CNA Requirements in Minnesota

Becoming a CNA in Minnesota is overseen by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), which approves all nurse aide training programs, maintains the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry, and since February 1, 2022 contracts exclusively with D&SDT-Headmaster as the state's testing administrator using the TestMaster Universe (TMU) platform. Minnesota requires the federal minimum of 75 training hours, with at least 16 hours of supervised practical training with live patients — significantly less than Maryland's 100 hours or California's 160 hours.

Minnesota is more generous than most states on exam retakes: you have up to 4 attempts at the knowledge test and 3 attempts at the skills test within 24 months of completing your training program. The 70-question knowledge test requires answering 52 questions correctly (74% to pass), and the skills test requires performing 5 randomly selected skills in front of a nurse evaluator. Combined exam fees are $270, with the option to pay $100 for the written portion only or $170 for the skills portion only if you need to retake just one part.

Once you pass both portions and clear a Minnesota DHS background study through NETStudy 2.0, MDH adds your name to the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry — typically within 1-2 weeks. You can verify your status at nar.web.health.state.mn.us. From that point you are authorized to work as a CNA in any Minnesota-licensed nursing home or certified boarding care home, and most CNAs also find employment in hospitals, home health agencies, and assisted living facilities. To maintain your registry status you must complete at least 8 hours of paid nursing services every 24 months.