CNA Classes in Michigan

Before enrolling in a CNA program in Michigan, you must meet several prerequisites:

• No specific minimum age requirement for training, though many schools require students to be at least 17 years old
• No formal education requirement, though some programs may require a high school diploma or GED
• Must pass a criminal background check
• Must pass a drug screening test on the first attempt
• Must complete required health screenings:
  • Negative tuberculosis (TB) test
  • Physical examination confirming ability to perform essential job functions
  • Up-to-date immunizations

Special considerations apply to minors: those under 16 may not be exposed to communicable diseases or bloodborne pathogens, while 16-17 year-olds may work with potential bloodborne pathogen exposure if employers comply with MIOSHA Standard 554.

Michigan has specific requirements for CNA training programs to ensure all nursing assistants receive standardized education:

• Total of 75 training hours required (minimum):
  • At least 16 hours of classroom instruction before any direct resident contact
  • At least 16 additional hours devoted to skills training
  • Remaining hours divided between classroom and clinical practice
• Core curriculum topics include:
  • Basic nursing skills
  • Infection control procedures
  • Patient rights and dignity
  • Communication techniques
  • Personal care skills
  • Safety protocols
  • Vital signs monitoring

Students must achieve a minimum overall grade of 75% for theory portions and demonstrate satisfactory completion of laboratory and clinical competencies. The curriculum follows federal standards with Michigan-specific requirements.

Finding an approved CNA training program is an essential step in your certification journey:

• Training is offered through various providers approved by LARA:
  • Community colleges like Schoolcraft College (7-week program)
  • Vocational schools
  • Hospitals and medical centers
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Specialized training centers like Michigan Healthcare Academy

Program costs vary by provider but typically include:

• Tuition ($500-$2,000)
• Textbooks and study materials
• Background check fees
• Uniform costs
• Medical requirements like TB tests
• CPR certification

Some programs offer financial aid options or payment plans, and certain employers may cover training costs in exchange for employment commitments. Workforce development programs may also provide funding in some areas.

After completing your training, you must pass the competency examination administered by Headmaster:

• The exam consists of two parts:
  • Written/oral knowledge test: Multiple-choice questions on medical terminology, CNA roles, anatomy, etc.
  • Clinical skills test: Hands-on demonstration of nursing assistant skills
• Important exam details:
  • First-time test takers must complete both parts on the same day
  • Minimum passing score of 70% required on both exam components
  • Three attempts allowed to pass the complete test
  • If you fail one section, you only need to retest on that section
  • If all three attempts are unsuccessful, you must complete retraining before applying again
  • 30-day waiting period typically required between failed attempts and retesting

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.

The final step is registering with the Michigan Nurse Aide Registry:

• Application process:
  • Create a MILogin account at michigan.gov
  • Request access to MI-NATES (Michigan Nurse Aide, Training, and Enforcement System)
  • Set up user profile in MI-NATES
  • Submit nurse aide application through MI-NATES
  • Pay the $40 registration fee
• You’ll need to provide:
  • Proof of completed training program
  • Verification of passed competency examination
  • Any additional information requested to review findings against applicants

The Michigan Nurse Aide Registry, managed by Prometric on behalf of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), is your primary resource for certification matters in the state.

Contact Information:

• Website: https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bchs/nurse-aide-registry
• Phone: (800) 752-4724
• 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 Michigan Nurse Aide Registry Search portal: https://www.michigan.gov/som/government/state-license-search

Maintaining your CNA certification in Michigan requires adherence to specific guidelines:

Renewal Requirements:

• Certification validity: 24 months
• Renewal frequency: Every 2 years
• Employment requirement: Must work at least 8 hours as a nurse aide within the 24-month certification period
• Continuing education: No formal continuing education requirements for basic renewal
• Renewal process:
  • Your employer must submit verification of employment through the Michigan Nurse Aide Registry
  • CNAs are responsible for ensuring their employer submits the verification
  • No renewal fee required
• 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 information and verification forms, visit: https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bchs/nurse-aide-registry 

If you’re a CNA certified in another state and wish to work in Michigan, follow these steps for reciprocity:

• Verify current certification in your original state
• Complete the Michigan Nurse Aide Registry Reciprocity Application
• 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
  • Social Security card
• Mail your application and documents to the Michigan Nurse Aide Registry

Allow 2-4 weeks for processing. Michigan does not require additional skills testing for reciprocity applicants with valid certifications.

For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bchs/nurse-aide-registry 

While Michigan doesn’t mandate continuing education for CNA renewal, ongoing learning can enhance your skills and career prospects:

Education Providers:

• Michigan Community College System
  • Website: https://www.mcca.org/
  • Offers healthcare-related courses at campuses throughout the state
• Health Care Association of Michigan
  • Website: https://www.hcam.org/education/calendar-of-events/ 
  • Provides workshops and online courses specifically for CNAs
• Michigan Nurses Association
  • Website: https://www.minurses.org/
  • Offers continuing education opportunities for all nursing professionals
• American Red Cross of Michigan
  • Website: https://www.redcross.org/local/michigan.html
  • Provides healthcare training and certification courses