Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) in North Dakota
This guide outlines the steps to become a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) in North Dakota, detailing a process that typically spans 8-12 weeks. The guide includes specific actions such as verifying prerequisites, completing state-approved training, passing the required exam, and obtaining certification. Total costs can range from $800 to $2,500, depending on choices made during the process.
As a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) in North Dakota, individuals are positioned in a growing field with a median salary of $40,880 per year. The national statistics project a 12.5% job growth by 2034, reflecting the increasing demand for healthcare services and professionals. This growth trend suggests strong job security and numerous employment opportunities for CMAs in the state. Choosing a career as a CMA in North Dakota is a sound decision due to these promising economic factors coupled with the essential role these professionals play in healthcare settings, performing both administrative and clinical tasks that contribute to efficient patient care.
North Dakota offers a distinctive environment for CMAs due to its specific state regulations and regional healthcare needs. The state's vast rural areas present unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery, impacting the demand and roles of medical assistants. Major healthcare employers in North Dakota, such as Sanford Health and Essentia Health, are significant due to their extensive network of clinics and hospitals, providing numerous employment opportunities for CMAs. Additionally, North Dakota's regulatory framework for CMAs ensures that professionals are well-trained and certified according to defined standards, promoting high-quality patient care and professional accountability.
This guide provides detailed information on how to become a Certified Medical Assistant in North Dakota, including the steps required for certification, licensing particulars, and what candidates can expect in terms of salary and job market conditions. Prospective CMAs will find guidance on educational requirements, examination processes, and maintaining certification. The guide also offers insights into the job market, highlighting potential employers and the typical roles and responsibilities of CMAs in various settings. This information aims to equip readers with the necessary knowledge to pursue a career as a CMA in North Dakota effectively.
Licensing Authority
North Dakota Board of Nursing
In North Dakota, Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) must meet specific licensing requirements set by the state's governing body. These include completing an accredited training program, passing a recognized examination, and fulfilling background check requirements.
Official Resources
North Dakota Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- 100 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 60 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 40 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Proof of CPR certification
Certification Exam
- Exam
- Certified Medical Assistant Exam (CMA)
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Varies by testing provider
How to Become a Certified Medical Assistant in North Dakota
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $125, background check $45, application fee $50, textbooks/supplies $80, scrubs $50
Fastest Path
8 weeks
Typical Timeline
12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet North Dakota's Prerequisites
Start by confirming you meet the basic requirements to become a CMA in North Dakota. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good health. Visit the North Dakota Board of Nursing website to download the checklist for CMA candidates. This checklist will guide you through the necessary prerequisites and provide detailed information on further steps. Expect to spend a couple of days gathering and verifying your documents.
Tip
Order your high school transcript online through Parchment.com ($15) to avoid a 2-week mail delay from your school's registrar office.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
You'll need to undergo a background check and complete specific health screenings. For the background check, visit a local police station that offers fingerprinting services. Use the North Dakota Attorney General's website to submit your fingerprints electronically. Health screenings typically include a TB test and proof of immunizations. Processing times for background checks can take up to 3 weeks. Make sure to keep copies of all your health screening documents for your training program.
Tip
Schedule your health screenings early to avoid delays in your application process.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Selecting a state-approved training program is crucial. Visit the North Dakota Board of Nursing website to access a list of approved programs. Attending a program that is not state-approved will prevent you from sitting for the certification exam. Approved programs consist of 60 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours. Contact the programs directly to inquire about schedules, costs, and start dates. Choosing the right program can take a few days as you may need to attend open houses or speak with admissions officers.
Tip
Contact multiple programs to compare costs and schedules that fit your needs.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you've chosen a program, complete the enrollment process, which includes submitting your high school diploma, ID, and health screening results. Training programs in North Dakota require 60 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours, totaling 100 hours. Ensure you attend all sessions as attendance is mandatory to sit for the state exam. Upon completion, the program will issue a certificate of completion necessary for exam registration. This step typically takes 6-8 weeks depending on the program's schedule.
Tip
Keep a record of all attendance and completed assignments in case of discrepancies with the training provider.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Preparing for the CMA competency exam is essential. The exam, administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering clinical and administrative duties. Utilize study guides and practice exams available on the AAMA website. Allocate at least 2-4 weeks for exam preparation. Familiarize yourself with the exam format and content areas to improve your chances of passing on your first attempt.
Tip
Regularly take practice exams to track your progress and identify areas needing improvement.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the CMA exam through the AAMA website. You will need to submit your application along with the fee and your training completion certificate. The fee for the exam is $125. After your application is approved, you will receive an email to schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center. It is advisable to schedule your exam 3-4 weeks in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
Tip
Choose a testing center and time that are convenient for you to reduce stress on exam day.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive at the Pearson VUE testing center early with two forms of ID. The CMA exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and must be completed in 160 minutes. If you fail, you can retake the exam, but you must wait 30 days and pay the exam fee again. Passing the exam will qualify you to apply for certification.
