Michigan — sleeping bear dunes lakeshore

Michigan Certified Nursing Assistant License

Michigan LARA

Total Fee
$20
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available

What You'll Need

  • Government-Issued Photo ID — A valid, unexpired driver's license, state ID, or passport is required for exam admission and identity verification.
  • Social Security Number — Required for identity verification and background check processing.
  • Training Completion Certificate — Proof of completing a state-approved training program within the last 24 months.
  • Fingerprint Background Check Request — If required by the employer or LARA, a completed Live Scan Fingerprint Background Check Request form (RI-030).

How to Apply

  1. Complete State-Approved Training ▾
    Successfully complete a Michigan-approved Nurse Aide Training Program (NATP) consisting of at least 75 hours of instruction.
    Find Training Programs
  2. Register for Competency Exam ▾
    Create an account on the Headmaster TMU platform to schedule and pay for your written and clinical skills examinations.
    Register for Exam
  3. Pass the CNA Examination ▾
    Successfully pass both the Knowledge (Written/Oral) and Clinical Skills portions of the exam. Results are typically uploaded to the registry within 24-48 hours.
  4. Create a MiLogin for Business Account ▾
    Register for a State of Michigan MiLogin for Business account, which is the gateway to the MI-NATES system.
    Create MiLogin Account
  5. Request MI-NATES Access ▾
    Log into MiLogin, search for the 'MI-NATES' application (Michigan Nurse Aide, Training, and Enforcement System), and request access to set up your profile.
  6. Submit Application and Pay Fee ▾
    Complete the online Nurse Aide Application within MI-NATES and pay the $40 biennial registration fee.
Total Fee
$20
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available

Transfer License

Contact the Michigan LARA for current transfer requirements.

Apply to transfer

Steps

  1. Verify Eligibility ▾
    Ensure you hold an active CNA certification in good standing in another state that Michigan recognizes for reciprocity.
    Check Reciprocity List
  2. Create MiLogin and MI-NATES Profile ▾
    Register for a MiLogin for Business account and request access to the MI-NATES system.
    MiLogin Portal
  3. Submit Reciprocity Application ▾
    Select the 'Reciprocity' option in MI-NATES, provide your out-of-state certification details, and pay the $40 fee.
  4. Verification of Certification ▾
    Michigan LARA will verify your status with the out-of-state registry. Ensure your current state allows for electronic verification or follow their specific outgoing reciprocity steps.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Michigan LARA

Keeping Your License Active

Michigan Certified Nursing Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Michigan LARA for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Renew on the board site

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$20
Endorsement application$20

Slow Downs

Name Mismatch ▾
If the name on your ID does not exactly match the name in the MI-NATES or Headmaster system, you may be denied entry to the exam or experience registration delays.
Incomplete MI-NATES Profile ▾
Failing to request access to MI-NATES after creating a MiLogin account prevents the state from issuing your certificate even after passing the exam.
Background Check Processing ▾
Delays in fingerprint results from the Michigan State Police or FBI can stall the final approval of your registration.

Questions

How much does it cost to become a CNA in Michigan? ▾
The registration fee is $40 biennially. The competency examination fee is typically $175, paid to the testing vendor (Headmaster).
How often do I need to renew my Michigan CNA certificate? ▾
Certificates must be renewed every two years via the MI-NATES system. You must have worked at least 8 hours for pay in a nursing-related role during the 24-month period.
Are there continuing education (CE) requirements for Michigan CNAs? ▾
Yes, starting March 23, 2026, CNAs will be required to complete 12 hours of annual continuing education (24 hours per renewal cycle) to maintain registration.
What is MI-NATES? ▾
MI-NATES (Michigan Nurse Aide, Training, and Enforcement System) is the official online portal for all nurse aide applications, renewals, and registry management in Michigan.

Board Info

Michigan LARA
Phone517-335-9300
Sources
State statutes