CNA Classes in Maryland
Start your CNA career in Maryland with confidence. Explore accredited CNA classes, certification requirements, and career opportunities across the state.
Training Hours
State-approved CNA programs require a minimum of 100 hours to qualify for certification.
Program Costs
CNA Training costs range from free to $2,895+, with financial aid or employer support at some schools.
CNA Salary
Certified Nursing Assistants in Maryland earn an average annual salary of $40,770 based on the latest data.
Verified Sources
This page is backed by trusted sources, including state agencies and labor data reports.
Why Become a CNA in Maryland?
Maryland presents a promising landscape for Certified Nursing Assistant careers in 2025. With the state’s senior population expanding by 35.58% over the past decade, the demand for qualified caregivers continues to rise across healthcare facilities statewide. Maryland CNAs earn competitive wages averaging $16.90 per hour ($35,140 annually), with many positions in Southern Maryland offering $16.00-$19.00 hourly rates. Whether you’re starting your healthcare journey or seeking a meaningful career change, Maryland offers accessible training programs, strong advancement pathways, and the chance to make a real difference in communities facing critical healthcare staffing challenges.
Find & Compare CNA Classes in Maryland
You’ve learned why becoming a CNA is a smart move — now explore training options near you. Use the ZIP code search or browse our regularly updated list of accredited CNA programs in Maryland to compare costs, durations, and locations. We review this directory frequently to ensure accuracy, and all programs listed are verified through official school and state sources.
| School Name | Telephone | Street | City | State | Zip Code | Cost | Duration | Details Page |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harford Community College | (443) 412-2000 | 401 Thomas Run Rd | Bel Air | MD | 21015 | $1,953 | Contact for Detail | View Details |
| Howard Community College | (443) 518-1000 | 10901 Little Patuxent Parkway | Columbia | MD | 21044 | $2,240 | 5 Weeks | View Details |
| Anne Arundel Community College | (410) 777-2325 | 101 College Pkwy | Arnold | MD | 21012 | $2,856 | Contact for Detail | View Details |
| Quality First Career Center, Inc | (301) 270-5105 | 6475 New Hampshire Ave Suite #501 | Hyattsville | MD | 20783 | Contact for Detail | Contact for Detail | View Details |
| Allegany College of Maryland | (301) 784-5529 | 101 College Parkway | Cumberland | MD | 21012 | Contact for Detail | One Semester | View Details |
Disclaimer: Program costs, class schedules, and durations listed are based on information publicly available from each school’s official website at the time of publication. Details may change without notice. We recommend contacting the school directly to confirm the most accurate and up-to-date information. CNAClasses.com is not affiliated with the programs listed and does not guarantee pricing, availability, or course details. If you notice outdated or incorrect information, please contact us so we can make updates.
Not Sure Where to Start?
We’ll walk you through every step — from CNA classes to certification.
How to Become a CNA in Maryland
Starting your journey as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Maryland opens doors to a rewarding healthcare career with strong job stability. The Maryland Board of Nursing oversees the certification process, which includes completing an approved training program, passing competency exams, and registering with the state.
Maryland has a unique two-tier certification system: the basic CNA credential and the Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) certification required for working in nursing homes. Most programs require at least 100 hours of training and can be completed in 4-8 weeks, with costs typically ranging from $500 to $2,500 depending on the provider. By understanding the requirements and following the steps below, you’ll be well-positioned to launch your CNA career in the Old Line State.
1) Eligibility Requirements for CNA Training in Maryland
Before enrolling in a CNA program in Maryland, you must meet several prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years old for standard programs (some programs may accept students as young as 16 if enrolled in high school)
- Must have a high school diploma or GED (required by most programs)
- Must pass a criminal background check with fingerprint analysis
- Must complete required health screenings:
- Tuberculosis (PPD/TB) testing
- Immunization records (MMR, Hepatitis B)
- COVID-19 vaccination
- Seasonal flu vaccine
- Additional requirements may include:
- Social Security Number or Tax ID number
- Reading assessment test (some programs require an Accuplacer score of 230 or higher)
Foreign-trained applicants may need to provide translated documents and demonstrate English proficiency, as the certification exam is only offered in English.
