Maine CNA Certification Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Maine
Official source: licensing in Maine is administered by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services / CNA Registry. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Maine.
Apply on Official SiteHow do you renew a CNA certification in Maine?
Maine CNA certification renews every 2 years, and there is no renewal fee. You must submit documented proof of paid employment as a CNA for at least 8 hours within the last 24 consecutive months, under the supervision of a registered professional nurse in a health care setting, with a completed renewal form on or before your expiration date.
Source: 10-144 C.M.R. ch. 128, Certified Nursing Assistant and Direct Care Worker Registry Rule (eff. June 15, 2019), checked 2026-11-06.
1 Training Program Requirements
Program Requirements
Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program
Additional Requirements
- Maine requires 180 hours of approved training (one of the highest in the US)
- Must include 70 hours classroom and 110 hours clinical
- Program must be approved by Maine Department of Health and Human Services
2 Competency Examination
Exam Name
Maine CNA Competency Exam
Test Provider
Prometric
Exam Components
Written/Oral Test
Multiple choice questions on nursing assistant knowledge and skills
Skills Demonstration
Perform 3-5 randomly selected nursing skills in front of an evaluator
Exam Fee
$115
Tip: You must pass both the written (or oral) and skills portions of the exam to be certified. Most states allow multiple retake attempts if needed.
3 Background Check
CNAs work with vulnerable populations, so background checks are required in all states. Cost is typically $45.
4 Fees
Initial Certification
| Training Program | $500-$2,000* |
| Competency Exam | $115 |
| Background Check | $45 |
| Application/Registry Fee | $0 |
*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $0 |
| Work Requirement | 8 hours in 24 months |
Certification Renewal
You must submit documented proof of paid employment as a CNA for at least 8 hours within the last 24 consecutive months, under the supervision of a registered professional nurse in a health care setting, with a completed renewal form on or before your expiration date.
Career Advancement
CNAs can advance to LPN/LVN or RN with additional education
Maine CNA Certification FAQs
How much does CNA certification cost in Maine?
Expect about $195 in total initial CNA certification costs in Maine, including a $115 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services / CNA Registry.
How do you renew a CNA certification in Maine?
Maine CNA certification renews every 2 years, and there is no renewal fee. You must submit documented proof of paid employment as a CNA for at least 8 hours within the last 24 consecutive months, under the supervision of a registered professional nurse in a health care setting, with a completed renewal form on or before your expiration date.
How long does it take to get CNA certification in Maine?
Most complete applications are processed in about 6 to 14 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.
Who issues CNA certifications in Maine?
The Maine Department of Health and Human Services / CNA Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (207) 287-9300.
Nurse Aide Registry
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Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 2 official sources • Last verified: June 2026