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Maryland Certified Nursing Assistant — Requirements & Free Practice

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Certified Nursing Assistant-I (CNA-I)

Ordinary current certification for practice in any setting; includes former GNA and approved CNA-II conversions. Prior School Health, Home Health and Developmental Disabilities categories are administratively replaced by CNA-II, not separate current credentials.

Licensing authority: Maryland Board of Nursing

Initial certification — approved acute care nursing assistant training

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education
Successfully complete a Board-approved acute care nursing assistant training program; this qualifies the applicant to sit the nursing assistant competency evaluation under §8–6A–05(c)(3)(ii).
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Initial certification — approved nursing assistant training

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education
Successfully complete a Board-approved nursing assistant training program; the program coordinator or faculty must verify completion.
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Initial certification by endorsement / reciprocity
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the Board application, fee, identification and required criminal-history checks under COMAR 10.39.01.04 and .06B. The Board fact sheet requires active OBRA-compliant registry status, proof of fingerprinting and the current registry certificate/card.
Competency Evidence
The specific endorsement pathway in §8–6A–06 and COMAR .05B relies on equivalent current certification and training; Credentia A-4 expressly excuses the NNAAP. Another jurisdiction’s own examinations are not leaves of this route.
Eligibility
No abuse, neglect or misappropriation record, disqualifying conduct or pending or prior disciplinary action.
General Board Statement
Board FAQ 11 states: "Yes. After April 1, 2026, all applicants for CNA certification must take the nursing assistant competency evaluation." This general implementing statement is retained for applicants; the specific statutory and regulatory endorsement pathway and current vendor’s express exemption define the route.
Prior Certification
Current certification in good standing from a United States state or territory with essentially similar certification requirements; verification must come directly from the appropriate authority.
Training
Previously completed training must meet Maryland’s approved-program standards; submit the certificate of completion directly from the appropriate authority.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Administrative reinstatement of expired or lapsed certification

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Otherwise entitled to certification; submit the renewal application and renewal fee.
Criminal History
Provide documentation of criminal-history check submission where required; COMAR .10D selects September or October birth months in 2026.
Expiration
Two-year renewal cycle, expiration on the 28th day of the birth month, with the odd/even birth-year schedule and 30-day grace period in COMAR .10.
Lapse
A lapse of 1 year or more requires criminal-history checks before reinstatement.
Practice Alternative
Provide proof of 16 hours of compensated nursing assistant practice in the 2 years immediately preceding expiration. If not met, CNA-I must pass the competency evaluation; CNA-II must complete a nursing assistant training program. The practice exemption is an applicant condition and does not remove an identified examination from the CNA-I route.
Reinstatement after suspension, revocation or surrender

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Otherwise entitled to certification; submit the renewal application and renewal fee.
Criminal History
Provide documentation of criminal-history check submission where required; COMAR .10D selects September or October birth months in 2026.
Discipline
For suspension or revocation lasting more than 1 year, or more than 1 year after surrender, apply, meet renewal and any Board-regulated reinstatement requirements, and submit criminal-history checks. The Board may reinstate, impose conditions or deny reinstatement; shorter suspensions remain governed by their Board orders.
Expiration
Two-year renewal cycle, expiration on the 28th day of the birth month, with the odd/even birth-year schedule and 30-day grace period in COMAR .10.
Practice Alternative
Provide proof of 16 hours of compensated nursing assistant practice in the 2 years immediately preceding expiration. If not met, CNA-I must pass the competency evaluation; CNA-II must complete a nursing assistant training program. The practice exemption is an applicant condition and does not remove an identified examination from the CNA-I route.
Administrative redesignation of March 31, 2026 CNA/GNA
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continued Practice
Maintain active certification; the administrative change allows continued practice in any setting and entails no new examination.
Prior Certification
Certified as CNA/GNA on March 31, 2026; the Board changes the existing certificate title and retains the certificate number.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation from medical inactive status

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Otherwise entitled to certification; submit the renewal application and renewal fee.
Criminal History
Provide documentation of criminal-history check submission where required; COMAR .10D selects September or October birth months in 2026.
Expiration
Two-year renewal cycle, expiration on the 28th day of the birth month, with the odd/even birth-year schedule and 30-day grace period in COMAR .10.
Medical Evidence
Provide documentation satisfactory to the Board that the medical condition that caused inactive status no longer exists.
Practice Alternative
Provide proof of 16 hours of compensated nursing assistant practice in the 2 years immediately preceding expiration. If not met, CNA-I must pass the competency evaluation; CNA-II must complete a nursing assistant training program. The practice exemption is an applicant condition and does not remove an identified examination from the CNA-I route.
Renewal