2) CNA Training Hour Requirements in Maryland
Maryland has specific requirements for CNA training programs to ensure all nursing assistants receive standardized education:
- Total of at least 100 hours of combined training required, consisting of:
- Classroom instruction covering nursing techniques, infection prevention, patient advocacy, communication, and emergency protocols
- Clinical training in actual healthcare settings
- Core curriculum topics include:
- Basic nursing skills
- Infection control procedures
- Patient rights and dignity
- Communication techniques
- Personal care skills
- Safety protocols
- Vital signs monitoring
Most programs take between 4 and 8 weeks to complete, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. While theoretical portions may be available in hybrid formats, all clinical hours must be completed in-person at approved healthcare facilities.
3) Complete an Accredited CNA Training Program in Maryland
Selecting a quality CNA training program approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing is an essential step in your certification journey:
- Training is offered through various approved providers:
- Community colleges
- Vocational schools
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Long-term care facilities
Program costs vary by provider but typically include:
- Tuition ($500-$2,500)
- Textbooks and study materials
- Background check fees
- Uniform costs
- Medical requirements like TB tests
Example costs from Prince George’s Community College:
- NRC-300 CNA Theory: $1,000
- NRC-301 CNA Clinical: $600
- Additional expenses for textbooks, background checks, drug tests, and licensing fees
Financial assistance options include:
- Financial aid through participating institutions
- Scholarships through individual schools
- Employer-sponsored training (some healthcare facilities pay for training in exchange for employment commitment)
- Payment plans offered by many training providers
4) Pass the CNA Certification Exam in Maryland
After completing your training, Maryland’s certification system has unique features:
- Maryland has two certification levels:
- CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant): Entry-level credential that doesn’t require passing a state/national exam
- GNA (Geriatric Nursing Assistant): Required for working in nursing homes; requires passing the NNAAP exam
- The NNAAP Examination (for GNA certification):
- Administered by Pearson VUE (Maryland candidates register through American Red Cross)
- Written exam: 70 multiple-choice questions in English with 2-hour time limit
- Oral option: Available for ESL candidates; 60 multiple-choice questions plus 10 reading comprehension questions
- Skills evaluation: Must perform 5 randomly selected nursing assistant skills within 30 minutes
- Passing requirements:
- Score of at least 70% on written exam
- Complete 4 of 5 skills correctly
On exam day, bring government-issued photo identification and dress appropriately. Arrive early to complete registration procedures and prepare mentally for both portions of the exam.
5) Register with the Maryland CNA Registry
The final step is being listed on the Maryland Nurse Aide Registry:
- After passing your exam, you must apply to the Maryland Board of Nursing:
- Submit a completed application form
- Include criminal history background check results
- Pay the $20 application fee
- Submit required documentation (official transcripts, passport photo)
- Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks
- You can verify your listing by contacting the registry or checking their online portal
Ready to Start CNA Training in Maryland?
Now that you know the steps, it’s time to take the first one. Use our directory to find accredited CNA programs near you and begin your training with confidence.
Key Maryland CNA Certification Contacts & Guidelines
Maryland offers a wealth of resources to support your CNA career in a state where healthcare professionals earn competitive wages averaging $20.00 per hour. From maintaining your certification to exploring advancement opportunities in the Old Line State’s growing healthcare sector, this comprehensive guide connects you with essential tools and official contacts to help you navigate every aspect of your professional journey.
Maryland Nurse Aide Registry
The Maryland Board of Nursing manages the state’s Nurse Aide Registry, which is your primary resource for certification matters in Maryland.
