CNA Entry-Level

Massachusetts CNA Certification Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Massachusetts

Training Hours

100+ hours

Total Initial Cost

$205

Program Duration

4-8 weeks for training program

Renewal Period

2 years

Official source: licensing in Massachusetts is administered by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health / Nurse Aide Registry. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Massachusetts.

Apply on Official Site

How do you renew a CNA certification in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts CNA certification renews every 2 years. You must have worked for pay as a nurse aide for at least eight hours performing nursing-related duties within the past two years. If you renew late, your employer must verify you worked at least one 8-hour shift during your two-year certification period.

Source: Mass.gov DPH Nurse Aide Registry Program: Renewal information for Massachusetts certified nurse aides (Wayback snapshot 2026-03-14; live page returned 403), checked 2026-11-06.

1 Training Program Requirements

Program Requirements

Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program

100+

Minimum training hours

4-8 weeks for training program

Typical program length

Additional Requirements

Massachusetts requires 100 hours of approved training
Must include at least 24 hours clinical training
Program must be approved by Massachusetts Department of Public Health

2 Competency Examination

Exam Name

Massachusetts Nurse Aide 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

Criminal background check (CORI)

CNAs work with vulnerable populations, so background checks are required in all states. Cost is typically $60.

4 Fees

Initial Certification

Training Program	$500-$2,000*
Competency Exam	$115
Background Check	$60
Application/Registry Fee	$30

*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)	Not confirmed
Work Requirement	8 hours in 24 months

Certification Renewal

2 years

Renewal cycle

8+ hours

Work requirement

You must have worked for pay as a nurse aide for at least eight hours performing nursing-related duties within the past two years. If you renew late, your employer must verify you worked at least one 8-hour shift during your two-year certification period.

Career Advancement

CNAs can advance to LPN/LVN or RN with additional education

LVN/LPN Licensing RN Requirements All Career Paths

Massachusetts CNA Certification FAQs

How much does CNA certification cost in Massachusetts?

Expect about $205 in total initial CNA certification costs in Massachusetts, including a $30 application fee and a $115 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health / Nurse Aide Registry.

How do you renew a CNA certification in Massachusetts?

How long does it take to get CNA certification in Massachusetts?

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 Massachusetts?

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health / Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (617) 753-8144.