sioux Falls an especially promising place to launch a healthcare career right now.
Can You Take CNA Classes Online in South Dakota?
Fully online and hybrid CNA programs offer two very different paths to certification in South Dakota. Understanding this distinction is essential before you enroll. The South Dakota Board of Nursing does not approve fully online CNA training.1 Every approved program must include in-person clinical hours, which means you cannot earn your certification through a computer screen alone.
What the State Requires
South Dakota mandates a minimum of 75 total program hours, including at least 16 hours of hands-on clinical training.1 These clinical hours must take place at an approved healthcare facility where you practice real patient care under supervision. The state maintains an annual list of Approved Nurse Aide Training Programs,2 and only programs on this list qualify you to sit for the certification exam.
Hybrid Programs Available Near Sioux Falls
While fully online options are off the table, several providers offer hybrid programs that combine online theory with in-person skills labs and clinicals. This format gives you flexibility to study coursework on your own schedule while still meeting state requirements.
- Southeast Technical College: Offers a hybrid CNA program with 16 hours of clinicals completed at a long-term care facility in or near Sioux Falls. Online coursework covers foundational theory before you begin hands-on training.
- Sanford Health Nursing Assistant Program: Based right in Sioux Falls, this 82-hour hybrid program lets employees and community members complete theory online while attending in-person skills sessions and clinical rotations at Sanford facilities.
- Avera CNA Online Training Solutions: Headquartered in Yankton, Avera provides self-paced online theory that you can work through at your convenience. Clinical hours must still be completed in person at an approved Avera site.
- Monument Health Community CNA Program: This 75-hour hybrid program includes 16 clinical hours and costs approximately $1,380. While Monument Health is based in western South Dakota, it demonstrates the hybrid model common across the state.
Flexibility for Working Students
If you need evening or weekend options, check directly with Southeast Technical College and Sanford Health about their current cohort schedules. Healthcare employers in Sioux Falls often structure their training programs around shift work, recognizing that many students juggle jobs or family responsibilities. Hybrid formats also allow you to progress through online modules during off-hours, completing clinical requirements during scheduled blocks that fit your availability.
Before enrolling in any program, verify it appears on the South Dakota Board of Nursing's approved list.2 Programs not on this list will not qualify you for the state certification exam, regardless of how convenient their online component may be.
CNA Training Options Within Driving Distance of Sioux Falls
Are there CNA programs near Sioux Falls worth commuting to? If the in-city schedule does not fit your life, or you simply want more options, several programs within roughly 60 miles of Sioux Falls are worth a look. Mitchell, Yankton, and Brookings all have training opportunities, and a short drive can sometimes mean a better schedule, lower tuition, or a program format that clicks for you.
Mitchell: Facility-Based Training
Avera Brady Health and Rehabilitation in Mitchell offers an in-person CNA training program at 525 N Foster St, about 70 miles west of Sioux Falls along I-90. Because it is facility-based rather than college-based, the program is embedded inside a working care environment, which gives students hands-on exposure from day one. South Dakota requires at least 75 clinical hours to sit for the state certification exam, and facility programs like this one typically structure their schedule around meeting that requirement efficiently. Specific tuition and schedule details are best confirmed directly with the facility, as availability can shift with staffing needs.
Yankton: Hybrid Programs About 60 Miles South
Yankton hosts two Avera-affiliated training options, making it one of the more active regional hubs for CNA education outside Sioux Falls.
- Avera CNA Training Solutions: Located at 1000 W 4th St, this hybrid program combines online CNA classes with in-person clinical hours. Total cost runs around $9251, and the program spans approximately three months2. The hybrid format works well for students who need flexibility during the lecture portion but can commit to scheduled clinical days.
- Avera Sacred Heart Hospital CNA Program: Also in Yankton, this program uses a self-paced online format for the classroom portion paired with 16 hours of in-person clinical training. Tuition falls in the $900 to $1,000 range1, making it one of the more affordable options in the region.
Both Yankton programs are facility-affiliated, which often comes with built-in networking and, in some cases, a clearer path to landing your first CNA job within the Avera system after certification.
What to Keep in Mind Before You Commute
All programs in South Dakota must be approved by the South Dakota Board of Nursing, so any school on that list is preparing you for the same state certification exam regardless of where it is located. Before committing to a commuter program, factor in fuel costs and drive time against any savings on tuition. For some Sioux Falls residents, the trade-off makes sense, particularly when a nearby program offers a schedule that a city-based option does not. Checking current openings directly with each program is always the right first step, since seat availability in smaller cohorts can change quickly.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Do I need evening or weekend classes?
