How to Become a Travel CNA: Pay, Requirements & What to Expect
Travel CNAs earn $800–$1,800 per week in 2026, with higher rates in high-demand states and crisis assignments. You need an active CNA certification, at least 6–12 months of experience, and a staffing agency. Unlike RNs, CNAs do not have a compact license — you need individual state certification in each state where you work.
Last updated 2026-02-17
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What Does a Travel CNA Do?
Travel CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) work temporary assignments at hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities across the country. Assignments are typically 8–13 weeks. You'll provide direct patient care: bathing, feeding, mobility assistance, vital signs, and charting. Travel CNAs are expected to adapt quickly with minimal orientation.
CatSol staffs all healthcare professions — RN, CNA, LPN, PT, OT, SLP, and more. Every listing shows transparent pay and recruiter contact.
Search all healthcare jobs →Travel CNA Pay Rates (2026)
CNA pay varies significantly by state, facility type, and demand level.
| Assignment Type | Weekly Pay Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Travel CNA | $800 – $1,200 | Typical 13-week assignments |
| High-Demand / Urban | $1,200 – $1,500 | Major metros, short-staffed facilities |
| Crisis / Rapid Response | $1,500 – $1,800+ | Emergency staffing, natural disasters |
| Correctional CNA | $900 – $1,400 | Jails, prisons — steady demand |
| Long-Term Care / SNF | $800 – $1,100 | Nursing homes, rehab centers |
Requirements to Travel as a CNA
You'll need: active CNA certification in good standing, 6–12 months of hands-on experience (some agencies accept 6 months, most prefer 12+), BLS certification, clean background check, current immunizations and TB test, and physical exam clearance. Many agencies also require a skills checklist specific to CNA duties.
CatSol staffs all healthcare professions — RN, CNA, LPN, PT, OT, SLP, and more. Every listing shows transparent pay and recruiter contact.
Search all healthcare jobs →Search Travel CNA Jobs Nationwide
CatSol lists CNA positions in SNFs, corrections, hospitals, and more — with transparent pay.
CNA Licensing: No Compact License
Unlike RNs who can use the Nurse Licensure Compact, CNAs do not have a multi-state compact. You need separate CNA certification in each state where you work. The good news: many states offer endorsement or reciprocity, meaning your existing certification transfers without retaking the exam. Processing takes 2–6 weeks and costs $25–$100 per state. Your staffing agency typically helps with this paperwork.
How to Land Your First Travel CNA Assignment
Start by signing up with 2–3 agencies that specialize in CNA placements (not all agencies do). Get your compliance documents together: certification, BLS, immunizations, background check. Be flexible on location for your first assignment — it gives you more options and helps build your travel resume. Consider assignments within driving distance for an easier first experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can CNAs really make good money traveling?
Are there travel CNA jobs in hospitals?
Do I need experience in a specific setting?
Travel CNAs earn $800–$1,800/week depending on location and demand. You need a CNA certification, 6–12 months of experience, and BLS. Unlike RNs, there is no compact license for CNAs — you need individual state certifications. Start with 2–3 agencies and be flexible on location for your first assignment.
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