Initial CNA Certification Requirements
The following steps are the initial CNA certification requirements in the state of Montana:
- Successful completion of a CNA program approved by the state composed of twenty five (25) to thirty (30) hours worth of clinical time and forty five (45) to fifty (50) hours worth of classroom time.
- Get a passing score on the competency evaluation from a state-approved vendor, Headmaster.
Post-training Certification Advice:
- Applicants are encouraged to partake in the competency evaluation within 6 months of completion to avoid expiration.
- Applicants are given 3 chances to take the competency exam.
- Self paying applicants will incur fees excluding the testing application.
Useful links
- Nurse Aide Registry Applications
- Nurse Aide Programs
- CNA skills checklist
- Nursing student applications
- FAQ
- Headmaster Candidate handbook
- Testing application form 1101
- Payment and scheduling form
- Test sites list
- Headmaster website
Nurse Aide Registry Online Verification
In cases wherein an online verification of a CNA certification status is needed, you may follow this link (https://cna.hhs.mt.gov/datamart/selSearchType.do) for further details.
Renewing CNA Certifications in Montana
Nurse aide licenses are valid for 2 years in the state of Montana. The expiration date is the last day of the 24th month. Renewal procedure requires the submission of an application form to Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services. Bear in mind that an applicant must participate in a compensated nursing-related work within the last two (2) years.
Lapsed Certificate Reinstatement in Montana
A lapsed certificate is not eligible for renewal. Thus, a reinstatement is required which can be accomplished by:
- Enrollment in a training program approved by the state of Montana.
- Pass in CNA examinations
- Interstate endorsement based on an active out-of-state certificate
Transferring an Out-of-State CNA Certification
A nurse aide whose certificate has been obtained from another state can have it transferred to the state of Montana via interstate endorsement by submitting an application with a recommendation from the state of origin. It takes about ten (10) to fifteen (15) days for an applicant to be recognized by the registry. An applicant can work for thirty (30) days while the transfer is being processed provided that he/she is in good standing from the origin state.
Interstate Endorsement Application
If you have additional questions, you may contact the Montana Nurse Aide Registry at:
Montana Nurse Assistant Registry
Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
2401 Colonial Drive, 2nd Floor
PO Box 202953
Helena MT 59620-2953
Phone:(406) 444-4980
Fax:(406) 444-3456
Email: [email protected]