Maine Certified Nursing Assistant License
Maine DHHS
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
2 to 3 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
What You'll Need
- Proof of Training — Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.
- State Competency Exam Results — Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.
- Fingerprint background check — through IdentoGO (IDEMIA)
- Application fee — $0
How to Apply
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Create Professional Licensing Portal Account ▾Navigate to the State of Maine's Professional Licensing Portal and create a new account, then log in to access the online application for Nursing Assistants.
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Submit Online Application and Fee ▾Complete the online application for Nursing Assistant certification through the Professional Licensing Portal and pay the $25 application fee.
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Complete Criminal Background Check (CBC) ▾Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check as instructed during the application process. This is a mandatory requirement for certification.
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Pass Competency Exam ▾Register with Prometric (Maine's approved vendor) and pass the Maine State Board of Nursing-approved Nursing Assistant Competency Examination.
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Receive Certification ▾Upon successful completion of all requirements, the Maine State Board of Nursing will issue your CNA certification.
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
2 to 3 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Maine DHHS for current transfer requirements.
Steps
-
Submit Your Application ▾Apply through the Maine DHHS.
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Provide License Verification ▾Maine requires official verification of your active out-of-state license. This must be sent directly to the board from your current state board or its official online verification system before your file can be considered complete.
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Provide Proof of Training ▾Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.
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Submit Your State Competency Exam Results ▾Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.
-
Complete Fingerprinting and Background Screening ▾Maine requires a criminal background check for all applicants. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail. Completing prints outside Maine can add 2-4 weeks to your processing time.
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Await Board Processing ▾Plan for a processing timeline of about 2 to 3 Weeks once your file is complete. If you need to start working immediately, most states do not offer temporary practice authorization for CNAs during the endorsement process. Contact the state nurse aide registry directly for current policies on practice authorization while your application is pending.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Maine DHHS
Keeping Your License Active
Maine Certified Nursing Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Maine DHHS for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|
Slow Downs
Fingerprinting delays
▾
Out-of-state prints can add 2-4 weeks to your timeline.
Missing or incomplete documents
▾
Have all your documents ready before starting the application to avoid processing delays.
Application errors
▾
Double-check that your name matches across all documents exactly. Mismatches are a common reason for delays.
Questions
How much does Maine CNA endorsement cost?
▾
There is no application fee for CNA endorsement in Maine. However, background check fees may apply.
Is a background check required?
▾
Yes, a fingerprint-based background check is required in Maine.
How long does it take to transfer my CNA certification to Maine?
▾
Most endorsement applications take 2 to 4 Weeks.
Can I start working in Maine while waiting?
▾
Check with the state board about temporary practice permits while your endorsement is being processed.
Board Info
Sources