Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Montana
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MT
How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Montana
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Montana, you must complete a state-approved training program of at least 75 hours, including 25 clinical hours. After training, candidates must pass the Montana Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation, administered by Headmaster, which includes both a written and a skills test. The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services credentials CNAs, and renewal is required every two years, with proof of at least 8 hours of compensated CNA employment in the past 24 months. Montana also offers reciprocity for CNAs certified in other states.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Requirements in Montana
| Detail | Montana |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 75-hour state-approved training program (including 25 clinical hours). Montana uniquely allows individuals to challenge the exam once without prior training, but failure requires completion of an approved program. |
| Exam | Headmaster CNA Exam ($97) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 12.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age 16. Renewal requires at least 8 hours of compensated CNA work in the past 24 months. Background check and immunizations are typically required by training programs and/or clinical sites. |
Source: Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Montana
The median certified nursing assistant salary in Montana is $39,300 per year, which is 0.6% below the national median of $39,530.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $35,240 |
| 25th | $37,040 |
| 50th (median) | $39,300 |
| 75th | $46,220 |
| 90th (experienced) | $53,330 |
Montana employs approximately 4,800 certified nursing assistants.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Montana Worth It?
Factors to consider: Montana's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, and your personal career goals.