Maine CNA License — How to Get, Transfer, Renew & Verify (2025 Updated)

To obtain your Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license in Maine, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass the competency exam, and be listed on the Maine CNA and Direct Care Worker (DCW) Registry. If certified in another state, you may apply through reciprocity. To remain active, CNAs must renew certification every two years and meet work requirements. This guide explains how to earn your license, verify your status, renew or reinstate your certification, and transfer your credential from another state—based on current standards from the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Division of Licensing and Certification (DLC).

How to Get Your CNA License in Maine

The Maine DHHS, Division of Licensing and Certification (DLC) oversees CNA certification. To qualify, you must complete training, pass the competency exam, and apply for placement on the CNA and DCW Registry.

Step 1: Complete a State-Approved Training Program

You must complete a DLC-approved CNA training program. Maine requires at least 130 hours of instruction, including classroom study, skills laboratory practice, and supervised clinical experience. A criminal background check is required at enrollment.

Step 2: Pass the Maine CNA Competency Test

After training, you must pass Maine’s CNA competency test, which includes:

• Knowledge Exam: Written or oral multiple-choice questions
• Skills Evaluation: Demonstration of nurse aide tasks, including mandatory hand hygiene

You must pass both parts to qualify for placement. Candidates may attempt each part up to three times within two years of completing training.

Step 3: Apply for Placement on the CNA and DCW Registry

Once you pass the exam, apply for placement on the Maine CNA and DCW Registry. You may apply:

• Online: Through the Maine CNA Licensing Portal
• By Mail, Email, or Fax: Using the CNA Registry Application (PDF)

Required Documents

• CNA Certificate of Training
• Government-issued photo ID with signature (driver’s license or passport; student IDs not accepted)
• Criminal background check from the time of training, showing all legal names used

Submission Methods

• Email: dlrs.cnaregistry@maine.gov
• Fax: (207) 287-9325
• Mail:
  Maine DHHS – Division of Licensing and Certification
  Attn: CNA Registry
  11 State House Station
  Augusta, ME 04330-0011

Processing Time

Allow up to 30 days for review. Incomplete or unclear submissions may delay processing. A confirmation letter will be mailed once approved. You may also verify your status using the CNA and DCW Registry Lookup Tool.

Need help? Call the Registry at (207) 624-7300 or email dlrs.cnaregistry@maine.gov.

How to Verify Your CNA License in Maine

The Maine DHHS, Division of Licensing and Certification (DLC) manages the CNA and DCW Registry. The online portal allows CNAs, employers, and the public to confirm certification status, check expiration dates, and review annotations or disciplinary actions.

Step 1: Access the Search Portal

Visit the Maine Regulatory Licensing & Permitting Search.

Step 2: Select Regulator

• From the Regulator dropdown, select CNA AND DIRECT CARE REGISTRY.

Step 3: Enter Search Information

• Certificate Number: Enter your CNA certificate number for the most accurate match.
• Name: Enter first and last name. Broad searches may return multiple records.

Step 4: Submit Search

Click Search to display results.

Step 5: Review Results

The results table shows:

• Full name
• Certificate number
• Location (if available)
• Profession
• Status: must be Active to work as a CNA in Maine

Step 6: View Detailed Record

Select a name to open the detailed record. This page provides:

• Certificate number
• Status
• First licensure date
• Expiration date
• License history
• Disciplinary actions, if any
• Training or coursework details

Phone Verification: Call the Registry at (207) 624-7300, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. ET.

How to Renew Your CNA License in Maine

A CNA license in Maine must be renewed every 24 months through the Maine DHHS, Division of Licensing and Certification (DLC). Renewal keeps your listing active on the CNA and DCW Registry and is required for continued employment.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

You may renew if all of the following apply:

• Completed at least 8 hours of paid CNA work in the past 24 months
• No disqualifying annotations on your record
• Submitted a completed renewal form before expiration

Step 2: Watch for Renewal Notice

The Registry mails reminders 45–60 days before expiration. Keep your contact information current. Renewal is your responsibility even if no notice is received.