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Otherwise entitled to certification; submit the renewal application and renewal fee.
Criminal History
Provide documentation of criminal-history check submission where required; COMAR .10D selects September or October birth months in 2026.
Expiration
Two-year renewal cycle, expiration on the 28th day of the birth month, with the odd/even birth-year schedule and 30-day grace period in COMAR .10.
Practice Alternative
Provide proof of 16 hours of compensated nursing assistant practice in the 2 years immediately preceding expiration. If not met, CNA-I must pass the competency evaluation; CNA-II must complete a nursing assistant training program. The practice exemption is an applicant condition and does not remove an identified examination from the CNA-I route.
CNA II conversion to CNA I

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Conversion Training
Complete an approved nursing assistant training program, not an acute care program (§8–6A–05(c)(5) and FAQ 10). COMAR .05E refers generally to .05A, but the specific statute controls the training alternative.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Prior Certification
Hold the existing CNA-II certificate.
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Initial certification — foreign educated nursing graduate

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education
A Board-approved vendor’s transcript evaluation must demonstrate a nursing-education portion meeting the Board’s nursing assistant training standards (COMAR 10.39.01.06A(2)(d)).
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Vendor Documents
Credentia Eligibility Criteria A-1, Graduate Nurse — Foreign, also asks for current foreign nurse licensure, preapproval to take NCLEX and the Board’s Authorization to Test. Those are vendor applicant conditions, not examination leaves of this nursing assistant profession.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Initial certification — United States nursing education graduate

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education
Complete qualifying approved nursing education and provide the official transcript required by COMAR 10.39.01.06A(2)(c).
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Vendor Documents
Credentia Eligibility Criteria A-1, Graduate Nurse, asks for a copy of the diploma or degree.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Initial certification — currently enrolled nursing student

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education
Complete the portion of an approved nursing education program that the Board determines equivalent to nursing assistant training, including nursing fundamentals, mental health, health assessment, nursing ethics and 42 CFR 483.152(b) content or Board-approved equivalents.
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Transcript
Provide the official school transcript; Credentia requires evidence of the qualifying clinical experience.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Initial certification — former nursing student

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education
No longer enrolled; the Board must accept the completed nursing-education portion as equivalent to nursing assistant training.
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Vendor Prior Education
Credentia Eligibility Criteria A-1, Student Nurse — Inactive, additionally specifies completion within the last 12 months and official transcripts. This is a vendor condition; current COMAR governs the education equivalence.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Initial certification — equivalent service member education

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education
The Board must determine service member training and education substantially equivalent under Health Occupations §1-702; submit supporting completion documentation.
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Timing Exception
COMAR 10.39.01.07B excepts service members from its stated 24-month evaluation interval.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Initial certification — prior COVID 19 temporary nurse aide experience

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Employer Verification
Employer attestation must be completed by the applicant, supervising/instructing RN and administrator or director of nursing.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Prior Temporary Aide Practice
Prior practice without certification during the COVID-19 federal waiver is required; this is a prior-work qualification, not a new temporary license.
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Training Equivalence
Complete the Board-recognized 8-hour temporary-aide training and examination program, 100 hours of qualifying on-the-job training in an eligible facility and an additional 160 hours of competent work; supplement any missing required training. The historical temporary-aide training examination is a training condition, not a current registered nursing assistant competency exam.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.

Temporary Practice Certificate — Nursing Assistant

Temporary nursing assistant practice certificate issued at Board discretion after the appropriate certification qualifications are met; 90 days with up to a further 90 days while criminal-history information is pending.