Many working students and parents need flexibility. Finding a program with part-time or evening schedules can mean the difference between starting now and delaying training.
Is job placement assistance important to me?
Some schools offer resume help and employer connections, while others leave the job search to you. If you want a direct path to employment, prioritize programs with strong career services.
What length of program fits my timeline?
CNA programs in Sioux Falls can range from a few weeks of intensive study to a few months of part-time learning. Consider how soon you need to start earning and any other commitments you juggle.
CNA Salary and Job Outlook in the Sioux Falls Metro
Nursing assistants in the Sioux Falls metro area earn a median hourly wage of $18.84, which translates to about $39,190 per year, competitive with other healthcare support roles in the region. With over 2,900 employed locally and a projected 11.4% increase in jobs from 2022 to 2032, demand for CNAs remains strong. Many professionals use the CNA credential as a stepping stone to LPN or RN bridge programs, and as the pay range shows, experience and further training can push earnings above $22 per hour.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Hourly Wage | $18.84 per hour |
| Median Annual Wage | $39,190 per year |
| 10th Percentile Hourly Wage | $14.96 per hour |
| 25th Percentile Hourly Wage | $17.48 per hour |
| 75th Percentile Hourly Wage | $21.02 per hour |
| 90th Percentile Hourly Wage | $22.04 per hour |
| Total Employment (2026) | 2,930 nursing assistants |
| Projected Job Growth (2022-2032) | 11.4% |
| Average Annual Openings (2022-2032) | 383 |
South Dakota CNA Certification Requirements
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant in South Dakota, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass a competency exam, and get listed on the state’s Nurse Aide Registry. These rules ensure every CNA has the skills and knowledge to provide safe, compassionate care. Here’s exactly what you need to know, from training hours to renewal.
Required Training Hours
South Dakota mandates at least 75 hours of total training in a state-approved program.1 That includes a minimum of 16 hours of hands-on clinical experience in a healthcare setting, where you practice skills like bathing, transferring, and feeding patients under supervision.1 The remaining 59 hours cover classroom instruction and lab practice, diving into infection control, resident rights, communication, and basic nursing procedures. Some programs may offer more hours, but this is the floor. If you’re currently enrolled in a nursing program, you may be eligible for a training waiver: completing certain nursing coursework can substitute for the formal CNA training requirement.4
The Competency Exam
After training, you’ll need to pass the state CNA competency evaluation. South Dakota uses D&S Diversified Technologies (Headmaster LLP) to administer the exam.3 It has two parts: a written (or oral) knowledge test and a hands-on skills demonstration. You’ll need to score at least 75% on the knowledge portion2 and perform the assigned skills correctly before a nurse evaluator. If you don’t pass on the first try, you have up to three attempts to get it right.2 The oral option is available if you have difficulty with written English, but you must request it ahead of time.
Getting on the Nurse Aide Registry
Once you pass both exam sections, your name is placed on the South Dakota Nurse Aide Registry, maintained by the South Dakota Board of Nursing.3 Being on the registry is your official proof that you’re certified to work as a CNA in the state. Employers will check the registry before hiring you, and your listing must remain active and in good standing to keep working. There’s no separate application fee beyond the exam cost; the testing process automatically triggers your registry listing.3
Renewal and Keeping Your Certification Active
Your CNA certification in South Dakota is valid for two years.1 To renew, you need to meet two work-related requirements: you must have performed at least 12 hours of paid nursing or nursing-related services during the renewal period,2 and you must complete 12 hours of in-service education (or continuing education) every year.2 There’s no renewal fee; it's free.3 If you let your certification lapse, you may need to retake the competency exam, so keep track of your expiration date and submit any necessary documentation to the registry on time.
For CNAs Trained Out-of-State
If you’re already certified in another state and moving to South Dakota, you can apply for endorsement (reciprocity).3 The key requirement: you must have completed a training program of at least 75 hours, similar to South Dakota’s standard.3 You’ll need to provide verification of your active, good-standing certification from your current state’s registry. Sometimes, if your out-of-state training doesn’t exactly match or your certification has lapsed, you might need to take additional training or re-take the exam. A background check is typically part of the endorsement process as well, including fingerprinting if you’ve lived outside of South Dakota recently.4
Background Checks
All CNA applicants must pass a criminal background check.4 This is done through the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and, in many cases, the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The check looks for any disqualifying offenses, particularly those related to abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of vulnerable adults. If you have a record, it doesn’t automatically bar you; the Board of Nursing reviews each case individually. You’ll usually submit to the background check as part of your training program or when you apply for the competency exam.