Step 3: Submit Your Renewal

Renew Online

Visit the Maine Online Licensing Portal, select “Renew an active CNA Registry listing”, and follow the instructions.

Renew by Paper Form

You may also return the renewal form by:

• Email: DLRS.CNARegistry@maine.gov
• Fax: (207) 287-9325
• Mail: Division of Licensing and Certification, Attn: CNA Registry, 41 Anthony Avenue, Augusta, ME 04333

Step 4: Verify Renewal

Processing may take up to four weeks. Confirm your status through the Registry Lookup Tool.

Important: Failure to renew every 24 months will inactivate your listing and bar you from CNA employment until reinstated.

How to Reinstate Your CNA License in Maine

If your CNA license has lapsed, you may apply for reinstatement through the Maine DHHS, Division of Licensing and Certification (DLC).

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• At least 8 hours of paid CNA employment in the past 24 months
• No disqualifying annotations on the Registry

CNAs without 8 hours of paid employment in the past 24 months must complete retraining and retesting before reapplying.

Step 2: Complete the Application

Option A: Apply Online

Visit the Regulatory Licensing & Permitting Portal. Select “Reinstate an inactive CNA Registry listing” and follow the instructions.

Option B: Apply by Form

Download the CNA Registry Application (PDF). In Section 2, check:

• “New Application”
• “Inactive – applying for reinstatement”

Include employment verification, a government-issued photo ID, and a copy of your background check.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

• Email: dlrs.cnaregistry@maine.gov
• Fax: (207) 287-9325
• Mail:
  Maine DHHS – Division of Licensing and Certification
  Attn: CNA Registry
  11 State House Station
  Augusta, ME 04330-0011

Step 4: Await Processing

Allow up to 30 days for review. Incomplete applications may take longer.

Step 5: Verify Reinstatement

Once approved, your status will appear as Active in the Registry Lookup Tool. You cannot work until listed as Active.

How to Transfer Your CNA License to Maine

CNAs certified in another U.S. state may apply for certification in Maine through reciprocity. You cannot work as a CNA in Maine until listed as Active on the Registry.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• You hold a current and active CNA certificate from another state
• You have no disqualifying annotations
• You can provide proof of approved CNA training

Step 2: Choose How to Apply

• Online: Visit the Maine Licensing Portal.
  1. Select Apply to be placed on the CNA Registry and click Continue
  2. Choose Application for CNA – Trained in another State/Jurisdiction and click Continue
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions
• By Mail: Download the CNA Registry Application (PDF). Select New Application and check CNA trained in another State/Jurisdiction.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

• Copy of your active out-of-state CNA certificate
• Proof of CNA training (certificate, diploma, or transcript)
• Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport; student IDs not accepted)
• List of all states where you have held CNA certification, including the names used
• Copy of the criminal background check completed at the time of training

Step 4: Submit Your Application

If applying online, upload documents through the portal. If applying by mail, send your application and documentation via:

• Email: DLRS.CNARegistry@maine.gov
• Fax: (207) 287-9325
• Mail: Maine DHHS, Division of Licensing and Certification, Attn: CNA Registry, 11 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04330-0011

Step 5: Wait for Processing

Allow up to 30 days for review. Incomplete submissions may delay processing. Written confirmation will be sent once approved.

Step 6: Verify Your Maine Listing

After approval, your certification will appear as Active in the Registry Lookup Tool.

Note: There is no fee to apply for reciprocity in Maine. For assistance, call the Registry at (207) 624-7300 or email DLRS.CNARegistry@maine.gov.

