Nursing License Lookup - Maryland CNA Registry

License Lookup Information

In Maryland, verifying the licensure of a nurse ensures that the individual is qualified and authorized to practice nursing in accordance with state laws and regulations. The Maryland Board of Nursing provides a convenient online tool to perform this verification. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use the nurse license lookup tool to verify a nurse's license in Maryland:

Step-by-Step Instructions to Use the Nurse License Lookup Tool

  1. Visit the Official Website:

    • Access the Maryland Board of Nursing website. Look for the section dedicated to license verification or use the search function on the site by entering terms like "license verification".

  2. Navigate to the Verification Page:

    • On the homepage, find and click the link that leads to the license verification page. This might be directly labeled as “License Verification” or “Verify a License.”

  3. Enter Search Criteria:

    • You will be prompted to enter specific information to search for the nurse’s license. Typically, this involves entering the nurse's name or license number. Ensure you have the correct spelling and details for accurate results.
    • Some lookup tools also allow you to search by other criteria, such as the type of license or specialty area.

  4. Conduct the Search:

    • After entering the necessary information, submit your search. This may be done by clicking a "Search" button or similar function.

  5. Review the Results:

    • The search results will display information related to the licensure of the nurse. This usually includes the nurse’s name, license number, status (active, inactive, expired, or disciplinary actions), and the expiration date.
    • It’s important to carefully review whether the license status meets the requirement for the practice or employment setting.

  6. Additional Verification or Information:

    • If required, you can often click on a specific license number or name to see more detailed information about the license and any disciplinary actions or certifications.

  7. Print or Save the Verification:

    • Most platforms will allow you to print or save the information if you need a physical copy for records or further verification.

Specific Regulations and Criteria Related to Nurse Licensure in Maryland

  • Types of Licenses: Maryland issues different types of nursing licenses, such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). Each has different educational and exam requirements.
  • Renewal Requirements: Nurses must renew their licenses at regular intervals, generally every two years. This may involve completing continuing education credits, paying a renewal fee, and submitting a renewal application.
  • Disciplinary Actions: The Maryland Board of Nursing may impose disciplinary actions on licenses for various reasons, including professional misconduct or failure to comply with continuing education requirements. These actions are visible during the license verification process.
  • Compact State Status: Maryland is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to hold one multi-state license with the privilege to practice in their home state and other compact states without obtaining additional licenses.

Utilizing the nurse license lookup tool is a valuable process for employers, patients, and other nurses to ensure quality and regulatory compliance within the nursing profession in Maryland.

Registry Information

In Maryland, the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Registry is managed by the Maryland Board of Nursing. This registry contains information about the status of CNAs’ certifications in the state, and it is commonly used by employers and individuals to verify a CNA’s credentials. Here’s how to access and use the Maryland CNA registry:

Accessing the Maryland CNA Registry:

  1. Visit the Maryland Board of Nursing Website: The Maryland Board of Nursing provides an online portal where individuals and employers can check the status of a CNA's certification.
  2. Navigate to the Verification Page: There is typically a direct link or a menu option for "Verification" or "Look up a License" on the website.
  3. Use the Search Tool: You'll need to enter specific details to search for a CNA. Required information might include the CNA’s name, license number, or Social Security number.

Verifying a CNA's Certification:

  • Enter the required information in the search fields. This can be the CNA's name or other identifying details.
  • Submit the search to view the certification status. This result will tell you whether the certification is active, expired, or suspended, among other details.
  • Verify other credentials: Maryland CNAs may also have additional certifications listed, such as Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) status, which is often required for working in long-term care settings in Maryland.

Unique Aspects of Maryland's CNA Registry:

  • Dual Certification: Maryland is unique in that CNAs can also be certified as Geriatric Nursing Assistants (GNAs). Employers in long-term care settings typically require GNA certification in addition to the CNA certification.
  • Renewal Requirements: CNAs in Maryland must renew their certification every two years. This process typically requires proof of continuing education and work hours as a CNA.
  • Online Maintenance: Maryland provides options to renew, reinstate, or update information online via the Maryland Board of Nursing’s website.

By following these steps, individuals can efficiently verify a CNA's certification status in Maryland and ensure they meet the necessary credentials and state-specific requirements. Always refer to the Maryland Board of Nursing's official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

State-Specific Regulations

In Maryland, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and nurses must adhere to specific requirements and regulations set forth by the state. Here's an overview of these requirements, recent changes, and where to find more information.

CNAs in Maryland:

  1. Education and Training: Prospective CNAs must complete a state-approved training program, which typically includes at least 100 hours of training, split between classroom instruction and clinical training.

  2. Examination: After completing the training, candidates must pass the Maryland Nurse Aide Certification Exam, which includes both a written (or oral) component and a skills demonstration component.

  3. Background Check: Candidates must undergo a criminal background check as part of the certification process.

  4. Renewal: CNA certification in Maryland must be renewed every two years. CNAs must demonstrate that they have been employed in a nursing-related capacity for at least 8 hours in the past 24 months to qualify for renewal.

Nurses in Maryland:

The requirements for Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) include:

  1. Education: RNs must complete an accredited nursing program, which can be an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). LPNs must complete a state-approved practical nursing program.

  2. NCLEX Examination:

    • RN: Candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
    • LPN: Candidates must pass the NCLEX-PN exam.

  3. Licensure by Endorsement: Nurses who are licensed in another state may apply for licensure in Maryland by endorsement, which involves verifying their current license and may require additional documentation or a background check.

  4. Renewal: Nursing licenses in Maryland must be renewed every two years, with continuing education requirements that must be fulfilled as part of the renewal process.

Recent Updates:

  • Maryland has implemented the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to hold one multistate license with the ability to practice in all compact states. This eases the process for nurses moving between states or working across state lines.

Official Resources:

For the most accurate and detailed information, here are some relevant official resources:

  • Maryland Board of Nursing: This is the primary resource for both CNAs and nurses regarding training, examination, and licensure. Their website provides comprehensive information regarding all aspects of nursing practice in Maryland. Maryland Board of Nursing Website
  • Maryland Department of Health: Useful for information on public health regulations and updates that affect nursing and healthcare practices in the state. Maryland Department of Health Website

These sites are essential for aspiring and current nursing professionals in Maryland, offering up-to-date information on requirements, applications, renewals, and more.