CNA License in Maryland

How to Get a CNA License in Maryland

The CNA certification process in Maryland is regulated by MBON, with competency testing administered by Credentia. Follow these steps to earn your CNA license.

Step 1: Complete a State-Approved Training Program

Enroll in an MBON-approved CNA program. Each program must include at least 100 hours of instruction, with a minimum of 40 hours of supervised clinical practice in a licensed Maryland nursing home.

Step 2: Complete a Criminal History Records Check

Complete a Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) through the Maryland Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS). Use the official Livescan Pre-Registration Application and present it at an approved fingerprinting site. Options include the CJIS Storefront in Baltimore (walk-in), Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) locations (appointment required), and authorized private providers.

The state fee is $31.25 at CJIS sites; private vendors may add service charges.

Step 3: Apply for the CNA Exam

After training and fingerprinting, apply for the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP®) exam through the CNA365® platform. Create an account, select Maryland as your eligibility route, upload required documents, and pay the exam fee or apply a prepaid voucher. Your application must be approved before scheduling.

You must pass both exam components within 24 months of training, with up to four attempts allowed before retraining is required.

Step 4: Take the CNA Exam

The NNAAP exam has two parts:

• Knowledge Exam – Choose one format:
  • Written: 70 multiple-choice questions
  • Oral: 60 multiple-choice and 10 reading comprehension questions (English or Spanish)
• Skills Evaluation – Five randomly assigned skills, including mandatory hand hygiene and one measurement skill, completed within 30 minutes

All fees are non-refundable and must be paid through CNA365 by credit, debit, prepaid card, or voucher.

Step 5: Get Listed on the Maryland Nurse Aide Registry

After passing both exam components, Credentia reports your results to MBON. Once processed, your active status appears in the Maryland Nurse Aide Registry. Maryland does not issue paper certificates; the registry serves as official proof of certification.

State-Approved CNA Programs in Maryland

CNA training programs must be approved by MBON to qualify for certification. Each program provides classroom instruction and supervised clinical practice in a licensed facility. Before enrolling, review details such as cost, duration, schedule, and clinical site placement to find the option that best fits your needs. A list of approved CNA programs in Maryland is provided below.

1. Anne Arundel Community College

   101 College Pkwy, Arnold, MD 21012
   (410) 777-2222

2. Community College of Baltimore County

   10300 Grand Central Ave, Owings Mills, MD 21117
   (443) 840-4700

3. Howard Community College

   10901 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia, MD 21044
   (443) 518-1000

4. Montgomery College Health Sciences Center

   7977 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20910
   (240) 567-5507

5. Frederick Community College

   7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick, MD 21702
   (301) 846-2400

6. Hagerstown Community College

   11400 Robinwood Dr, Hagerstown, MD 21742
   (240) 500-2000

7. Harford Community College

   401 Thomas Run Rd, Bel Air, MD 21015
   (443) 412-2000

8. College of Southern Maryland

   8730 Mitchell Rd, La Plata, MD 20646
   (301) 934-2251

9. Allegany College of Maryland

   12401 Willowbrook Rd, La Vale, MD 21502
   (301) 784-5000

10. Chesapeake College

    1000 College Cir, Queenstown, MD 21658
    (410) 822-5400

How to Verify a CNA License in Maryland

The Maryland Board of Nursing maintains the official registry of CNAs. Use the online system or phone line to confirm your license status and expiration date.

Step 1: Access the Verification Portal

Go to the Maryland License Verification page.

Step 2: Select Profession

• From the Profession menu, select Nursing Assistant.

Step 3: Select License Type

• From the License Type menu, select CNA.

Step 4: Enter Search Criteria

• Enter first and last name for a name search.
• Enter your license number for more accurate results.

Step 5: Review Results

The system displays a list of matches. Select your record to open the detailed view.

Step 6: Confirm License Details

The details page shows:

• Full name
• License number
• Profession (Nursing Assistant)
• License type (CNA)
• Status — must be Active to work
• Issue date and expiration date
• Disciplinary actions, if applicable

How to Renew a CNA License in Maryland

CNA certification in Maryland is valid for two years and must be renewed through MBON. The renewal fee is $40.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

You may renew if your certification is active or within the 30-day grace period. Certification expires on the 28th day of your birth month in either an odd or even year, depending on your year of birth.

Step 2: Complete the Criminal History Records Check (If Required)

If a CHRC is required, complete fingerprinting through CJIS:

• Visit a CJIS fingerprinting site or request a fingerprint card if out of state
• Bring the Livescan Pre-Registration Application with the MBON ORI number (MD920499Z) and authorization number (0900006155)
• Keep your receipt and tracking number for submission with your renewal application

Step 3: Submit the Renewal Application

Log in to the MBON CNA Renewal Portal with your certification number, last name, and Social Security Number or Tax ID. Complete the form, enter your CHRC tracking number if required, and pay the $40 fee with Visa or MasterCard.

If your employer is sponsoring payment, submit your renewal first so the employer can locate your record and pay on your behalf.

Step 4: Verify Certification Status

Once processed, confirm your updated status through the MBON License Verification portal.

How to Reinstate a CNA License in Maryland

If your CNA license has been expired for more than one year, you must apply for reinstatement through MBON. This requires a new background check and submission of the reinstatement application.