Tip
Ensure a good night's sleep before the exam and arrive early to avoid any last-minute stress.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the exam, apply for your CMA certification through the North Dakota Board of Nursing. Submit the application form available on their website, along with the exam pass report and the application fee of $50. Processing typically takes 2-3 weeks. Once processed, your certification will be posted on the North Dakota Nurse Aide Registry.
Tip
Double-check your application for accuracy to avoid delays in processing.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is approved and processed, your CMA certification will appear on the North Dakota Nurse Aide Registry. Verify your certification online to ensure all details are correct. This confirmation is crucial as employers will check this registry before hiring. If there are any discrepancies, contact the Board of Nursing immediately to correct them.
Tip
Regularly check the registry until your certification appears to ensure there are no errors.
Find Your First Job
With your certification in hand, begin your job search. Utilize online job portals such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn to find CMA positions in North Dakota. Additionally, local hospitals and clinics often post job openings directly on their websites. Networking with classmates and instructors can also lead to job opportunities. Prepare your resume and tailor it to each job application for the best chance of success.
Tip
Tailor your resume to highlight skills and experiences relevant to the job you are applying for.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Nursing Homes
Some nursing homes in North Dakota offer employer-sponsored training programs for aspiring CMAs. These programs often cover the cost of training and certification in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility for a specified period. This path can be an excellent option for those looking to secure employment immediately after certification.
Best for: Individuals looking for immediate employment and who are open to committing to a single employer for a period.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the North Dakota Board of Nursing approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) Certification Exam administered by American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
Written Test
Questions: 200
Time Limit: 160 minutes
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: Scaled score of 430
- • General: 28%
- • Administrative: 25%
- • Clinical: 47%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 0
Time Per Skill: N/A
The CMA exam does not include a practical skills test; it is entirely written.
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport)
- ✓ AAMA exam confirmation letter
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items such as bags, books, notes, phones, or smart devices
- ✗ Food or drink
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes about 15 minutes. Written test is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Getting Your Results
Results are available online through the AAMA website within 8 weeks after the exam. Candidates receive a pass or fail status immediately after the exam.
If You Don't Pass
If you fail, you can retake the exam up to three times within a 12-month period. Each retake has a fee. Contact the AAMA for current retake fees.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Read each question carefully, especially the ones that seem straightforward, as they might contain specific details crucial to selecting the correct answer.
- 2. Manage your time by noting how much time you spend on each question and moving on if stuck, as you can return to it if time allows.
- 3. Use the process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down the choices.
- 4. Familiarize yourself with the exam's content outline from the AAMA to focus your study on the weighted areas.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From previous educational institutions or relevant state education department · Varies (usually no cost for copies) · 1-4 weeks
Required for admission into CMA training programs
Proof of Immunizations
From personal physician or local health department · Varies (depending on health insurance) · 1-2 weeks
Must include MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and Tdap
Tuberculosis Test Results
From personal physician or local health clinic · Varies (depending on health insurance) · 1 week
Required to ensure the safety in clinical settings
Criminal Background Check
Through North Dakota Attorney General's website or approved third-party providers · Approximately $25 · 1-3 weeks
Some convictions may disqualify applicants from certification
CPR Certification
From American Heart Association or American Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies by course availability
Must be a Healthcare Provider level certification
2During Training
Enrollment Verification
From the educational institution where training is received · Usually no cost · Immediate to 1 week
Proof of current enrollment required for some internships or externships
Liability Insurance
Through educational institution or direct purchase from an insurance provider · Varies (approximately $30-$100 annually) · Immediate upon payment
Required for clinical practice
Health Insurance Proof
From health insurance provider · No additional cost if already insured · Immediate to 1 week
Required by some training programs for clinical rotations
Academic Transcripts
From the educational institution where training is received · Varies (usually $5-$10 per copy) · 1-2 weeks
Necessary for transferring credits or future educational opportunities
3For the Exam
Exam Application
From the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) website · Exam fee approximately $125 for AAMA members, $250 for non-members
Must be submitted by the deadline prior to desired exam date
Proof of Program Completion
From the educational institution where CMA training was completed · Usually no cost
Required to sit for the CMA Certification Exam
Photo Identification
State-issued driver's license, state ID, or passport · No additional cost if already possessed
Needed for identity verification at the exam center
4For Certification
CMA Certification Exam Results
Automatically received from AAMA post-exam · Included in exam fee
Passing the exam is required for certification
Certification Fee
Payable to AAMA · Included in the initial exam fee; renewal fees apply every 60 months
Payment required to issue the certification
Continuing Education Credits
From accredited continuing education providers · Varies by provider and course
Necessary for certification renewal every 60 months
After You're Certified: What's Next
After passing your CMA exam, verify your status on the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) website. Obtain your certificate by downloading it from the AAMA portal or wait for it to arrive by mail.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • North Dakota Job Service, Indeed, LinkedIn, and healthcare-specific job boards like Health eCareers
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, private clinics, long-term care facilities, and outpatient centers. Hospitals often offer structured training but may have demanding schedules. Clinics provide a more regular schedule but might offer fewer opportunities for advancement.
