Montana CNA License: How to Get, Transfer, Renew & Verify (2025 Updated)

To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Montana, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass the nurse aide competency exam, and be listed on the Montana Nurse Aide Registry. This guide explains how to apply for certification, verify your status, renew or reinstate your license, and transfer an active credential from another state—based on current requirements from the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS).

How to Get Your CNA License in Montana

To qualify as a CNA in Montana, you must meet training, testing, and registry requirements set by DPHHS. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program

Enroll in a DPHHS-approved Nurse Aide Training Program. The program must include at least 75 hours of instruction, with a minimum of 25 hours of supervised clinical practice.

Step 2: Pass the Montana CNA Competency Exam

After training, your program will enter your record into the Montana TestMaster Universe (TMU) system operated by D&SDT-Headmaster. You will receive login instructions by email. Go to the TMU portal to complete your account, update your profile, and schedule your exam. Confirm with your instructor before paying—some programs prepay exam fees.

The exam, administered by D&SDT-Headmaster, includes:

• Knowledge Test: 72 multiple-choice questions. A minimum score of 75% is required. An oral version is available for an additional fee.
• Skills Test: Perform 3–4 randomly selected tasks. You must complete all key steps and at least 80% of the remaining steps correctly.

Exam Retaking Policy

You may attempt each component up to three times and must pass both within six months of completing training. Challenge candidates may test once without training. If unsuccessful, you must complete a state-approved program.

Step 3: Apply for CNA Certification

After passing both exams, submit the Montana CNA by Exam Application to be placed on the Montana Nurse Aide Registry.

Application Requirements

• Select “CNA by Montana Exam” as the application reason
• Provide SSN, date of birth, name, and contact information
• Submit the form after Headmaster posts your results

Certification is issued by DPHHS and typically appears on the Montana Nurse Aide Registry within 10–14 days.

Neighboring States: Idaho • North Dakota • South Dakota • Wyoming

State-Approved CNA Programs in Montana

The following training programs are approved by DPHHS and meet certification requirements. Compare options by tuition, schedule, clinical training, and job placement support.

1. Bitterroot College

   103 S 9th St, Hamilton, MT 59840

   (406) 375-0100

2. City College

   3803 Central Ave, Billings, MT 59102

   (406) 247-3000

3. Flathead Valley Community College

   777 Grandview Dr, Kalispell, MT 59901

   (406) 756-3822

4. Highlands College

   25 Basin Creek Rd, Butte, MT 59701

   (406) 496-3707

5. Miles Community College

   2715 Dickinson St, Miles City, MT 59301

   (406) 874-6100

6. Montana Tech

   1300 W Park St, Butte, MT 59701

   (800) 445-8324

7. Stone Child College

   Upper Box Elder Rd, Box Elder, MT 59521

   (406) 395-4875

How to Verify Your CNA License in Montana

Use the Montana Nurse Aide Registry to confirm certification status and employment eligibility.

Step 1: Access the Verification Portal

Visit the Montana CNA License Verification page.

Step 2: Enter Required Information

Enter your first and last name. You may also enter your certificate number or other details to narrow the results.

Step 3: Select Certificate Type

From the Certificate Type dropdown menu, select Certified Nurse Aide.

Step 4: Complete CAPTCHA Verification

Check the reCAPTCHA box to continue.

Step 5: Submit Your Search

Click Search to view results. Each record displays:

• Full name
• Certificate number
• Status (must show Current)
• Expiration date

How to Renew Your CNA License in Montana

To remain active, you must renew every 24 months through the BOUNDS portal.

Step 1: Prepare to Access the BOUNDS Portal

Create a BOUNDS account using a unique email address.

• If your email was previously on file, follow the invitation instructions and continue to Step 3.
• If not, proceed to Step 2.

Step 2: Access the CNA Registry Form

Go to the CNA Registry Form and enter:

• First name
• Last name
• Date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY)
• Registry number

Click Find My Profile to continue.

Step 3: Submit Your Renewal

Once your profile is located, create your BOUNDS account. Follow instructions to renew. You may renew up to 90 days before expiration.

Step 4: Verify Certification Status

Renewals are processed automatically. Confirm your status using the Montana Nurse Aide Registry Search.

How to Reinstate Your CNA License in Montana

If your certification has expired, you must complete a new training program and pass the exams.

Step 1: Verify Certification Status

Check the Montana Nurse Aide Registry to confirm expiration or inactive status.

