CNA Classes in Montana
Start your CNA career in Montana with confidence. Explore accredited CNA classes, certification requirements, and career opportunities across the state.
Training Hours
State-approved CNA programs require a minimum of 75 hours to qualify for certification.
Program Costs
CNA Training costs range from free to $1,790+, with financial aid or employer support at some schools.
CNA Salary
Certified Nursing Assistants in Montana earn an average annual salary of $40,800 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 Montana?
Montana’s healthcare sector is experiencing remarkable growth, creating abundant opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistants across the state. With an estimated 750 CNA job openings projected each year through 2032, qualified caregivers are in high demand throughout Montana’s diverse healthcare facilities. The state’s aging population is driving increased need for healthcare services, particularly in rural communities where access to care remains a critical challenge. As a CNA in Montana, you’ll earn competitive wages averaging $19.61 per hour ($40,800 annually), with some positions offering up to $28.45 per hour at facilities like Benefis Health System. From the mountains of Western Montana to the plains of the east, your skills as a CNA will be valued, rewarded, and provide a solid foundation for a fulfilling healthcare career.
Find & Compare CNA Classes in Montana
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 Montana 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miles Community College | (406) 874-6189 | 2715 Dickinson Street | Miles City | MT | 59301 | $740 | Contact for Detail | View Details |
| City College at MSU Billings | (406) 247-3055 | 3803 Central Ave | Billings | MT | 59102 | $750 | 3 Weeks | View Details |
| Lifelong Learning Center | (406) 549-8765 | 310 S Curtis St | Missoula | MT | 59801 | $802 | Contact for Detail | View Details |
| Bitterroot College | (406) 375-0100 | 103 South 9th Street | Hamilton | MT | 59840 | $1,790 | Contact for Detail | 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 Montana
Starting a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Montana provides an accessible entry point into healthcare with strong job prospects. The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services manages the certification process through the Montana Nurse Aide Registry, with testing administered by Headmaster/D&S Diversified Technologies.
Montana CNA programs require a minimum of 75 hours of training, with costs typically ranging from $450 to $1,450 depending on the provider. Most programs can be completed in just a few weeks to a few months, with CNAs in Montana earning an average of $20.40 per hour or approximately $40,800 annually. Follow these steps to begin your journey as a Montana CNA.
1) Eligibility Requirements for CNA Training in Montana
Montana makes CNA training accessible to a wide range of candidates:
- Must be at least 16 years old (unlike many states that require applicants to be 18)
- High school diploma or GED may be required by some programs but isn’t mandated by state regulations
- Must pass a criminal background check
- Must meet specific physical health standards, including:
- Ability to stand for extended periods
- Capability to perform tasks involving heavy lifting
- Negative tuberculosis (TB) test
- Additional screening requirements include:
- Fingerprinting
- Drug testing
This flexibility makes the CNA path particularly accessible for those looking to enter healthcare without extensive educational barriers, including high school students interested in healthcare careers.
2) CNA Training Hour Requirements in Montana
Montana has established training standards that align with federal requirements:
- Total of 75 training hours required:
- 50 hours of classroom instruction
- 25 hours of supervised clinical experiences
- Program coursework emphasizes key skills such as:
- Assisting with personal care
- Supporting patient mobility
- Monitoring vital signs
- Developing strong communication techniques
- Infection control practices
- Safety protocols
All training must be completed through state-approved programs, and training completion must be within six months of your test date. Montana offers a unique alternative path: unlike other states, you may be allowed to take the certification exam without completing a training program first. However, if you fail the exam on your first attempt, you must complete the required training through a state-approved program.
3) Complete an Accredited CNA Training Program in Montana
Choosing the right training program will help set you up for success:
- Programs are available through various approved providers:
- Community colleges
- Vocational institutions
- Healthcare organizations
- Specialized training centers
Program costs vary significantly across Montana:
- Montana Tech (Butte): $1,450
- Miles Community College (Miles City): $1,000
- Accelerate Montana (Missoula): $475
- St. John’s United (Billings): $450 including textbooks and materials
Many programs offer financial incentives. For example, St. John’s United will refund the full $450 of class fees over one year if students gain employment with them immediately after course completion and remain in good standing.
