Massachusetts Department of Health and Human Services
Nurse Aide Registry Program
99 Chauncy Street, 2nd Fl.
Boston, MA 0211
Phone: (617-753-8144)
Phone: (781) 979-4010
Phone: (800) 962-4337 (outside of MA)
Verification: 617-753-8192
Becoming a New CNA in Massachusetts
A CNA applicant will need to complete the following in order be added to the Massachusetts CNA Registry. These are:
- Filling out an application form for Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation Program. Please note that certain fees may apply.
- A training program consisting of 75 hours of clinical and classroom work.
Once the aforementioned requirements have been completed, the applicant’s name can now be added to the Massachusetts CNA Registry.
Useful Links:
- State-approved nurse assistant training programs
- Candidate Guide
- Candidate FAQ
- CNA Testing
- Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry program
- Testing eligibility application for waiver of training
Verifying CNA Certification in Massachusetts
You can use this link https://checkalicense.hhs.state.ma.us/MyLicenseVerification/ to process the verification of your CNA certification status in Massachusetts. Please note that it takes around three weeks to have your verification processed.
Renewal of CNA Certification in Massachusetts
The state of Massachusetts requires its CNAs to renew their certification every two years. The American Red Cross is in charge of informing its CNAs of any pending renewal 2 months prior to expiration. Renewal eligibility is dependent on whether the applicant in question has completed a minimum of 8 hours of paid nursing-related work. The two-year renewal period is based on the last date of employment.
Useful Links:
Reinstating a Lapsed CNA Certificate
In cases where a nurse aide is unable to complete the requirements, namely, working a minimum of 8 hours of paid work within the last two year renewal period, will be required to have their certification reinstated which entails retaking a competency examination.
How to Reinstate Your CNA License
CNA Certification Transfer via Reciprocity
CNAs with a currently active certificate from another state are eligible for transfer via reciprocity provided they’re in good standing. However, CNAs that have already been certified in Massachusetts before will not be considered. Please consult the following links for more details.
