CNA Classes in Grand Rapids, MI

How Much Does CNA Training Cost in Grand Rapids?

Beyond tuition, plan for the state exam fee (Varies; check Headmaster's TMU Michigan fee schedule (typically $90–$130 total for both portions)), the application/registry fee ($40 non-refundable LARA registry fee paid through the MI-NATES portal), a background check, and uniforms or supplies. All in, total CNA training cost in Michigan typically falls around $0 (employer-sponsored) to $1,500 (private program).

How to Become a CNA in Grand Rapids, MI

1. 1

   Confirm you meet the prerequisites

   You must be at least 16, free of disqualifying convictions under Michigan healthcare worker background check rules, and able to read and write English. There is no formal high school diploma requirement from LARA, though most training programs require basic English literacy.

2. 2

   Find a LARA-approved Nurse Aide Training Program (NATP)

   Look for a 75-hour state-approved program under Part 219 of the Michigan Public Health Code. Approved programs are offered through Michigan's community college system (Wayne County Community College, Macomb Community College, Grand Rapids Community College, Lansing Community College), the American Red Cross, nursing facilities, and private career schools. Many Michigan LTC operators in metro Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Lansing sponsor training in exchange for a work commitment.

3. 3

   Complete the 75-hour training program

   Pass all 75 hours, including 16 hours of classroom core curriculum before any direct resident contact and at least 16 hours of supervised skills training. Your program registers you with Headmaster for the competency exam through the TestMaster Universe (TMU) platform.

4. 4

   Complete ICHAT and FBI background screening

   Submit fingerprints for both Michigan State Police Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT) check and federal FBI fingerprint clearance. Processing usually takes 1 to 3 weeks. Disqualifying offenses include violent felonies, theft, fraud, sexual offenses, drug trafficking, and vulnerable-adult abuse.

5. 5

   Schedule and pass the Headmaster competency exam

   Schedule the two-part exam through Headmaster's TMU site at mi.tmutest.com or by calling (888) 401-0462. The exam includes a written (or oral) knowledge test and a hands-on skills evaluation. Both portions must be passed for registry listing.

6. 6

   Create a MILogin account and pay the $40 LARA registry fee

   After passing the exam, log in to MI-NATES (Michigan Nurse Aide Training and Enforcement System) using a MILogin account. Pay the $40 non-refundable LARA registry fee by credit or debit card. This fee is separate from the Headmaster exam fees.

7. 7

   Get listed on the Michigan Nurse Aide Registry

   Once your application is processed through MI-NATES, LARA adds you to the Michigan Nurse Aide Registry. You can verify your status at nurseaideregistry.apps.lara.state.mi.us. From that point you are authorized to work as a CNA in any Michigan LARA-licensed healthcare facility.

Becoming a CNA in Michigan

Becoming a CNA in Michigan changed significantly in 2023 when LARA — the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs — switched testing vendors from Prometric to D&S Diversified Technologies (Headmaster) and launched MI-NATES (Michigan Nurse Aide Training and Enforcement System) as the state's first fully paperless registry portal. If you took a Michigan CNA exam before July 2023, you tested with Prometric; everyone since takes the Headmaster TMU exam at mi.tmutest.com. This is a recent change, and outdated study materials still reference Prometric, so make sure your prep is current.

Frequently Asked Questions: CNA Training in Grand Rapids