CNA License in Wisconsin

How to Get a CNA License in Wisconsin

The CNA certification process in Wisconsin is overseen by DHS. Testing and registry services are provided by D&SDT-Headmaster through the TestMaster Universe (TMU) system. Follow these steps to earn your CNA license.

Step 1: Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program

Enroll in a DHS-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) with at least 75 hours:

• 59 hours of classroom and laboratory instruction
• 16 hours of supervised clinical practice

The first 16 clinical hours must include safety, infection control, communication, and residents’ rights before direct patient contact.

Step 2: Wait for TMU Record

Your training program will enter your record in TMU. You will receive login credentials by email—check your spam or junk folder if needed.

Step 3: Activate Your TMU Account

Log in, reset your password, and complete your demographic profile. Incomplete profiles can delay scheduling and forfeit fees.

Step 4: Pay the Exam Fee

If not prepaid by your employer or program, submit payment in TMU with a debit or credit card.

All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Step 5: Schedule Your CNA Exam

After payment and profile completion, schedule your exam in TMU. Pass both the Knowledge and Skills exams within one year of training. You have up to three attempts per component before retraining is required.

Knowledge Exam

• 75 multiple-choice questions
• Formats: written or audio (request audio at scheduling)
• Time limit: 90 minutes
• Passing score: 76%

Skills Exam

• Five randomly assigned skills, including mandatory hand hygiene
• Time limit: 30–40 minutes depending on assigned skills
• Must perform all key steps and score at least 80% overall

What to Bring

• Valid, unexpired U.S. government-issued photo ID matching your TMU profile

What to Wear

• Clinical scrubs (any color)
• Closed-toe, non-skid shoes
• Hair secured back

Failure to meet ID or attire requirements results in a no-show status and forfeited fees.

Step 6: Check Your Results

Official results are posted in your TMU account.

Step 7: Get Listed on the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry

After passing both exams, your name will be added to the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry, confirming active status.

State-Approved CNA Programs in Wisconsin

The following CNA training programs are approved by DHS. When selecting a program, consider tuition, location, schedule flexibility, clinical site partnerships, and job placement support.

1. Blackhawk Technical College

   6004 S County Rd G, Janesville, WI 53546
   (608) 758-6900

2. Chippewa Valley Technical College

   620 W Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701
   (715) 833-6200

3. Gateway Technical College

   1001 Main St, Racine, WI 53403
   (800) 247-7122

4. Madison Area Technical College

   1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
   (608) 246-6100

5. Mid-State Technical College

   500 32nd St N, Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494
   (715) 422-5300

6. Moraine Park Technical College

   235 N National Ave, Fond du Lac, WI 54935
   (800) 472-4554

7. Nicolet Area Technical College

   5364 College Dr, Rhinelander, WI 54501
   (715) 365-4493

8. Northcentral Technical College

   1000 W Campus Dr, Wausau, WI 54401
   (715) 675-3331

9. Northeast Wisconsin Technical College

   2740 W Mason St, Green Bay, WI 54303
   (920) 498-5444

10. Waukesha County Technical College

    327 E Broadway, Waukesha, WI 53186
    (262) 695-6500

11. Western Technical College

    400 7th St N, La Crosse, WI 54601
    (608) 785-9200

12. Northwood Technical College

    1900 College Dr, Rice Lake, WI 54868
    (715) 234-7082

How to Verify a CNA License in Wisconsin

Use the official verification system managed by D&SDT-Headmaster for DHS to confirm your CNA license status, work eligibility, and any substantiated findings.

Step 1: Access the Registry Search

Go to the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry Search.

Step 2: Choose a Search Method

• Registration Number — most accurate
• Name — first and last name
• Social Security Number (SSN)

Step 3: Enter Search Criteria

Enter the required information in the Look For field and confirm accuracy.

Step 4: Submit Search

Click Search to view results showing name, city, ZIP, certification number, and status.

Step 5: View Record Details

Click your name to see full details, including:

• Status — Active, Expired, or Archived
• Work Eligibility — federal and/or state facility approval
• Certification History — issue and expiration dates
• Substantiated Findings — abuse, neglect, misappropriation, or clear record

How to Renew a CNA License in Wisconsin

Wisconsin CNA certification must be renewed every 24 months via the TMU portal. Renewal opens 90 days before expiration.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Worked at least 8 hours in a paid CNA role under RN or LPN supervision in the past 24 months at a federally certified facility
• No substantiated abuse, neglect, or misappropriation findings

Step 2: Log in to TMU

Sign in with your registered email and password. Use “Forgot Password” if needed.

