CNA Training in Montana

Students will need to pass the Montana CNA competency evaluation before being placed on the state’s Nurse Aide Registry. Montana uses the Headmaster examination through D&S Diversified Technologies. Many tests are performed with pencil and paper; however, some regional testing sites use WebETest, a computerized testing system. Those who take computerized testing will receive their scores sooner than those who take a paper test do. Also, oral knowledge tests can only be performed at WebETest sites. The oral examination is performed with a computer and headphones.

Headmaster uses a two-part competency examination. The first section tests CNA theory knowledge with 72 multiple-choice questions that must be answered in 90 minutes or less. Students must have a score of at least 75 percent to pass this section.

The second section tests CNA skills. Students will be asked to demonstrate hand washing as well as four other randomly selected CNA skills as described in the manual. Students must pass each skill with a score of at least 80 percent and must perform all the critical steps accurately to pass this section. Students have 35 minutes to complete the skills section.

Students receive their scores the next day for computerized testing and within 3 to 5 business days with paper testing. Both sections must be passed for students to be listed on the CNA registry. Those who fail will only need to retake the part that was failed. The fee for both sections is $97 or $108 for the oral version.

CNAs who are new to the state can transfer their certifications into Montana if they are currently active on their prior state’s registry and are not listed on the abuse registry for patient abuse, neglect or maltreatment. They will need to fill out the application for interstate endorsement and will need to send in copies of a photo ID, proof of residency in Montana and proof of prior certification. Once the Montana Registry receives the application, the CNA will be approved and placed on the Registry within 15 business days. However, CNAs can work for pay in the state for up to 30 days while they apply and wait to receive Montana certification. Candidates who are not approved must retrain and retest. Reciprocity is free.

Montana CNAs must renew their certifications every 24 months. The state sends out renewal notices a couple of months in advance. To be eligible for renewal, CNAs must submit proof to the Registry that they have worked at least 8 hours for pay performing nursing-related tasks in the past 24 months. CNAs should send in the renewal form a month before expiration to allow enough processing time. CNAs who do not renew in time or who have not worked the required hours will need either to retrain and retest or to challenge the competency examination. There is no grace period for renewal. Those who renew on time will not have to pay any fees. Those who have lapsed certifications will be subject to fees.

Montana Endorsement Application
Montana Renewal Application

Links
Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
Montana Board of Nursing licenses
Montana Nurse Aide Registry
Check your CNA license here

Contacts
Nurse Aide Training Programs
2401 Colonial Drive, 2nd Floor
PO Box 202953
Helena MT 59620-2953
Phone: (406) 444-4980
Fax: (406) 444-3456
Email: [email protected]