Maryland Board of Nursing
4140 Patterson Avenue,
Baltimore, MD 21215
Phone: (410) 585-1900
Fax: (410) 585-8042
In the state of Maryland, CNA is the entry-level certificate among multiple types and levels of nursing assistant certification. The Maryland CNA registry credential is issued upon completion of a training program and clearing of background checks. Maryland does not require passing a national certifying examination. In addition to CNA certification, CNAs may hold several adjunct certifications, including Home Health Aides, Certified Medication Aides, and Dialysis Technicians.
How to Become a CNA in Maryland
Certified nursing assistant must be certified by the Maryland Board of Nursing to be able to use the CNA title. A CNA performs nursing tasks delegated by a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse for compensation. To be certified by the Board, a nursing assistant must fill out an application for certification.
- CNA programs approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing
- Name change form
- Online application for initial CNA certification
- Online Verification of Your Maryland Nurse Aide Certification
- RN/LPN endorsement and temporary license
- Facts about certification as a nursing assistant
- Student nurse working as CNAs
Certification Renewal for Maryland Nurse Assistants
Nursing assistants are required to renew their certification with the Maryland Board of Nursing every two years their birth month. Nurse assistants can renew their certification online:
- 60 days before the expiration date
- 30 days after the expiration date
The expiration date for NA certificates is the 28th day of the holder’s month of birth. Certificate holders can check the updated status on the MBN website 2-4 days after renewing. Renewal is dependent on the holder having completed a minimum of 16hours of paid work as a CNA.
Application for certification renewal
Reinstatement of a Lapsed Nurse Aide Certificate
A reinstatement is required if the certificate holder has not performed 16 hours of paid work as a CNA and has allowed more than a year to pass since the expiration date. In order to reinstate a lapsed nurse assistant certification, you must complete a CNA renewal application and retake the competency exam.
Application to reinstate an expired license
Out-of-state CNA Certification Transfer
The CNA registry in Maryland permits certification by endorsement for CNAs certified in other states given that they are in good standing and active with the registry in their home state. However, if an out-of-state CAN is not active in their home state CAN registry, they must enroll and complete and Maryland approved training course for CNAs. Maryland requires that the verification of a CAN status with the home registry come directly to the Maryland CNA Certification. Call 410-585-2044 or fax a request at 410-764-8042.