South Dakota requires just 75 hours of state-approved training for CNA certification, one of the shortest minimums in the country. That means you can move from your first day of class to a paid role in a Sioux Falls hospital, clinic, or long-term care facility in a matter of weeks, not months.
Top Accredited CNA Programs in Sioux Falls
Nursing assistant programs in Sioux Falls are expanding and adapting to meet a growing need for skilled caregivers. The key to a strong start lies in choosing a state-approved program with a proven track record.
Where to Look for Accredited CNA Training
The most reliable starting point is the South Dakota Board of Nursing website, which maintains a current list of all approved nursing assistant training programs in the state. This is the only official source that confirms whether a program meets the requirements for certification eligibility. Many students begin their search with familiar names like Southeast Technical College in Sioux Falls or Lake Area Technical College in Watertown, each of which typically offers nursing assistant training. Checking these institutions’ official websites provides the latest details on class schedules, costs, and application deadlines. Additional programs may be offered by local healthcare facilities, workforce development centers, or private training providers, but always verify their status with the Board of Nursing before enrolling.
What Sets a Quality Program Apart
Beyond basic approval, a few factors distinguish a top-tier CNA program.
- Curriculum alignment: The course should specifically prepare you for the South Dakota nurse aide competency exam, covering both written and skills demonstration portions.
- Hands-on clinical hours: Look for a program that includes supervised clinical experience in a real care setting, not just classroom simulation.
- Flexible scheduling: Many students balance work or family, so evening, weekend, or hybrid class options can be a deciding factor.
- Transparent costs: The best programs clearly state tuition, fees, textbooks, and any additional charges like background checks or exam registration.
Reputation matters too. Talk to current or former students, read online reviews, and ask local employers which programs they trust.
How to Evaluate Exam Pass Rates
A program’s pass rate on the nurse aide competency exam is one of the clearest indicators of quality. Some states publish this data; the South Dakota Board of Nursing or the South Dakota Health Care Association may have aggregate reports available upon request. If you cannot find rates online, ask the program directly. A consistently high pass rate suggests that graduates leave fully prepared. If a program is hesitant to share its numbers, consider that a red flag.
Additionally, the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) administers the exam in many states, and regional testing sites sometimes track pass rates by school. Contacting a local test center can provide another layer of insight.
Questions to Ask Programs Before Enrolling
When you contact a program, go beyond the brochure and ask these pointed questions.
- What is the total cost, including textbooks, supplies, uniform, background check, and exam fees?
- How many hours of hands-on clinical experience are included, and where are those clinicals held?
- What is the typical class size and instructor-to-student ratio?
- What kind of job placement or career support do you offer after certification?
- Can you provide a copy of your most recent exam pass rate data?
Taking the time to research and compare programs will help you find a training environment that prepares you for a successful career, not just a certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions About CNA Classes in Sioux Falls
Here are clear answers to the most common questions about CNA training, certification, and career steps in Sioux Falls. Each response is grounded in current state and local requirements to help you plan your next move.
Most cna programs in Sioux Falls last 3 to 8 weeks,2 including 75 total training hours and at least 16 hours of hands-on clinical practice.1 Hybrid formats can compress this timeline by letting you complete theory online at your own pace before attending in-person labs.
You must be at least 16 years old, pass a criminal background check,3 and complete a state-approved 75-hour training program with 16 clinical hours.1 After that, you'll sit for the South Dakota Nurse Aide Competency Exam to become a CNA.1
Yes. Sanford Health offers a tuition-free Nursing Assistant Training Program that combines online learning, lab sessions, and clinical experience.4 Because the training is hospital-sponsored, students often receive a job offer upon completion, making it a cost-effective path into the field.
Fully online CNA training is not permitted in South Dakota due to mandatory in-person clinical hours. However, many Sioux Falls programs use a hybrid model: theoretical coursework is completed online, while lab skills and clinical rotations are done on campus or at a healthcare facility.
Many programs offer career support. Sanford Health's training is designed with built-in job placement, often hiring graduates directly.4 Even programs without guaranteed placement typically provide resume workshops, interview coaching, and access to employer networks to help you start your CNA career quickly.
Yes, through reciprocity. If you hold an active, unencumbered CNA certificate from another state, you can apply for transfer to South Dakota. You'll need to submit your current certification, pass a background check, and possibly complete a brief orientation on South Dakota regulations.
Renewal happens every two years. To remain active, you must provide proof of at least eight hours of paid CNA work during that period. If your employment lapsed, a refresher course and re-examination may be necessary. Check with the South Dakota Board of Nursing for current forms and deadlines.