Key Points

• CNAs assist patients with daily living activities, monitor vital signs, and support nursing staff.
• To become a CNA in Massachusetts, complete a state-approved Nurse Aide Training Program (NATP) and pass both state exams.
• CNA training lasts 3 to 15 weeks, depending on program format.
• CNAs in Massachusetts earn $46,130 per year ($22.18/hour) on average.
• Certification is issued through the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry, overseen by the Department of Public Health (DPH).
• Testing is run by D&S Headmaster; results post to the License Verification site in about three weeks
• Knowledge test allows 4 attempts; skills test allows 3 attempts

What is a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides basic patient care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). CNAs help with activities like bathing, feeding, and mobility. They also record vital signs and communicate important changes in a patient’s condition.

This hands-on role is often the first step toward becoming an LPN, RN, or other healthcare professional.

Requirements to Become a CNA in Massachusetts

• Be at least 16 years old
• High school diploma not required, but programs may use an admission assessment
• TB test and immunizations; school physical may be required
• CORI background check and fingerprinting
• Complete a state-approved Nurse Aide Training Program
• Pass the D&S Headmaster knowledge and skills exams
• Get listed on the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry

How to Become a CNA in Massachusetts

1. Confirm eligibility and health clearances

Gather immunization records and a recent TB test. Complete CORI and fingerprinting. If you trained in another state or completed a qualifying nursing clinical, review waiver paths under 105 CMR 156.100 on the MA site.

2. Enroll in a state-approved CNA program

Choose a provider from the MA Department of Public Health list. Use DPH Check a License and set License Board to Nurse Aide Registry and License Type to Nurse Aide Training Provider Approval to see approved schools.

Ready to compare start dates and prices quickly? Find CNA classes near you on Dreambound and filter by cost, schedule, or location.

3. Pass the Massachusetts CNA exam

Register and schedule with D&S Headmaster after your school submits completion. The exam has a 60-question knowledge test and a timed skills test drawn from 19 skills. Knowledge can be retaken up to 4 times, skills up to 3 times. Test delivery is available in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Haitian Creole. Allow about three weeks for results to appear on the state License Verification website.

4. Get listed on the MA Nurse Aide Registry

Once you pass both parts, your name is added to the Registry. You can confirm status on the license verification site and start working as a CNA.

5. Maintain and grow your credential

Renew every 24 months by showing at least eight hours of paid CNA work during the period. Keep employer documentation. Plan your next step to LPN, RN, or specialty roles.

The CNA Training Program in Massachusetts

If you opt for the accelerated option, the CNA classes in MA typically span a duration of 3-4 weeks. However, the average length of a typical class ranges from 6 to 15 weeks, which might extend the time required.

‍Tuition costs are anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000. This can vary due to the time of the classes and the class environment. Inclusions of the tuition can vary too. Make sure to inquire with your training provider if there are other future expenses to know.

A typical amount of training is 75 hours of lectures and 25 hours of clinical experience. Every CNA student should receive these components for training.

Training waivers and reciprocity are possible in Massachusetts. You can apply for a waiver if you finish your CNA training program in another state. Students who completed a clinical course in an approved School of Nursing can also apply. You can apply through the Nurse Aide Registry program, which oversees all CNAs in the state.

Subject areas for your CNA class may focus on different aspects. Study these topics in your training, as questions may appear about these on your state exams too!

• Aging Process and Restorative Care 
• Infection Control 
• Basic Nursing Skills 
• Mental Health 
• Care Impaired 
• Personal Care 
• Communication 
• Resident Rights 
• Data Collection 
• Role and Responsibility 
• Disease Process 
• Safety

Where to Find CNA Classes in Massachusetts

Dreambound is the fastest way to compare approved CNA programs in Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and more. See tuition ranges, formats, and upcoming cohorts. Browse reviews, ask schools questions, and enroll with confidence. If you already completed training in another state, see D&S Headmaster for waiver and reciprocity instructions and confirm with the MA Nurse Aide Registry.

The CNA State Exam in Massachusetts

The CNA exam in Massachusetts has two portions: A knowledge test and a skills test. Let's discuss what you should expect for both parts of the exam.

The knowledge test has 60 questions and a time limit of 60 minutes to complete. 76% above is the passing score for this part of the exam.

The skills test is an essential part of your exam. This will be your chance to prove your skills in actual-like scenarios with patients. You will perform three or four tasks out of the 19 skills in 30 minutes. There are key steps in each skill that you must perform with precision to pass. Attentive listening is crucial for you to pass this part!

The Headmaster is approved by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to offer Certified Nurse Aide Testing Services. As of August 2024, here are the fees for the exam:

• Knowledge Exam - $30
• Audio version of the Knowledge Exam - $40
• Skill Test - $70

How Do I Register for a CNA Exam in Massachusetts?

All test takers have to register on Massachusetts CNA TMU©. After your initial registration, you are now able to schedule and pay for your exams.

Training providers handle your record with your completion hours and date. You should receive an email and text message saying that you're eligible to schedule a test date. Some training providers may have pre-paid the testing fees for their students. Confirm with your instructor if that applies to you before scheduling the exam.

The options for a virtual knowledge test and an oral exam are available as well. Make sure to double-check all your selected preferences before paying!

‍Remember your email and password! You will need access to your account for other things, too, such as rescheduling. You may reschedule up to one full business day before your scheduled test date. Your test confirmation letter is also available on your account and viewable anytime. Read this letter as it contains policies, state-specific instructions, and more!

On the day of your exam, remember these things to have a smooth testing journey!

1. Arrive early! - Be at the site 20 to 30 minutes before the start of your exam. If you chose the virtual knowledge test, sign in 10 to 20 minutes before the confirmed test time. 
2. Wear presentable clothes - There is no mandatory uniform to wear for test takers. The suggested attire is a scrub suit, closed-toed shoes, and tie your hair for a neat look. 
3. Bring IDs! - All test takers should bring two original forms of IDs. Both should have a signature or fingerprint and one bearing a picture of you. 

For a list of valid IDs accepted for the state exams, refer to the MA Nurse Aide Candidate Handbook.

How Do I Get My CNA Certification in Massachusetts?

This is the moment of truth! Your test scores will be available on your TMU© account after a few weeks. Rest assured; all test scores are double-checked and scored by D&SDT-Headmaster.

In Massachusetts, your CNA training does not expire. Don't lose hope if you aren't able to pass the exams right away! You can retake the knowledge exams up to 4 times. For the skills exam, you have 3 chances to pass them. If in case you have taken up all these chances already, you still have a fighting chance! You must first undergo training again to be eligible to take the exams.

Get the chance to verify your license here. According to the MA state government, you should expect to wait at least three weeks for the results.

It is also very important to note that D&SDT-Headmaster does not mail test results letters! All test results are available online on your TMU© account and on the license verification site.