If you’re pursuing a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Michigan, you need to know exactly what the state requires before you can start working. Michigan has specific training, testing, and registry requirements that differ from other states, and getting them wrong can delay your career by weeks or months.
This guide covers everything you need to become a CNA in Michigan in 2026 — training hours, the competency exam, state registry, renewal requirements, reciprocity for out-of-state CNAs, and what you can expect to earn.
Training requirements
State requires a minimum of 75 hours of training (meeting the federal minimum), including at least 16 hours of supervised clinical practice.
CNA training programs in Michigan are offered through community colleges, vocational schools, healthcare facilities, and the American Red Cross. When choosing a program, make sure it is state-approved — only graduates of approved programs are eligible to take the competency evaluation.
Competency exam
Competency evaluation administered by Prometric, consisting of a written (or oral) knowledge test and a clinical skills demonstration.
You must pass both portions of the exam to be placed on the Michigan Nurse Aide Registry. If you fail, most states allow retakes, but check with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) Nurse Aide Registry for Michigan’s specific retake policy.
State registry
Once you pass the competency evaluation, your name is placed on the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) Nurse Aide Registry. Employers are required to verify your certification through this registry before hiring you.
You can verify your certification status or find more information at: Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) Nurse Aide Registry.
Michigan note: Michigan meets the federal minimum for CNA training hours. Strong demand in the Detroit metropolitan area and across the state's extensive long-term care network.
Average salary in Michigan
CNAs in Michigan typically earn $34,000-$40,000 per year. Pay varies by setting, experience, shift differentials, and geographic location within the state.
Top employers in Michigan include Beaumont Health (now Corewell Health), Henry Ford Health, Trinity Health Michigan, Spectrum Health, skilled nursing facilities statewide.
Renewal requirements
Certification is valid for 2 years. Must have worked as a CNA for compensation within the 24-month period to maintain active status.
Reciprocity (transferring from another state)
Michigan accepts out-of-state CNA certifications through reciprocity. Must apply to LARA and provide proof of training and active certification.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a CNA in Michigan?
CNA training programs in Michigan typically take 4-12 weeks to complete. State requires a minimum of 75 hours of training (meeting the federal minimum), including at least 16 hours of supervised clinical practice. After completing your training, you must pass the competency evaluation to be placed on the state registry.
How much do CNAs make in Michigan?
CNAs in Michigan typically earn $34,000-$40,000 per year. Pay varies by setting (hospitals generally pay more than skilled nursing facilities), shift differentials, and geographic location within the state. Major employers include Beaumont Health (now Corewell Health), Henry Ford Health, Trinity Health Michigan, Spectrum Health, skilled nursing facilities statewide.
Can I transfer my CNA certification to Michigan from another state?
Michigan accepts out-of-state CNA certifications through reciprocity. Must apply to LARA and provide proof of training and active certification. Contact the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) Nurse Aide Registry for the most current reciprocity requirements.