Maryland CNA Certification Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Maryland
Official source: licensing in Maryland is administered by the Maryland Board of Nursing / CNA-GNA Registry. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Maryland.
Apply on Official SiteHow do you renew a CNA certification in Maryland?
Maryland CNA certification renews every 2 years, and the renewal fee is $40. To renew your Maryland Board of Nursing certificate every two years, you must apply, pay the renewal fee, and show 16 hours of paid employment as a nursing assistant in the 2 years before expiration. Without the 16 hours, a CNA-I must pass a competency evaluation and a CNA-II must complete a training program.
Source: COMAR 10.39.01.10 (Expiration and Renewal), 53:11 Md. R., checked 2026-11-06.
1 Training Program Requirements
Program Requirements
Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program
Additional Requirements
- Maryland requires 100 hours of approved training
- Must include classroom and clinical training components
- Program must be approved by Maryland Board of Nursing
2 Competency Examination
Exam Name
Maryland CNA/GNA 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
$110
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 $55.
4 Fees
Initial Certification
| Training Program | $500-$2,000* |
| Competency Exam | $110 |
| Background Check | $55 |
| Application/Registry Fee | $20 |
*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $40 |
| Work Requirement | 16 hours in 24 months |
Certification Renewal
To renew your Maryland Board of Nursing certificate every two years, you must apply, pay the renewal fee, and show 16 hours of paid employment as a nursing assistant in the 2 years before expiration. Without the 16 hours, a CNA-I must pass a competency evaluation and a CNA-II must complete a training program.
Career Advancement
CNAs can advance to LPN/LVN or RN with additional education
Maryland CNA Certification FAQs
How much does CNA certification cost in Maryland?
Expect about $205 in total initial CNA certification costs in Maryland, including a $20 application fee and a $110 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Maryland Board of Nursing / CNA-GNA Registry.
How do you renew a CNA certification in Maryland?
Maryland CNA certification renews every 2 years, and the renewal fee is $40. To renew your Maryland Board of Nursing certificate every two years, you must apply, pay the renewal fee, and show 16 hours of paid employment as a nursing assistant in the 2 years before expiration. Without the 16 hours, a CNA-I must pass a competency evaluation and a CNA-II must complete a training program.
How long does it take to get CNA certification in Maryland?
Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 12 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.
Who issues CNA certifications in Maryland?
The Maryland Board of Nursing / CNA-GNA Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (410) 585-1900.
Nurse Aide Registry
Free Tools
Other License Types in Maryland
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 4 official sources • Last verified: June 2026