Program durations also vary widely:
- St. John’s United: 3 weeks online didactic plus 36 hours of on-site clinical training
- Montana Tech: 1 semester
- Accelerate Montana: 4 weeks plus clinicals
4) Pass the CNA Certification Exam in Montana
After completing your training (or if you’re challenging the exam), you must pass the competency examination administered by D&S Diversified Technologies/Headmaster:
- The exam consists of two parts:
- Knowledge/oral assessment: 72 multiple-choice questions with 90 minutes to complete
- Manual skills test: Begins with hand washing plus four other specified tasks that must be completed within 35 minutes
- A minimum score of 70% is required to pass and achieve certification
- Testing fee: $97
- You have up to three attempts within 6 months to pass the exam
After passing both components, you must complete an online BOUNDS Montana CNA by Exam Application through the Department of Public Health and Human Services portal. For those wishing to challenge the state exam without completing a training program, contact Headmaster at (406) 442-8656.
5) Register with the Montana CNA Registry
The final step in becoming a certified nursing assistant in Montana:
- All Certified Nurse Aide Applications must be submitted online through the BOUNDS portal
- Paper applications are no longer accepted
- Once the Certification Bureau receives passing results from Headmaster, your application will be processed
- You’ll be placed on the Montana Certified Nurse Aide Registry
- To verify your certification status, use the online verification tool through the BOUNDS portal
With your Montana CNA certification, you’ll be qualified to work in various healthcare settings across the state, with excellent earning potential as Montana CNAs earn an average of $20.40 per hour, well above the national average.
For additional information or assistance, contact the Montana Nurse Aide Registry at:
- Phone: (406) 444-4980
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: PO Box 202953, Helena MT 59620-2953
Ready to Start CNA Training in Montana?
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 Montana CNA Certification Contacts & Guidelines
Montana offers unique opportunities for CNAs with competitive wages averaging $20.40 per hour and a growing healthcare sector that serves the state’s aging population. This comprehensive resource hub connects you with essential Montana-specific tools to help maintain your certification, find employment, and advance your career in the Treasure State’s vast healthcare landscape where CNAs play a vital role in rural and urban communities alike.
Montana Nurse Aide Registry
The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) manages the state’s Nurse Aide Registry, which is your primary resource for certification matters in Montana.
Contact Information:
- Website: https://dphhs.mt.gov/qad/Certification/cna
- Phone: (406) 444-4980
- 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 Montana Nurse Aide Registry Search portal: https://mt-reports.com/portal/searchcertificate.aspx
Certification Renewal in Montana
Maintaining your CNA certification in Montana 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 Montana 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://mt-reports.com/portal/CertificateList.aspx
CNA Reciprocity in Montana
If you’re a CNA certified in another state and wish to work in Montana, follow these steps for reciprocity:
- Verify current certification in your original state
- Complete the Montana 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 Montana Nurse Aide Registry
Allow 2-4 weeks for processing. Montana does not require additional skills testing for reciprocity applicants with valid certifications.
For reciprocity forms and instructions, visit: https://mt-reports.com/portal/CertificateRequest.aspx?LicenseTypeID=3755
Continuing Education Opportunities
While Montana doesn’t mandate continuing education for CNA renewal, ongoing learning can enhance your skills and career prospects:
Education Providers:
- Montana University System
- Website: https://mus.edu/
- Offers healthcare-related courses at campuses throughout the state
- Montana Health Care Association
- Website: https://www.mthca.org/services.html
- Provides workshops and online courses specifically for CNAs
- Montana Nurses Association
- Website: https://www.mtnurses.org/
- Offers continuing education opportunities for all nursing professionals
- American Red Cross of Montana
- Website: https://www.redcross.org/local/montana.html
- Provides healthcare training and certification courses
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a CNA in Montana
You cannot complete your entire CNA training online in Montana. While some programs may offer theoretical portions through distance learning, Montana requires hands-on clinical training that must be completed in-person at approved healthcare facilities. The state mandates a minimum of 75 hours of training, including substantial supervised clinical experience, which cannot be fulfilled virtually. Any program advertising fully online CNA certification in Montana would not meet state requirements for licensure.
A Montana CNA license remains valid for two years from the date of issuance. To maintain active status, you must work at least 8 hours as a nursing assistant during the 24-month period and complete any required continuing education. If your certification expires, you’ll need to either retake both the written and skills exams or complete a state-approved reactivation program to reinstate your license, depending on how long it has been inactive.
No, you cannot take the CNA test without completing approved training in Montana. 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 Montana regulations. Even healthcare professionals with related experience must complete the formal CNA training program to qualify for the certification examination.
No, you do not need a high school diploma or GED to become a CNA in Montana. While some training programs may require a diploma as an admission requirement, the Montana Department of Labor and Industry does not mandate this for state certification. The essential requirements focus on completing an approved training program, passing the competency evaluation, and clearing a criminal background check rather than prior educational credentials.
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