Maine Nurse Aide Registry

The Maine CNA and DCW Registry, maintained by the Maine DHHS, Division of Licensing and Certification (DLC), is the official database of CNAs authorized to work in the state. It records certification status, renewal eligibility, training history, and any substantiated findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation. Employers must verify a CNA’s active status before hire, while CNAs use the Registry to confirm certification, apply for placement, renew or reinstate certification, and update personal or employment information.

Contact Information

• Agency: Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
• Division: Division of Licensing and Certification (DLC)
• Mailing Address: 11 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04330-0011
• Physical Address: 41 Anthony Avenue, Augusta, ME 04333
• Phone: (207) 624-7300
• Toll-Free: 1-800-791-4080
• Fax: (207) 287-9325
• Email: DLRS.CNARegistry@maine.gov
• Registry Search: Maine Nurse Aide Registry Search

State-Approved CNA Programs in Maine

CNA training programs in Maine must be approved by the DLC to qualify for certification. Each program combines classroom instruction, skills lab practice, and supervised clinical training in a licensed facility. When selecting a program, consider tuition, duration, schedule, clinical site, and location. A list of approved programs in Maine is provided below.

1. Eastern Maine Community College

   354 Hogan Rd, Bangor, ME 04401

   (207) 974-4600

2. Loring Job Corps Center

   36 Montana Rd, Limestone, ME 04750

   (207) 328-4710

3. Maine College of Health Professions

   70 Middle St, Lewiston, ME 04240

   (207) 795-2840

4. Penobscot Job Corps Center

   1375 Union St, Bangor, ME 04401

   (207) 990-3000

5. University of Southern Maine

   96 Falmouth St, Portland, ME 04103

   (800) 800-4876

6. Washington County Community College (WCCC)

   1 College Dr, Calais, ME 04619

   (207) 454-1012

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age to get a CNA license in Maine?

You must be at least 16 years old to qualify for certification.

Does military medical training count toward CNA certification?

Yes. Submit a CNA application, documentation of military training or equivalent work, training dates and hours, proof of at least ninth-grade education, and either a military training certificate (if active duty) or a DD214 (if not active duty).

Can I become a CNA in Maine if I was trained as a nurse in another country?

Yes. Submit a CNA application, diploma or transcripts translated into English, a criminal background check, a visa, and documentation from the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS).

Can I work as a CNA in Maine before being listed on the Registry?

No. You must be listed as Active on the CNA and DCW Registry. Facilities may hire CNAs before listing if granted reciprocity or deemed competent under Maine State Board of Nursing rules, for no more than four months.

Are CNAs allowed to work independently in Maine?

No. CNAs must work under the supervision of a registered nurse. Independent or private-duty CNA work is not permitted.

Can I become a Medication Aide (CNA-M) in Maine?

Yes. You must be listed as Active on the Registry, have at least one year of full-time CNA employment, and complete the Standardized Medication Course approved by the Maine State Board of Nursing.

How do I update my name or address on the Registry?

Submit updates by email, fax, mail, or through the CNA Licensing Portal. Legal name changes require supporting documentation such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Key Takeaways

• Complete approved training: Finish a DLC-approved CNA program with at least 130 hours of classroom, lab, and clinical instruction.
• Pass both exam components: Take the knowledge and skills tests within two years of training, with up to three attempts allowed for each part.
• Apply for Registry placement: Submit the application online or by form with proof of training, photo ID, and the background check completed at enrollment.
• Appear on the Registry: Once approved, your active status is posted on the CNA and DCW Registry as official proof of certification.
• Renew every two years: Complete at least eight hours of paid CNA work, maintain a record free of disqualifying annotations, and submit your renewal on time.
• Reinstate if expired: If inactive but eligible, submit a reinstatement application with proof of employment, ID, and background check. CNAs without required work hours must retrain and retest.
• Transfer by reciprocity: Apply online or by form with proof of active out-of-state certification, training documentation, ID, list of all states certified, and background check. No fee is required.

Amanda Jordan Amanda writes clear, regulatory-focused content that guides and supports healthcare professionals in their practice.