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
- CNA Initial Application Form — The official MBON application form for initial certification. Get Form
- Passport-Style Photograph — A recent 2x2 inch full-face color photograph must be taped to the application.
- CHRC Tracking Number — The receipt or tracking number from your completed Livescan fingerprinting session.
- Certificate of Training Completion — A copy of the certificate from your MBON-approved training program.
How to Apply
-
Complete Approved Training ▾Complete a Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON) approved Nursing Assistant training program consisting of at least 100 hours (60 classroom, 40 clinical).
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Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) ▾Complete a fingerprint-based background check through the Maryland Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS). Use Agency Authorization #9300000850 and ORI #MD920480Z.
-
Register for GNA Exam (Optional but Recommended) ▾If you wish to work in long-term care, you must pass the Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) exam administered by Credentia. Note: As of April 2026, GNA is redesignated as CNA-I.
Register via Credentia -
Submit Initial Application ▾Download and complete the CNA Initial Application. Include a 2x2 passport-style photo, the $20 application fee (check or money order), and your CHRC tracking number.
Download Application PDF -
Verify Certification ▾Once processed, your certification will appear on the MBON online registry. Maryland does not issue paper certificates.
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
-
Verify Out-of-State License ▾Ensure your current CNA certification is active and in good standing in your home state.
Verify via Nursys -
Complete Maryland Fingerprints ▾Complete the Maryland CHRC process using the specific codes for the Board of Nursing.
-
Request Endorsement Packet ▾Download the CNA Endorsement Application from the MBON website or request it via email at mbon.cnaend@maryland.gov.
Download Endorsement PDF -
Submit Application and Fee ▾Mail the completed application, $20 fee, passport photo, and proof of out-of-state certification to the Board.
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
Incorrect Photo Format
▾
Submitting a photo that is not exactly 2x2 inches or not passport-quality is the most common reason for application rejection.
Missing CHRC Tracking Number
▾
Applications cannot be processed without the tracking number from the fingerprinting receipt.
Online System Downtime
▾
The MBON online payment and renewal system is frequently down for maintenance; applicants should be prepared to mail paper forms and checks.
Incomplete Training Verification
▾
Failure to include the training program's official completion letter or certificate will halt the process.
Questions
What is the difference between CNA-I and CNA-II?
▾
Effective April 1, 2026, CNA-I is the new designation for what was formerly the Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA), and CNA-II is the designation for the basic Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
Is an exam required for basic CNA certification?
▾
No, basic CNA (now CNA-II) certification only requires completion of an approved training program and a background check. An exam is only required for CNA-I (formerly GNA) status.
How much does it cost to apply?
▾
The initial application fee for CNA-I or CNA-II is $20. Renewal is $40 every two years.
What are the renewal requirements?
▾
You must have performed at least 16 hours of active nursing assistant practice within the two years preceding renewal and complete a one-time implicit bias and structural racism training.
Does Maryland issue paper certificates?
▾
No, Maryland discontinued paper certificates in 2007. The online 'Look Up A License' portal is the only official verification.
Board Info
Sources