Licensing authority: Maryland Board of Nursing

Temporary practice certificate — Initial certification — approved acute care nursing assistant training

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education
Successfully complete a Board-approved acute care nursing assistant training program; this qualifies the applicant to sit the nursing assistant competency evaluation under §8–6A–05(c)(3)(ii).
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Temporary Eligibility
Board discretion; satisfy the appropriate certification requirements, have no criminal record and no prior health-professional disciplinary action.
Temporary Term
90 days from issuance; up to an additional 90 days while criminal-history information is pending.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Temporary practice certificate — Initial certification — approved nursing assistant training

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education
Successfully complete a Board-approved nursing assistant training program; the program coordinator or faculty must verify completion.
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Temporary Eligibility
Board discretion; satisfy the appropriate certification requirements, have no criminal record and no prior health-professional disciplinary action.
Temporary Term
90 days from issuance; up to an additional 90 days while criminal-history information is pending.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Temporary practice certificate — medicine aide federal facility experience
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Employment Experience
Current employment and 2 years full-time CNA-I experience in a 42 CFR Part 483 facility.
Prior Certification
Current active CNA-I certification in good standing.
Temporary Eligibility
Meet appropriate CMA qualifications to the Board’s satisfaction; no criminal record or health-professional disciplinary action.
Temporary Term
90 days with up to an additional 90 days while criminal-history information is pending.
Training
Positive employer director-of-nursing recommendation and successful completion of the Board-approved 60-hour CMA course; submit the completion certificate.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary practice certificate — medicine aide maryland facility experience
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Employment Experience
Current employment and 1 year full-time CNA-I experience in a Maryland COMAR 10.07.02 facility.
Prior Certification
Current active CNA-I certification in good standing.
Temporary Eligibility
Meet appropriate CMA qualifications to the Board’s satisfaction; no criminal record or health-professional disciplinary action.
Temporary Term
90 days with up to an additional 90 days while criminal-history information is pending.
Training
Positive employer director-of-nursing recommendation and successful completion of the Board-approved 60-hour CMA course; submit the completion certificate.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary practice certificate — Initial certification by endorsement / reciprocity
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the Board application, fee, identification and required criminal-history checks under COMAR 10.39.01.04 and .06B. The Board fact sheet requires active OBRA-compliant registry status, proof of fingerprinting and the current registry certificate/card.
Competency Evidence
The specific endorsement pathway in §8–6A–06 and COMAR .05B relies on equivalent current certification and training; Credentia A-4 expressly excuses the NNAAP. Another jurisdiction’s own examinations are not leaves of this route.
Eligibility
No abuse, neglect or misappropriation record, disqualifying conduct or pending or prior disciplinary action.
General Board Statement
Board FAQ 11 states: "Yes. After April 1, 2026, all applicants for CNA certification must take the nursing assistant competency evaluation." This general implementing statement is retained for applicants; the specific statutory and regulatory endorsement pathway and current vendor’s express exemption define the route.
Prior Certification
Current certification in good standing from a United States state or territory with essentially similar certification requirements; verification must come directly from the appropriate authority.
Temporary Eligibility
Board discretion; satisfy the appropriate certification requirements, have no criminal record and no prior health-professional disciplinary action.
Temporary Term
90 days from issuance; up to an additional 90 days while criminal-history information is pending.
Training
Previously completed training must meet Maryland’s approved-program standards; submit the certificate of completion directly from the appropriate authority.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Extension of an existing temporary practice certificate
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing Certificate
Already hold the temporary practice certificate.
Pending Check
Awaiting completion of criminal-history record information; the Board may extend the existing certificate up to another 90 days. No new examination is specified for the extension.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary practice certificate — CNA II conversion to CNA I

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Conversion Training
Complete an approved nursing assistant training program, not an acute care program (§8–6A–05(c)(5) and FAQ 10). COMAR .05E refers generally to .05A, but the specific statute controls the training alternative.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Prior Certification
Hold the existing CNA-II certificate.
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Temporary Eligibility
Board discretion; satisfy the appropriate certification requirements, have no criminal record and no prior health-professional disciplinary action.
Temporary Term
90 days from issuance; up to an additional 90 days while criminal-history information is pending.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Temporary practice certificate — Initial certification — foreign educated nursing graduate

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education
A Board-approved vendor’s transcript evaluation must demonstrate a nursing-education portion meeting the Board’s nursing assistant training standards (COMAR 10.39.01.06A(2)(d)).
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Temporary Eligibility
Board discretion; satisfy the appropriate certification requirements, have no criminal record and no prior health-professional disciplinary action.
Temporary Term
90 days from issuance; up to an additional 90 days while criminal-history information is pending.
Vendor Documents
Credentia Eligibility Criteria A-1, Graduate Nurse — Foreign, also asks for current foreign nurse licensure, preapproval to take NCLEX and the Board’s Authorization to Test. Those are vendor applicant conditions, not examination leaves of this nursing assistant profession.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Temporary practice certificate — Initial certification — United States nursing education graduate

