How to Get Your CNA Certification in Maryland (MD): 2026 Guide
Maryland uses the NNAAP through Credentia, with a two-tier GNA/CNA system and 100 hours of training.
Maryland offers two CNA-related credentials: the standard Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and the Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) for those working in nursing homes. Candidates complete a 100-hour approved program and pass the Credentia NNAAP exam to earn a CNA; GNA requires additional geriatric training on top of the same foundation.
This guide covers the program, costs, exam details, and where to test in Maryland.
Maryland CNA at a glance
- Testing vendor: Credentia (NNAAP)
- Training hours: 100 total (CNA); CNA plus additional geriatric training for GNA
- Exam format: 70-question written or oral exam + 5-skill hands-on evaluation
- Exam fee: approximately $105 combined
- GNA listing fee: $10–$20 (state, separate from exam fee)
- Registry: Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON)
- Renewal: 24 months
Who oversees CNA certification in Maryland
The Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON) approves training programs, administers the registry, and sets GNA requirements. Credentia administers the NNAAP exam under state contract. MBON also processes reciprocity applications for out-of-state CNAs.
Training programs in Maryland
Maryland requires a 100-hour state-approved program. GNA training adds additional geriatric care content (typically an extra 20–40 hours of focused training on geriatric-specific care). Programs are offered at:
- Community colleges (Montgomery College, Community College of Baltimore County, Anne Arundel CC, Harford CC, Howard CC, Prince George's CC, Carroll CC, Cecil CC, Chesapeake College, Wor-Wic CC, Allegany CC of Maryland, Garrett CC, Hagerstown CC, Frederick CC)
- Private training academies
- Long-term care facilities with in-house programs
- Some high school career and technical education programs
Most programs run 6–10 weeks. Tuition typically ranges from $900 to $2,000 plus $150–$250 for uniforms, textbooks, the Maryland Department of Public Safety background check, and the BLS certification course. GNA training adds $150–$300 on top of base CNA tuition.
The Maryland CNA exam: Credentia details
The NNAAP exam has two parts:
-
Written or Oral Exam — 70 multiple-choice questions on resident rights, basic nursing skills, infection control, communication, and safety. The oral version is available for an extra fee.
-
Skills Evaluation — 5 randomly selected skills demonstrated in front of a Credentia nurse evaluator. Handwashing is always tested.
GNA candidates must also complete additional geriatric training before being listed on the registry as a GNA. MBON reviews GNA eligibility separately from CNA eligibility.
How much does the Maryland CNA exam cost?
- Written + skills combined — ~$105
- Oral upgrade — ~$20
- Skills retake — ~$75
- Written retake — ~$45
- GNA listing fee (state) — $10–$20
- Maryland State Police background check — $15–$25
Training program tuition is paid separately and ranges $900–$2,000 for CNA, plus $150–$300 for GNA add-on if applicable.
Where to take the test in Maryland
- Baltimore — frequent testing; multiple Credentia partner sites
- Silver Spring — regular sessions; Montgomery College-area dates
- Annapolis — periodic testing; Anne Arundel CC-area dates
- Hagerstown — scheduled through partner programs; limited dates
- Salisbury — limited dates; book early
- Frederick — limited dates; book early
- Cumberland — limited dates; westernmost option
Maryland's testing footprint is concentrated in the DC-Baltimore corridor. Western Maryland (Garrett County, Allegany County) and far Eastern Shore candidates may travel 60–90 minutes to the nearest active site.
Scheduling and what to bring on test day
Bring government-issued photo ID, your Credentia test confirmation, and clinical scrubs. The skills portion may be scheduled on a separate day. Arrival 15 minutes early is required.
After you pass: Maryland certification and renewal
Credentia reports passing scores to MBON, which lists you on the Maryland CNA/GNA Registry within 7–14 days. Your name appears on the MBON public lookup at mbon.maryland.gov. Certification is valid for 24 months. To renew, complete at least 8 hours of paid nurse aide work during the certification period under the supervision of an RN.
Common pitfalls specific to Maryland
- CNA vs GNA: Employers in nursing homes often require the GNA. Confirm which credential you need before applying.
- GNA training: Don't skip the geriatric add-on if you plan to work in long-term care.
- MBON portal: Use the Maryland Board of Nursing's public lookup at mbon.maryland.gov to verify your listing.
- Background check: Maryland's state police background check takes 1–3 weeks; submit during week 1 of training.
FAQ
Do I need a GNA or a CNA in Maryland? CNA is the base credential. GNA is required for many nursing-home positions and requires additional geriatric training.
How long does it take to become a CNA in Maryland? Most students finish training in 6–10 weeks and add 2–4 weeks for exam scheduling and registry listing.
How much is Maryland CNA training? Plan $900–$2,000 for tuition plus $150–$250 for supplies, the state background check, and the exam fee.
Can I bring an out-of-state CNA license to Maryland? Yes. Apply through MBON's reciprocity program. Some candidates from states with shorter training programs may need Maryland-approved supplementary coursework.
Practice for the Maryland CNA exam at /exam and review skills at /skills.
