How Much Does CNA Training Cost in California? (And How to Pay $0)
In 2026, California CNA program tuition ranges from $158 to $3,500. LMCC's tuition is $2,995 — and $0 for WIOA-eligible students under iTrain Provider ID 32255.
2026 California CNA Program Price Comparison
| Program type | Typical tuition | Length | WIOA-fundable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community college (e.g. Mt. SAC, Citrus) | $158–$611 fees | Semester (15–18 wks) | Varies by college and ETPL listing |
| Adult education (e.g. Hacienda La Puente) | $158–$1,335 | ~12 weeks | Sometimes |
| Private vocational school | $1,977–$3,500 | 4–8 weeks | Only if ETPL-listed |
| LMCC (Pomona) | $2,995 → $0 with WIOA | 31 days | Yes — iTrain ID 32255 |
Tuition data reflects publicly disclosed program fees as of 2026. LMCC's figure is the current BPPE-disclosed total tuition.
Why LMCC's $2,995 Looks Different With WIOA
For students who qualify for the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, LMCC's ETPL listing means the program effectively costs $0. WIOA covers the full tuition through an Individual Training Account issued by an AJCC case manager.
Speed Matters Too
Community college courses are inexpensive but typically take a full semester. LMCC's 31-day schedule means students can earn a CNA wage approximately 90–100 days sooner than a standard semester program.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does CNA training cost in California in 2026?
Tuition ranges roughly from $158 (community college, course fees only) to $3,500 (private vocational schools). LMCC's tuition is $2,995. Eligible WIOA participants pay $0 because LMCC is ETPL-listed under iTrain Provider ID 32255.
What is the cheapest CNA program in California?
Community-college CNA courses charge the lowest base tuition, often under $300 in fees plus textbooks. They typically take a full semester (15–18 weeks) and run during the day only. LMCC's program is 31 days and offers AM/PM tracks; with WIOA, the out-of-pocket cost drops to $0.
Does WIOA pay for CNA training?
Yes — when the program is on the state's Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). LMCC's iTrain Provider ID is 32255. Case managers at America's Job Center of California issue an Individual Training Account (ITA) that pays the full $2,995 directly to LMCC for qualifying participants.
What does the $2,995 LMCC tuition include?
Tuition covers classroom and clinical instruction, books, scrubs, the live-skills evaluation, and standard fees disclosed on the BPPE School Performance Fact Sheet. The state CNA exam fee is paid separately to the testing vendor.
Pay $2,995 — or $0 with WIOA
$0 with WIOA. 31-day program. Call (909) 625-8050 or check eligibility online.
See if You Qualify for $0