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education
Complete qualifying approved nursing education and provide the official transcript required by COMAR 10.39.01.06A(2)(c).
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Temporary Eligibility
Board discretion; satisfy the appropriate certification requirements, have no criminal record and no prior health-professional disciplinary action.
Temporary Term
90 days from issuance; up to an additional 90 days while criminal-history information is pending.
Vendor Documents
Credentia Eligibility Criteria A-1, Graduate Nurse, asks for a copy of the diploma or degree.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Temporary practice certificate — Initial certification — currently enrolled nursing student

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education
Complete the portion of an approved nursing education program that the Board determines equivalent to nursing assistant training, including nursing fundamentals, mental health, health assessment, nursing ethics and 42 CFR 483.152(b) content or Board-approved equivalents.
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Temporary Eligibility
Board discretion; satisfy the appropriate certification requirements, have no criminal record and no prior health-professional disciplinary action.
Temporary Term
90 days from issuance; up to an additional 90 days while criminal-history information is pending.
Transcript
Provide the official school transcript; Credentia requires evidence of the qualifying clinical experience.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Temporary practice certificate — Initial certification — former nursing student

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education
No longer enrolled; the Board must accept the completed nursing-education portion as equivalent to nursing assistant training.
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Temporary Eligibility
Board discretion; satisfy the appropriate certification requirements, have no criminal record and no prior health-professional disciplinary action.
Temporary Term
90 days from issuance; up to an additional 90 days while criminal-history information is pending.
Vendor Prior Education
Credentia Eligibility Criteria A-1, Student Nurse — Inactive, additionally specifies completion within the last 12 months and official transcripts. This is a vendor condition; current COMAR governs the education equivalence.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Temporary practice certificate — Initial certification — equivalent service member education

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education
The Board must determine service member training and education substantially equivalent under Health Occupations §1-702; submit supporting completion documentation.
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Temporary Eligibility
Board discretion; satisfy the appropriate certification requirements, have no criminal record and no prior health-professional disciplinary action.
Temporary Term
90 days from issuance; up to an additional 90 days while criminal-history information is pending.
Timing Exception
COMAR 10.39.01.07B excepts service members from its stated 24-month evaluation interval.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.
Temporary practice certificate — Initial certification — prior COVID 19 temporary nurse aide experience

At least one of the following alternatives:

  • All of the following:

  • All of the following:

    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test (practice unavailable)
    • Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test (assessment without a question bank)
Application
Submit the Board-required application and the applicable fee. Supply verification from the training coordinator, nursing school or other appropriate authority required by COMAR 10.39.01.06.
Application Timing Rule
COMAR 10.39.01.06A(4) states: "An applicant shall submit an application for initial certification after 24 months of the date of completion of an approved nursing assistant training program, an approved acute care nursing assistant training program, or portion of an approved nursing education program." A(5) requires retraining if A(4) is not met. The published wording is retained literally.
Criminal History
Submit State and federal criminal-history checks, fingerprints, required payments and written proof. Under COMAR 10.39.01.04, provide requested court records and explanations; complete the application and supplementary documents within 12 months or it is abandoned.
Education Assessment
Where completion of a Board-approved nursing assistant course is required, COMAR 10.39.02.07 requires the program’s own objective written final (at least 75 percent) and clinical competence. These curriculum-completion assessments are training conditions; the sources do not identify one independently registered statewide course-final examination.
Employer Verification
Employer attestation must be completed by the applicant, supervising/instructing RN and administrator or director of nursing.
Evaluation Timing Rule
Except for service members, COMAR 10.39.01.07B states: "an individual shall sit for a nursing assistant competency evaluation after 24 months of meeting the educational requirements"; .07C also uses "after 24 months" in its retraining provision.
Minimum Age
At least 16 years old for nursing assistant certification (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(v)).
Moral Character
Good moral character; no conduct that would support denial or discipline, no abuse, neglect or misappropriation findings, and no pending or prior disqualifying disciplinary record (§8–6A–05(c)(1)(iv), (c)(4)).
Prior Temporary Aide Practice
Prior practice without certification during the COVID-19 federal waiver is required; this is a prior-work qualification, not a new temporary license.
Retesting
COMAR 10.39.01.07D permits four attempts, requires at least 45 calendar days between attempts, and requires a new approved program after four failures.
Temporary Eligibility
Board discretion; satisfy the appropriate certification requirements, have no criminal record and no prior health-professional disciplinary action.
Temporary Term
90 days from issuance; up to an additional 90 days while criminal-history information is pending.
Training Equivalence
Complete the Board-recognized 8-hour temporary-aide training and examination program, 100 hours of qualifying on-the-job training in an eligible facility and an additional 160 hours of competent work; supplement any missing required training. The historical temporary-aide training examination is a training condition, not a current registered nursing assistant competency exam.
Vendor Testing Window
Headmaster’s April 2026 handbook, page 29, requires passage of both tests within 24 months of program completion and retraining if testing is not completed within that period. This conflicts with the literal "after 24 months" language in COMAR; no unsupported correction of either text is made.

