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Mississippi Certified Nursing Assistant License

Mississippi State Dept of Health

Total Fee
$26
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 NATP.
  • Government-Issued Photo ID — Required for admission to the testing center (e.g., Driver's License).
  • Social Security Card — The name on your ID must match your Social Security card exactly for testing.
  • Background Check Authorization — Completed through the SAFER system for initial licensure or employment. SAFER Portal

How to Apply

  1. Complete State-Approved Training ▾
    Enroll in and complete a Mississippi state-approved Nurse Aide Training Program (NATP) consisting of at least 75 hours, including 16 hours of clinical practice.
  2. Activate TMU Account ▾
    Once your training provider enters your completion into the TestMaster Universe (TMU) system, you will receive an email to activate your account and complete your profile.
    Login to TMU
  3. Pay Exam Fees ▾
    Submit payment for the NNAAP exam through your TMU account. The fee is typically $101 for both the written and skills components.
    Pay Fees
  4. Schedule the Exam ▾
    After payment is processed, select a test date and location through the TMU portal. You must pass both the Knowledge and Skills exams within 24 months of training completion.
    Schedule Exam
  5. Pass the Competency Exam ▾
    Attend your scheduled exam. You must achieve a passing score on both the Knowledge (written/oral) and Skills evaluations.
  6. Verify Registry Status ▾
    Upon passing both exams, your name will be added to the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry. Verify your active status online.
Total Fee
$26
Processing Time
1 to 2 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available

Transfer License

Contact the Mississippi State Dept of Health 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 meets OBRA '87 requirements.
  2. Submit Reciprocity Application ▾
    Complete the CNA Reciprocity Form online through the Mississippi TMU portal.
    Apply for Reciprocity
  3. Pay Reciprocity Fee ▾
    Pay the $25 administrative assessment fee through the TMU system.
    TMU Portal
  4. Complete Background Check ▾
    Register for a background check via the MSDH SAFER system using facility code HC1310447.
    Register for Background Check
  5. Submit Verification ▾
    Provide verification of your current out-of-state registry status and proof of employment (e.g., W-2 or pay stub) if required.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Mississippi State Dept of Health

Keeping Your License Active

Mississippi Certified Nursing Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Mississippi State Dept of Health for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Renew on the board site

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$26
Endorsement application$26

Slow Downs

Incomplete TMU Profile ▾
Failure to complete all demographic fields in the TMU portal can prevent exam scheduling.
Name Mismatch ▾
If the name on your ID does not match the name in the TMU system or on your Social Security card, you will be turned away from testing.
Background Check Processing ▾
Delays in fingerprinting or incorrect facility codes in the SAFER system can stall the final certification process.
Employer Verification ▾
For renewals, if an employer fails to verify your 8 hours of work in the TMU system, your certification will lapse.

Questions

How long is my Mississippi CNA certification valid? ▾
Certification is valid for 24 months from the date of issue.
What are the renewal requirements for a Mississippi CNA? ▾
You must work at least 8 hours for pay as a nurse aide within the 24-month certification period. There are no specific continuing education (CE) hour requirements.
How much does the CNA exam cost in Mississippi? ▾
The total fee is $101, which includes $32 for the Knowledge exam and $69 for the Skills evaluation.
Can I transfer my CNA license to Mississippi from another state? ▾
Yes, through reciprocity. You must be active and in good standing in your current state and pay a $25 fee.
What happens if my CNA certification expires? ▾
If you have not worked the required 8 hours in 24 months, you must retrain in an approved program and retake the competency exams.

Board Info

Mississippi State Dept of Health
Phone601-364-1100
Sources