Mississippi CNA Certification Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Mississippi
Official source: licensing in Mississippi is administered by the Mississippi State Department of Health - Nurse Aide Registry. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying.
Apply on Official Site1 Training Program Requirements
Program Requirements
Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program
Additional Requirements
- Mississippi requires 75 hours of training (federal minimum)
- Must include classroom and clinical training components
- Training must be completed at a state-approved program
2 Competency Examination
Exam Name
Nurse Aide Competency Exam
Test Provider
D&S Diversified Technologies
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
$95
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 | $95 |
| Background Check | $45 |
| Application/Registry Fee | $0 |
*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $Varies |
| Work Requirement | 8 hours in 24 months |
Certification Renewal
To maintain your CNA certification, you must renew every 2 years and typically demonstrate that you've worked as a CNA during that period.
Career Advancement
CNAs can advance to LPN or RN with additional education and training
Mississippi CNA Certification FAQs
How much does CNA certification cost in Mississippi?
Expect about $140 in total initial CNA certification costs in Mississippi, including a $95 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Mississippi State Department of Health - Nurse Aide Registry.
How do CNAs keep their certification active in Mississippi?
Mississippi CNAs must work at least 8 paid hours of nursing-related duties during each 2-year renewal period to stay on the state registry.
How long does it take to get CNA certification in Mississippi?
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 Mississippi?
The Mississippi State Department of Health - Nurse Aide Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (601) 576-7400.
Nurse Aide Registry
Free Tools
Other License Types in Mississippi
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 2 official sources • Last verified: June 2026