Step 3: Enter Employment Information

• Go to the Employment tab
• Click Add Employment Renewal
• Enter employer details, dates, and hours

Step 4: Employer Verification

TMU emails your employer to confirm work history. Once verified, your certification renews for 24 months. No renewal fee is required.

Step 5: Confirm Your Renewal

After processing, TMU updates your status in the Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry and sends confirmation by email or text.

How to Reinstate a CNA License in Wisconsin

If your CNA certification has lapsed, you must retake and pass the competency exam to regain active status.

Step 1: Apply for Testing

Submit your application through the TMU portal. Ensure all details match your ID.

Step 2: Pay the Exam Fees

Total cost: $137.75 (written) or $143.00 (audio) with skills exam.

Step 3: Take the Competency Exam

• Complete both knowledge and skills components
• Up to three attempts within one year
• After three failures, retraining is required

Step 4: Confirm Active Status

Upon passing, your certification will be updated to Active in the registry.

How to Transfer a CNA License to Wisconsin

Active out-of-state CNAs can apply for Wisconsin certification through reciprocity in TMU. You cannot work until listed as Active on the registry.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Active CNA certification in good standing
• No substantiated abuse, neglect, or misappropriation
• Either:
  • Completed a 75-hour state-approved program
  • Worked 2,088 CNA hours in the past two years (Form 9110WI-A required)

Step 2: Complete the Reciprocity Application

Fill out the Wisconsin CNA Reciprocity Application (Form 9110WI) in TMU.

Step 3: Upload Required Documentation

• Proof of training
• Form 9110WI-A if applicable
• Social Security card
• U.S. government-issued photo ID

Note: Incomplete applications expire after 30 days.

Step 4: Review Outcome and Testing Requirements

• If equivalent, you will be listed on the registry
• If not, you must test or retrain as required

Step 5: Submit and Monitor Status

Submit your application and monitor email for updates. Verify your listing after approval.

Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry

The Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry, maintained by D&SDT-Headmaster under contract with DHS, is the official database of nurse aides authorized to work in Wisconsin. The registry provides certification verification, renewal eligibility, reciprocity placement, and records of substantiated findings. Nurse aides use the TMU portal to confirm active status and update demographic information, while employers use it to verify work eligibility.

Contact Information

• Registry Administrator: D&SDT-Headmaster
• Mailing Address: PO Box 6609, Helena, MT 59604
• Phone: (888) 401-0465
• Fax: (406) 442-3357
• Email: wisconsin@hdmaster.com
• Registry Search: Wisconsin Nurse Aide Registry Search
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. CT

Frequently Asked Questions

What does D&SDT-Headmaster do in Wisconsin?

D&SDT-Headmaster administers nurse aide exams, operates TMU, supports applications and scheduling, and provides registry and verification services in partnership with DHS.

Can I take the knowledge exam from home?

Yes. A remotely proctored knowledge exam is available. You must have an updated Chrome browser, reliable internet, a compatible device, and a smartphone with the required video app.

How do I request a review of my test results?

Submit a Test Review Request within three business days of official scoring and pay the $25 non-refundable deposit. If the review is in your favor, the deposit is refunded.

How long can I work as a student nurse aide before certification?

You may work up to 120 days from your employment start date while enrolled in an approved program. If not listed on the registry by day 120, you must stop working as a nurse aide.

Can employers verify my work history for renewal?

Yes. Authorized employers can verify CNA employment in TMU to support renewal or reinstatement.

What does “Archived” status mean on the registry?

“Archived” indicates the record is not active for CNA employment. To regain eligibility, follow reinstatement requirements, which may include retesting.

How do I update my name or other demographics?

Update your TMU profile. Legal name, date of birth, or Social Security number changes require uploading supporting documents, such as a marriage certificate or court order, via the designated TMU form.

Key Takeaways

• Complete approved training: Finish a DHS-approved NATCEP with 75 hours, including 59 hours of classroom and lab instruction and 16 hours of clinical practice.
• Pass both exam components: Take the knowledge (written or audio) and skills exams through D&SDT-Headmaster in the TMU system.
• Maintain active status: Work at least 8 hours in a paid CNA role under RN or LPN supervision in a federally certified facility every 24 months.
• Renew through TMU: Log in, submit employment details, and complete employer verification. No renewal fee is required.
• Reinstate if expired: If certification lapses, reapply in TMU and pass both exam components to regain eligibility.
• Transfer by reciprocity: Apply in TMU, provide required documentation, and meet training or work requirements to be placed on the WNAR.