Maryland Certified Nursing Assistant License
Maryland Board of Nursing
Total Fee
$20
Processing Time
4 to 6 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 — $20
How to Apply
-
Complete Approved Training Program ▾Successfully complete a Nursing Assistant training program approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing.
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Create Portal Account & Apply ▾Register for an account on the Maryland Nurse Portal, then log in to complete and submit your initial Nursing Assistant certification application online.
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Complete Background Check ▾Undergo a fingerprint-based criminal history records check (CHRC) as directed by the Maryland Board of Nursing.
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Pass NNAAP Exam ▾Register for and pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) examination, administered by Credentia in Maryland.
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Await Certification ▾Once all required documentation (including training verification, background check results, and NNAAP exam scores) is received and processed, the Maryland Board of Nursing will review your application and issue certification.
Total Fee
$20
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Maryland Board of Nursing for current transfer requirements.
Steps
-
Submit Your Application ▾Apply through the Maryland Board of Nursing. The application fee is $20.
-
Provide License Verification ▾Maryland 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.
-
Provide Proof of Training ▾Certificate of completion from your approved CNA training program.
-
Submit Your State Competency Exam Results ▾Official verification of passing your state's nurse aide competency evaluation.
-
Complete Fingerprinting and Background Screening ▾Maryland 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 Maryland can add 2-4 weeks to your processing time.
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Await Board Processing ▾Plan for a processing timeline of about 4 to 6 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
Maryland Board of Nursing
Keeping Your License Active
Maryland Certified Nursing Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Maryland Board of Nursing for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $20 |
| Endorsement application | $20 |
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 Maryland CNA endorsement cost?
▾
The endorsement application fee is $20. Additional costs may include background check fees.
Is a background check required?
▾
Yes, a fingerprint-based background check is required in Maryland.
How long does it take to transfer my CNA certification to Maryland?
▾
Most endorsement applications take 2 to 4 Weeks.
Can I start working in Maryland while waiting?
▾
Check with the state board about temporary practice permits while your endorsement is being processed.
Board Info
Sources