Need CNA Training Fast in Washington DC? These 4-Week Programs Deliver.
Finding a certified nursing assistant (CNA) program in Washington DC that can be completed in just four weeks isn’t easy—especially if you’re juggling work or family responsibilities. Many programs stretch out over months, making it tough for those who need to train quickly and start earning.
But two standout schools in DC do offer accelerated CNA training you can complete in just four weeks—without sacrificing quality.
1. Nursing Assistant Academy
The CNA program at Nursing Assistant Academy in Washington, DC can be completed in just 4 weeks. It includes 123 total hours—78 hours of classroom and lab instruction and 45 hours of clinical training. Classes are offered during the day or evening, with flexible scheduling that allows students to meet the requirements in less than a month.
Day classes run from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., while evening classes are held from 3:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Clinical training takes place during the final two weeks of the program. Small class sizes provide more one-on-one attention, and new sessions begin each month.
The program is approved by the DC Board of Nursing and the DC Higher Education Licensure Commission. The school is located near the Potomac Avenue Metro Station. Admission includes an entrance exam, interview, and a $65 registration fee. Applicants must be at least 18 and provide valid ID and recent medical clearance.
| Category | Details |
| Duration | 4 weeks (123 total hours: 78 classroom/lab hours + 45 clinical hours) |
| Format | In-person with classroom/lab and clinical components |
| Schedules | Day: Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m.; Evening: Mon–Fri, 3:00 p.m.–9:30 p.m. |
| Address | 1418 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Washington, DC 20003 |
| Phone | 202-748-5479 |
2. Accessibility Excellence Academy
This CNA program lasts 4 weeks and includes 125 total hours: 65 hours of classroom instruction, 36 hours of lab work, 5 hours of customer service/job orientation, and 40 hours of clinicals. Students receive a copy of the board-approved curriculum upon enrollment.
Class options include day, evening, and weekend schedules. Weekday classes typically run Monday through Friday, while weekend classes are held Saturday and Sunday. The training is held in person at AEA’s location in Northeast DC, near public transit, with ample parking and modern lab facilities.
Admission requires students to be at least 18 years old, complete the CASAS test, and submit ID, proof of residency, and health documentation. Students are also trained in professional communication, infection control, safety, and ethics.
AEA offers guaranteed job placement upon graduation through partnerships with local employers and reports pass rates of over 90% for the skills exam and 80% for the knowledge test.
| Category | Details |
| Duration | 4 weeks (125 total hours) |
| Format | In-person (classroom, lab, clinicals, and job orientation) |
| Schedules | Day, Evening, and Weekend options available |
| Address | 1818 New York Ave. NE Suite 232, Washington, DC 20002 |
| Phone | (202) 735-0989 |
🔍 Easily Compare CNA Programs
We’ve handpicked top CNA programs in Washington DC and the surrounding DMV area—including accelerated, part-time, and even online options—to help you find the right fit, faster.
💡 What We’d Do in Your Shoes
Choosing between CNA programs in the Washington DC metro area isn’t easy—but if we were in your shoes, here’s how we’d break it down.
🏁 If Speed Is Your Priority
Nursing Assistant Academy (NAA) stands out for its fast 4-week format with back-to-back weekday classes and well-structured clinical hours. If you’re trying to get certified quickly and have a flexible weekday schedule, this program moves efficiently and gets you exam-ready fast. It also starts new classes every month—huge plus for not having to wait around.
Tip: Ask about how often the classes fill up—if you need to start ASAP, you’ll want to make sure there’s still room.
💸 If Cost & Job Security Matter Most
Accessibility Excellence Academy (AEA) wins points for being a nonprofit program with a strong mission and guaranteed job placement. That’s rare. Plus, they even mention a potential to work full-time while in training through a partner facility—great for those who need income now. Their modern facilities, strong test pass rates, and dedicated customer service training also suggest real value.
But: AEA may not be the absolute cheapest, so confirm the full tuition breakdown when you contact them.
🕐 If You Need Weekend or Evening Flexibility
AEA is the more flexible of the two. It offers weekend, day, and evening options—making it the stronger choice if you’re working a day job or juggling family responsibilities.
What to Ask:
- Can I switch between schedules if something changes mid-program?
- Are weekend cohorts slower-paced or more intensive?
🎯 Where You Might Learn the Most
Both programs meet DC licensure standards, but AEA‘s curriculum seems broader in soft-skill development (like communication and client dignity), which is often what separates a good CNA from a great one. Meanwhile, NAA offers smaller class sizes—great for one-on-one attention.
So, think about your learning style:
Prefer direct mentorship and hands-on practice? → NAA
Value structured learning with added services like job coaching? → AEA
🙋♀️ Why You Should Call Both
Don’t skip this: Talking directly to program reps can uncover hidden gems—like:
- Do they help with state exam prep?
- What’s their real-world job placement track record, not just the promise?
- Can they help with scholarships or payment plans?
Programs that give you clear, confident answers—and treat you with respect—are often the best ones to stick with.
✅ Our Bottom Line
- Need fast results and structure? Start with Nursing Assistant Academy.
- Need flexibility, job placement, or weekend classes? Look closely at Accessibility Excellence Academy.
If either one fits your situation, reach out, ask smart questions, and trust your instincts. This choice could launch your healthcare career—so take the extra 10 minutes and make sure it’s the right fit.