Contact Information:
- Website: https://health.maryland.gov/mbon/pages/nursing-assistant-certification.aspx
- Phone: (410) 585-1900
- Email: [email protected]
The registry provides services such as:
- Verifying certification status
- Processing renewal applications
- Handling license transfers
- Investigating complaints
- Maintaining a searchable database of certified nurse aides
To check your certification status, visit the Maryland Board of Nursing License Verification portal: https://lookup.mbon.org/verification/
Certification Renewal in Maryland
Maintaining your CNA certification in Maryland requires adherence to specific guidelines:
Renewal Requirements:
- Certification validity: 24 months
- Renewal frequency: Every 2 years
- Employment requirement: Must work at least 16 hours as a nurse aide within the 24-month certification period
- Continuing education: 16 hours of in-service education within the 2-year certification period
- Renewal process:
- Submit renewal application online through the Maryland Board of Nursing portal
- Provide verification of employment
- Submit proof of completed continuing education hours
- Pay the renewal fee ($40)
- Lapsed certification: If your certification lapses, you may need to complete a competency evaluation or retake the CNA exam if expired more than 24 months
For renewal forms and detailed instructions, visit: https://health.maryland.gov/mbon/Pages/olrenew-index.aspx
CNA Reciprocity in Maryland
If you’re a CNA certified in another state and wish to work in Maryland, follow these steps for reciprocity:
- Verify current certification in your original state
- Complete the Maryland Application for Certification by Endorsement
- Submit required documentation:
- Copy of your current CNA certification
- Proof of completing a training program that meets federal requirements
- Verification of employment as a CNA within the last 24 months
- State-issued ID or driver’s license
- Criminal background check results
- Pay the application fee ($20)
- Mail your application and documents to the Maryland Board of Nursing
Allow 4-6 weeks for processing. Maryland may require additional training if your original program doesn’t meet state standards.
For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://health.maryland.gov/mbon/documents/nossn/cna%20end%20nossn.pdf
Continuing Education Opportunities
Maryland requires 16 hours of continuing education for CNA renewal. Here are resources to help you meet these requirements:
Education Providers:
- Maryland Community College System
- Website: https://mdacc.org/
- Offers healthcare-related courses at campuses throughout the state
- Maryland Health Care Education Institute
- Website: https://www.mhei.org/
- Provides workshops and online courses specifically for CNAs
- American Red Cross of Maryland
- Website: https://www.redcross.org/local/maryland-delaware.html
- Provides healthcare training and certification courses
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a CNA in Maryland
Certain criminal convictions can disqualify you from becoming a CNA in Maryland, particularly those involving abuse, neglect, or violent crimes. The Maryland Board of Nursing conducts mandatory background checks, and convictions for patient abuse, theft, drug offenses, or fraud may prevent certification. Additionally, providing false information on your application, failing to complete the required training hours, or not passing both portions of the competency evaluation will result in disqualification.
No, you cannot take the CNA test without completing approved training in Maryland. The state requires all candidates to complete a state-approved training program before being eligible to sit for the certification exam. There are no testing-only options or experience substitutions allowed under Maryland regulations. Even healthcare professionals with related experience must complete the formal CNA training program to qualify for the certification examination.
You cannot complete your entire CNA training online in Maryland. While some programs may offer theoretical portions through distance learning, Maryland requires hands-on clinical training that must be completed in-person at approved healthcare facilities. The state mandates a minimum of 100 hours of training with substantial clinical practice that cannot be fulfilled virtually. Any program advertising fully online CNA certification in Maryland would not meet state requirements for licensure.
In Maryland, you can take the CNA exam up to three times within two years of completing your training program. If you fail either the written or skills portion, you only need to retake the failed component. After three unsuccessful attempts or if two years have passed since your training, you must complete a new CNA training program before being eligible to test again. Each exam attempt requires a separate fee, so it’s important to prepare thoroughly to increase your chances of passing.
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