CNA Certification Massachusetts

How to Become a CNA in Massachusetts

If you are considering a career as a certified nurse aide in Massachusetts, you must first complete a number of tasks. The first task is to finish a CNA training course that has been approved by the Massachusetts Department of Health. You will then need to pass the nurse aide exam that is issued at approved sites throughout the state. Finally, you must be registered on the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry.

Enrollment and Completing CNA Classes

Step 1

Find an approved program in your state

In order to enroll in CNA training courses in Massachusetts, students must be at least 18 years old and have a GED or high school diploma as well as a clear criminal record. A full physical examination and a tuberculosis screening is also required before enrollment for obvious reasons.

Step 2

Complete your CNA training

You must complete 100 hours of coursework during your CNA training. Seventy-five of these hours involve classroom training in which you will learn medical terminology, patient interaction skills, and tactics to help you remain calm in emergencies like a heart attack or accidental fall.

You will get 25 hours of hands-on nurse aide training in a medical facility. This experience is invaluable and will be part of your testing for certification. You will learn basic phlebotomy skills, how to utilize various medical equipment, CPR skills, and much more.

CNA Testing Procedures and CNA Certification

Step 1

Register to take the certification exam

You can often take the test at the same facility where you trained but occasionally will need to travel to a different test location. You must pay a fee of $93 when you register and receive your test date.

Step 2

Find a testing site to take your certification exam

Certification exams are administered by several testing sites within the state but most commonly at the Red Cross. However, your CNA training location will often double as the testing site. You can register online. A testing date will be scheduled by mail within 26 days of your application. It is a good idea to prepare for your exam and take our practice tests before the test.

Step 3

Take the certification exam

You must show two forms of ID at your test site. We advise you show up at least half an hour before the test begins so you have time to check in with the test administrators and complete any last minute paperwork that may be required. You may be asked to bring along fingerprint ID cards as well, so make certain to read all your registration instructions.

The first part of the exam requires the successful completion of five randomly-chosen tasks that demonstrate your ability to perform basic CNA job functions.

If you pass this portion, you will then proceed to the second part of the CNA certification exam. This typically consists of 50 to 60 multiple-choice questions that are designed to test what you learned in your CNA training classroom time. There will be a few reading comprehension questions in this section as well.

Step 4

After the test, results are usually provided immediately and in person. However, if you pass, your certificate will arrive by mail a few weeks after the test. You will then be listed on the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry and will be ready to secure solid employment anywhere in Massachusetts.

At this point, you should create a resume, which lists your education, skills, experience, and certification.

The average yearly CNA salary in Massachusetts is $28,300. Openings for these positions are expected to grow by 13% over the next few years, so there is no better time than now to enroll.

We encourage you to look for and take opportunities to advance your career through further education. For instance, many CNAs choose to enroll in RN or LPN degree programs which qualifies them for more lucrative job opportunities.

For additional information on becoming a CNA in Massachusetts:

Massachusetts Nurse Aide Registry
Massachusetts Department of Public Health – Division of Health Care Quality
99 Chauncy Street, Boston, MA 02111
Phone: (617) 753-8143