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Maryland Board of Nursing 
Patricia A. Noble, MSN, RN, Executive Director
Nancy D. Adams, MBA, RN, President

Methods of Obtaining Nursing Assistant Certification

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Health Occupations Article Title 8-6A-01 et. seq. requires nursing assistant certification (CNA) of any individual, regardless of title, who for compensation routinely performs nursing tasks delegated by a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse. CNA certification is also required for all geriatric nursing assistants, certified medicine aides and home health aides (including any individual working in a licensed home health agency or an individual who performs delegated nursing functions in client’s home).

It is the individual nursing assistant’s responsibility to complete the application, pay the fee and obtain certification. The Board recommends any individual regardless of title, who may be routinely performing delegated nursing tasks, obtain certification under the waiver provision while it is available. Individuals who are performing routine delegated nursing tasks may not work unless certified.

Initial Certification

Individuals must complete an approved training program [PDF] to be certified as a Nursing Assistant. The application is to be completed by the training program and must include a 2"x2" full-face photograph and the appropriate fee.

Endorsement

Nursing assistants certified in another state can transfer a certification to Maryland. Find out how to transfer your certification.

 


Last update: September 14, 2009
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Martin O'Malley, Governor
Anthony Brown, Lt. Governor
John Colmers, Secretary

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