Maryland Nursing Assistant Knowledge Test

Examination outline
  • Aging Process and Restorative Care
  • Basic Nursing Skills
  • Care Impaired
  • Communication
  • Data Collection
  • Disease Process
  • Infection Control
  • Mental Health
  • Personal Care
  • Resident Rights
  • Role and Responsibility
  • Safety
Examination sources

Maryland Nursing Assistant Skill Test

This assessment does not have a question bank.

Examination sources

National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Skills Evaluation

This assessment does not have a question bank.

Provider
Credentia Nurse Aide LLC (develops and manages the NNAAP exam); administered by Credentia at test centers
Format
Performance evaluation at a test center, scored and retaken separately from the Written (or Oral) Examination: the candidate performs five skills on a candidate volunteer acting as the client and is rated by a Nurse Aide Evaluator; each skill is scored Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory and all five must be Satisfactory to pass
Time limit
30 minutes
Examination sources

NNAAP Written (or Oral) Examination

Provider
Credentia Nurse Aide LLC (develops and manages the NNAAP exam); administered by Credentia online or at test centers
Format
Multiple-choice examination taken online or at a test center, in English or Spanish, scored and retaken separately from the Skills Evaluation; candidates may choose the Oral Examination form, in which the multiple-choice questions are read aloud by recorded voice (MP3 player at test centers) and ten reading comprehension (word recognition) questions are added, and both Oral sections must be passed
Exam questions
70 multiple-choice items: 60 scored and 10 pretest (non-scored); the Oral form has 60 multiple-choice items and 10 reading comprehension (word recognition) items
Time limit
2 hours
Examination outline
  • I. Physical Care Skills — A. Activities of Daily Living (22% of the exam; 13 questions) (22%)
    • Activities of Daily Living — 1. Hygiene
    • Activities of Daily Living — 2. Dressing and Grooming
    • Activities of Daily Living — 3. Nutrition and Hydration
    • Activities of Daily Living — 4. Elimination
    • Activities of Daily Living — 5. Rest/Sleep/Comfort
  • I. Physical Care Skills — B. Basic Nursing Skills (35% of the exam; 21 questions) (35%)
    • Basic Nursing Skills — 1. Infection Control
    • Basic Nursing Skills — 2. Safety/Emergency
    • Basic Nursing Skills — 3. Therapeutic/Technical Procedures
    • Basic Nursing Skills — 4. Data Collection and Reporting
  • I. Physical Care Skills — C. Self-Care and Independence (7% of the exam; 4 questions) (7%)
    • Self-Care and Independence
  • II. Psychosocial Care Skills — A. Emotional and Mental Health Needs (8% of the exam; 5 questions) (8%)
    • Emotional and Mental Health Needs
  • II. Psychosocial Care Skills — B. Spiritual and Cultural Needs (2% of the exam; 1 question) (2%)
    • Spiritual and Cultural Needs
  • III. Role of the Nurse Aide — A. Communication (7% of the exam; 4 questions) (7%)
    • Communication
  • III. Role of the Nurse Aide — B. Client Rights (8% of the exam; 5 questions) (8%)
    • Client Rights
  • III. Role of the Nurse Aide — C. Legal and Ethical Behavior (5% of the exam; 3 questions) (5%)
    • Legal and Ethical Behavior
  • III. Role of the Nurse Aide — D. Member of the Health Care Team (6% of the exam; 4 questions) (6%)
    • Member of the Health Care Team
Examination sources