Minnesota Certified Nursing Assistant License
Minnesota Dept of Health
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
1 to 2 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
What You'll Need
- Training Completion Certificate — Proof of completing a 75-hour state-approved NATCEP.
- Government-Issued Photo ID — A valid, non-expired, signed U.S. government-issued ID (e.g., Driver's License or Passport) required for exam entry.
- Social Security Number — Required for registry identification and background study processing.
- Recent Pay Stub — Required for renewal or endorsement to prove at least 8 hours of paid nursing-related work in the last 24 months.
How to Apply
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Complete Approved Training ▾Enroll in and successfully complete a Minnesota-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) consisting of at least 75 hours.
View Approved Programs -
Activate TMU Account ▾Once training is completed, your provider will create your account in the Headmaster TestMaster Universe (TMU) system. Log in to verify your demographic information.
Login to TMU -
Register for Exams ▾Schedule and pay for the Knowledge and Skills competency exams through the TMU portal. Fees are approximately $265 for both components.
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Pass Competency Exams ▾Pass both the Knowledge test (74% or higher) and the Skills test (80% or higher on all tasks). You have three attempts for skills and four for knowledge within 24 months.
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Create Registry Account ▾After passing exams, create an account on the official Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry portal to manage your certification and view your certificate number.
Registry Portal -
Verify Registry Status ▾Confirm you are listed as 'Active' on the registry. Employers must verify this status before you can begin working in a licensed facility.
Search Registry
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
1 to 2 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Minnesota Dept of Health for current transfer requirements.
Apply to transferSteps
-
Create Registry Account ▾Register for an account on the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry portal.
Register Online -
Select Endorsement Type ▾Choose 'Interstate Endorsement Candidate' as your registrant type during the application process.
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Upload Out-of-State Credentials ▾Upload a PDF copy of your current, active out-of-state CNA certificate and a recent pay stub showing nursing-related duties.
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Submit for MDH Review ▾Submit the application. MDH typically reviews endorsement requests within 30 business days.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Minnesota Dept of Health
Keeping Your License Active
Minnesota Certified Nursing Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Minnesota Dept of Health for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Renew on the board siteFees
| Item | Amount |
|---|
Slow Downs
Name Mismatch
▾
The name on your government ID must exactly match the name in the TMU and Registry systems. Discrepancies will prevent you from testing or being listed.
Missing Employment Verification
▾
Failing to provide a pay stub that clearly shows nursing-related duties for renewal or endorsement will lead to application rejection.
Background Study Delays
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Delays in completing fingerprints through the DHS NETStudy 2.0 system can stall the final certification process.
Questions
Is there a fee to be on the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry?
▾
No, the Minnesota Department of Health does not charge a fee for initial registration, renewal, or endorsement. However, testing vendors charge fees for the competency exams.
How often must I renew my CNA certification in Minnesota?
▾
Certification must be renewed every 24 months. You must prove at least 8 hours of paid nursing-related work during that period.
Can I work as a CNA before I pass the exam?
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Yes, if you are currently enrolled in or have completed an approved training program, you may work in a certified facility for up to 120 days while waiting to pass the exams.
What happens if my certification expires?
▾
If it has been expired for less than 24 months, you may be able to reinstate by providing proof of work. If expired for more than 24 months, you must retake both the knowledge and skills exams.
Board Info
Sources
State statutes