Step 2: Complete a New CNA Training Program

Expired certificate holders must complete a new state-approved program. The training provider will enter your record in TMU for exam eligibility.

Step 3: Pay for and Schedule the Exams

After your record is entered, you will receive notification. Do not pay or schedule until confirmed. Log in to the TMU portal, update your profile, and ensure your name matches your ID and Social Security card.

Exam Fees

• Knowledge Exam: $20
• Skills Exam: $77

Once payment is complete, schedule through TMU. Testing is available at regional sites, in-facility events, and remotely for knowledge retakes. For assistance, call (800) 393-8664.

Step 4: Pass the Exams and Apply for Certification

You must pass both components:

• Knowledge Exam: 72 questions, 90 minutes, minimum passing score 75%
• Skills Exam: 3–4 tasks, 80% accuracy, all key steps required

After passing, submit the CNA by Exam Application through the BOUNDS portal to be added to the registry.

Step 5: Verify Certification

Allow 10–14 days for processing, then confirm status in the Montana Nurse Aide Registry as Active.

How to Transfer Your CNA License to Montana

If you hold a CNA certificate in another U.S. state or territory, you may apply through Interstate Endorsement.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Hold a current CNA certificate
• Be in good standing with no findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation

Step 2: Create and Activate a BOUNDS Portal Account

Go to the Montana BOUNDS Portal. Select Certified Nurse Aide, then choose CNA Interstate Endorsement Application. Enter your name and email to receive an activation link.

Step 3: Complete the Interstate Endorsement Application

Log in and complete the application. Enter at least one current CNA certificate number. There is no fee.

Step 4: Monitor Application Status

Check email and BOUNDS for updates. Once approved, certification will appear in the Montana Nurse Aide Registry.

Montana Nurse Aide Registry

The Montana Nurse Aide Registry, maintained by DPHHS, is the official record of certified nurse aides authorized to work in the state. It tracks certification status, renewal eligibility, and interstate endorsement applications. All applications, renewals, and updates are submitted online through the BOUNDS portal. Employers use the registry to verify employment eligibility, while CNAs use it to apply, renew, or update personal information.

Contact Information

• Agency: Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS)
• Division: Certification Bureau
• Mailing Address: PO Box 202953, Helena, MT 59620-2953
• Phone: (406) 444-4980
• Fax: (406) 444-3456
• Email: cna@mt.gov
• Registry Search: Montana Nurse Aide Registry Search

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I become a CNA in Montana fast?

Enroll in an approved training program with an accelerated schedule, complete both exams in TMU, and submit the CNA by Exam Application through the BOUNDS portal. Certification is usually issued within 10–14 days.

Can nursing students apply for CNA certification?

Yes. Nursing students may apply through the BOUNDS portal. The school must email an official transcript showing qualifying coursework to cna@mt.gov.

Can I retake only the failed portion of the exam?

Yes. You may retake only the failed component. Each section must be scheduled and paid for separately in TMU.

Can I take the knowledge exam at home?

Yes. Knowledge exam retakes may be completed remotely using a webcam-enabled computer, a smartphone for room scanning, and a private testing space.

Are testing accommodations available?

Yes. Submit an ADA Accommodation Request with documentation through TMU before scheduling. Headmaster must approve in advance.

How can I update my name or address?

Submit a Demographic Change/Correction Request Form through TMU with legal documentation such as a marriage certificate or Social Security letter.

How can I review or appeal test results?

Submit a Test Review Request through TMU within three business days of score release. A $25 deposit is required and refunded if the appeal is granted.

Key Takeaways

• Complete approved training: Finish a DPHHS-approved Nurse Aide Training Program with at least 75 hours, including 25 hours of supervised clinical practice.
• Pass both exam components: Complete the knowledge and skills exams through D&SDT-Headmaster in the TMU system.
• Submit certification application: File the CNA by Exam Application in the BOUNDS portal to be added to the Montana Nurse Aide Registry.
• Renew every two years: Document at least 8 hours of paid CNA employment in the past 24 months and renew online through the BOUNDS portal.
• Reinstate if expired: If certification lapses, complete a new approved training program and retake both exams.
• Transfer by interstate endorsement: Submit the Interstate Endorsement Application in the BOUNDS portal with proof of at least one current out-of-state CNA certificate.
• Verify certification: Confirm active status using the Montana Nurse Aide Registry Search.

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