Step 1: Request the Reinstatement Application

Contact MBON to obtain the reinstatement form and instructions. The form is not available online.

• Email: mbon.cna@maryland.gov
• Phone: (410) 585-2041

Step 2: Complete the Criminal History Records Check (CHRC)

All applicants must complete a fingerprint-based background check through CJIS:

• In Maryland: Schedule fingerprinting at an approved Livescan site and bring the required pre-registration form.
• Out of state: Request a fingerprint card from MBON and submit it to CJIS. Do not send fingerprint cards to MBON.
• Keep your fingerprint receipt and tracking number for your records.

Step 3: Submit the Reinstatement Packet

Mail your completed application and required documents to MBON. Include:

• Completed reinstatement form provided by MBON
• CHRC tracking number and fingerprint receipt
• Copy of your expired CNA certificate (if available)
• $40 fee by certified check or money order

Mail to:

Maryland Board of Nursing
Attn: Renewal Department
4140 Patterson Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21215

Step 4: Wait for Board Review

MBON processes your application after receiving the form, payment, and CHRC results. Incomplete submissions delay reinstatement.

Step 5: Verify Your Certification

Once approved, confirm your active status using the MBON License Verification portal.

How to Transfer a CNA License to Maryland

If certified in another U.S. state, you may apply for Maryland CNA certification by endorsement through MBON. You may not work until your status is listed as Active on the Maryland Nurse Aide Registry.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Hold a current, active CNA certificate from another state
• Be listed on a Nurse Aide Registry that meets OBRA standards
• Have no findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation
• If not listed on any registry, complete a Maryland-approved 100-hour CNA training program

Step 2: Request the Endorsement Application

The application is not available online. Request it directly from MBON:

• Phone: (410) 585-2044
• Fax: (410) 764-8042
• Email: anitaj.williams@maryland.gov

Step 3: Complete the Application

Provide accurate information, including:

• Your date of birth
• Responses to all disciplinary history questions
• Your signature and the date

Step 4: Prepare Supporting Documents

• Copy of your current out-of-state CNA certificate or registry card
• Copy of a government-issued photo ID
• One passport-style photograph
• If applicable, court records or explanations for past disciplinary actions

Step 5: Pay the Endorsement Fee

• $20 non-refundable application fee
• Certified check or money order payable to Maryland Board of Nursing

Step 6: Submit Your Application Package

Mail the completed application, supporting documents, and fee to the address listed on the form.

Step 7: Verify Your Certification

Processing may take up to 45 days. Once approved, your certification will be listed as Active in the MBON License Verification system.

Maryland Nurse Aide Registry

The Maryland Nurse Aide Registry, maintained by MBON, is the official record of nurse aides authorized to work in the state. The registry shows certification status, renewal information, training completion, and disciplinary findings. Employers must verify an aide’s active status before hire. Nurse aides may also use it to confirm certification, update contact details, and check renewal or reinstatement results.

Contact Information

• Agency: Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON)
• Address: 4140 Patterson Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21215
• Phone: (410) 585-1900
• Fax: (410) 764-8042
• Email: mbon.cna@maryland.gov
• Registry Search: Maryland CNA Registry

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age to become a CNA in Maryland?

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

Can I take CNA classes online in Maryland?

No. You must complete in-person classroom and clinical training in a licensed Maryland facility. Fully online CNA programs are not approved.

How long does it take to get a CNA license in Maryland?

It usually takes 4 to 8 weeks to finish training, pass the exam, and be added to the registry.

Is the Maryland CNA exam hard to pass?

The exam is manageable with preparation. You must pass both the knowledge exam and the skills evaluation. You have up to four attempts within 24 months of completing training.

Can I work while waiting for my CNA license in Maryland?

No. You must be listed on the registry before working as a CNA. However, you may work as a nursing assistant trainee for up to 120 days while enrolled in a Board-approved program.

What is the difference between a CNA and a GNA in Maryland?

As a CNA, you provide basic nursing care. After passing the NNAAP exam, you become a GNA and may work in licensed nursing homes. CNA certification is required before applying for GNA status.

Does Maryland accept military medical training for CNA certification?

Yes. If you completed equivalent medical training in the military, you may submit documentation to MBON for review toward CNA eligibility.

How do I change my name or address on the Nurse Aide Registry?

Log in to your Credentia account to update your address under the Manage Profile section. To change your name, submit a Correction Form with legal documentation, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Key Takeaways

• Complete approved training: Finish an MBON-approved program with at least 100 hours, including 40 hours of supervised clinical practice in a licensed nursing home.
• Submit fingerprint clearance: Complete a CHRC through CJIS using the Livescan Pre-Registration Application.
• Pass both exam components: Take the written or oral knowledge test and the skills evaluation through Credentia within 24 months of training.
• Appear on the state registry: Once certified, your active status is posted on the Maryland Nurse Aide Registry, which serves as official proof of certification.
• Renew every two years: Pay the $40 fee and complete renewal through the MBON portal. A CHRC may be required if results on file are no longer valid.
• Reinstate if expired: If lapsed more than one year, request the reinstatement application from MBON, submit new fingerprints, and pay the $40 fee.
• Transfer by endorsement: Submit the MBON endorsement application with proof of active out-of-state certification, supporting documents, and the $20 fee.