Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Massachusetts
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MA
How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Massachusetts
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Massachusetts, you must complete a state-approved training program of at least 75 hours, which includes both classroom learning and clinical practice. After completing the training, you must pass the Massachusetts Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation, administered by D&S Diversified Technologies (TMU Portal), which includes a written/oral exam and a skills demonstration. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health oversees the Nurse Aide Registry, and renewal is required every two years, contingent on having worked at least 8 hours as a CNA for pay in the preceding 24 months. Reciprocity is available for out-of-state CNAs who meet specific criteria.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Requirements in Massachusetts
| Detail | Massachusetts |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Massachusetts Department of Public Health |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved Nurse Aide Training Program of at least 75 hours, including classroom and clinical instruction. Many programs require a high school diploma or GED. |
| Exam | Massachusetts Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation (administered by D&S Diversified Technologies/TMU Portal) ($110) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Minimum age of 18 years old (some programs allow 16-17 with parental consent, but must be 18 to work). Requires a criminal background check (CORI and SORI). Renewal requires having worked for pay as a CNA for at least 8 hours performing nursing-related duties in the past 24 months. There is no continuing education requirement for renewal. |
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Massachusetts
The median certified nursing assistant salary in Massachusetts is $45,410 per year, which is 14.9% above the national median of $39,530.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $38,380 |
| 25th | $40,220 |
| 50th (median) | $45,410 |
| 75th | $48,370 |
| 90th (experienced) | $56,340 |
Massachusetts employs approximately 38,280 certified nursing assistants.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Massachusetts Worth It?
Factors to consider: Massachusetts's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, and your personal career goals.