CNA Entry-Level

Missouri CNA Certification Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Missouri

Training Hours

75+ hours

Total Initial Cost

$134

Program Duration

4-6 weeks for training program

Renewal Period

2 years

Official source: licensing in Missouri is administered by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services - CNA Registry. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Missouri.

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How do you renew a CNA certification in Missouri?

Missouri CNA certification renews every 2 years, and the renewal fee is $20. To stay active you must submit documentation (pay stubs, W-2 or an employer letter) of work in nursing or nursing-related services for at least one day (e.g. eight hours) within each 24-consecutive-month period, to the department's third-party test administrator, and a fee is charged for each renewal.

Source: 19 CSR 30-84.010(18)(B) (Missouri Code of State Regulations, 11/30/21), checked 2026-11-06.

1 Training Program Requirements

Program Requirements

Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program

75+

Minimum training hours

4-6 weeks for training program

Typical program length

Additional Requirements

Missouri requires 75 hours of training (federal minimum)
Must include at least 16 hours of supervised clinical training
Training must be completed at a state-approved program

2 Competency Examination

Exam Name

Nurse Aide Competency Exam

Test Provider

Headmaster Testing

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

$90

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

CNAs work with vulnerable populations, so background checks are required in all states. Cost is typically $44.

4 Fees

Initial Certification

Training Program	$500-$2,000*
Competency Exam	$90
Background Check	$44
Application/Registry Fee	$0

*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)	$20
Work Requirement	8 hours in 24 months

Certification Renewal

2 years

Renewal cycle

8+ hours

Work requirement

To stay active you must submit documentation (pay stubs, W-2 or an employer letter) of work in nursing or nursing-related services for at least one day (e.g. eight hours) within each 24-consecutive-month period, to the department's third-party test administrator, and a fee is charged for each renewal.

Career Advancement

CNAs can advance to LPN or RN with additional education and training

LVN/LPN Licensing RN Requirements All Career Paths

Missouri CNA Certification FAQs

How much does CNA certification cost in Missouri?

Expect about $134 in total initial CNA certification costs in Missouri, including a $90 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services - CNA Registry.

How do you renew a CNA certification in Missouri?

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

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 10 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues CNA certifications in Missouri?

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services - CNA Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (573) 526-5686.