Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements Ensure that you meet the basic eligibility requirements set by the North Dakota Department of Health. You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You will also need to pass a criminal background check and have a negative tuberculosis (TB) test result.

Step 2: Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program Enroll in and successfully complete a state-approved CNA training program in North Dakota. These programs are offered by community colleges, vocational schools, nursing homes, and healthcare facilities. The North Dakota Department of Health maintains a list of approved training programs on their website. The training program typically consists of classroom instruction, laboratory training, and hands-on clinical experience. The required training hours in North Dakota are at least 75 hours, which include both classroom and clinical components.

Step 3: Submit an Application to the North Dakota Department of Health After completing the CNA training program, submit an application to the North Dakota Department of Health. You can obtain the application form from their website or by contacting their office directly. Fill out the form accurately, providing the required personal and educational information. Include any supporting documentation, such as proof of completing the training program and documentation of immunizations.

Step 4: Pass the Competency Exam Once your application is approved, you will be eligible to take the competency exam. The North Dakota Department of Health contracts with a testing agency called Prometric to administer the exam. They will provide information on scheduling and exam locations. The exam consists of a written or oral test and a skills evaluation. Passing both components is necessary to obtain certification.

Step 5: Obtain Certification Upon successfully passing the competency exam, the North Dakota Department of Health will review your application and exam results. If everything is in order, they will issue your CNA certification. You will receive a certification card indicating that you are a Certified Nursing Assistant in North Dakota.

Step 6: Maintain Certification To maintain your CNA certification in North Dakota, you must renew it every two years. The renewal process requires you to have worked as a paid CNA for at least 8 hours during the certification period. You may also need to complete continuing education credits as determined by the North Dakota Department of Health.