Resume Tip: Highlight your certification, any clinical externships, and relevant skills such as patient care, administration, and knowledge of healthcare software. Include soft skills like communication and teamwork.
Interview Tip: Prepare to discuss your externship experiences, how you handle stressful situations, and your ability to work as part of a healthcare team. Expect to answer scenario-based questions to demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
Expected First-Year Salary
In North Dakota, a new Certified Medical Assistant can expect to earn between $30,000 and $35,000 annually.
Career Advancement Path
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Complete a state-approved LPN program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • High workload and stress levels, especially in hospitals. Managing these challenges includes proper time management, seeking mentorship, and continuous learning to improve efficiency and care quality.
Certified Medical Assistant Salary in North Dakota
In North Dakota, Certified Medical Assistants earn a median annual salary of $40,880, slightly below the national median. This reflects a competitive wage within a market less saturated compared to larger states.
Entry Level
$33,500
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$40,880
$19.65/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$51,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$42,000 national · -2.7% in North Dakota
Salary by Metro Area
Highest in the state due to larger population and healthcare facilities
Competitive salaries due to state capital healthcare demands
Salary by Employer Type
The median salary in North Dakota, slightly below the national average, aligns well with the state's lower cost of living compared to many other states.
Benefits & Compensation
Typical benefits include health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. Some employers may offer tuition assistance or continuing education credits.
Salary Growth Outlook
Wage growth is expected to align with national healthcare demand increases, potentially leading to higher salaries for experienced CMAs.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight any specialized skills or certifications beyond basic requirements.
- •Discuss performance-based incentives during the interview process.
Job Market in North Dakota
In North Dakota, the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) job market is experiencing growth, driven by an increasing demand for healthcare services due to an aging population and expanded healthcare facilities. Despite the national growth rate of 12.5% for CMAs, North Dakota's growth may exceed this due to its rural healthcare expansion and ongoing initiatives to improve healthcare access in underserved areas.
Top Hiring Areas
Largest city with major hospitals and clinics.
State capital with growing healthcare needs.
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with budget cycles of major healthcare providers
Opportunities
- Expansion in telehealth services
- Specialization in chronic disease management
Challenges
- Recruitment in rural areas
- Retention of qualified CMAs
Training Programs in North Dakota
North Dakota offers several Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) training programs through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored initiatives. These programs prepare students for the CMA exam and a career in medical assisting.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 1-2 years | $4,000 - $10,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 9-12 months | $5,000 - $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Bismarck, North Dakota
High pass rates and comprehensive training
Wahpeton, North Dakota
Offers a faster track to certification
Online & Hybrid Options
Some programs offer hybrid formats combining online theory classes with in-person clinical practice.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify program accreditation to ensure eligibility for the CMA exam.
- •Consider program length and cost in relation to your career goals and financial situation.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Certified Medical Assistant program info for North Dakota
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
Varies
CE Hours
10 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Medical ethics, Patient care, Medical law
Out-of-State Reciprocity
North Dakota offers reciprocity for CMAs certified in other states, provided they meet North Dakota's standards and complete the necessary application process.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Current active certification in another state
- No disciplinary action on record
State Agreements
All states provided certification meets ND standards
Additional Exams
Not required if current certification meets ND standards
Application Process
Submit verification of current certification and application to ND Board of Nursing
Fees
Varies based on application details
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents submitted for licensing and renewal are complete and accurate to avoid delays
Stay updated on continuing education requirements to ensure compliance and timely renewal
Recommended Resources
CMA Exam Preparation Study Guide
This guide includes comprehensive reviews and practice questions to prepare for the CMA exam.
Medical Assistant Exam Prep
Offers practice tests and study materials tailored to the CMA exam's latest standards.
Kaplan's Medical Assisting Exam Review
Provides a detailed review of all tested subjects on the CMA exam with practice questions.
The Comprehensive Medical Assisting Review
Covers essential medical assisting knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and medical law, suitable for CMA exam preparation.
Blood Pressure Cuff and Stethoscope Kit
Necessary for learning and demonstrating proficiency in vital signs measurement, a key skill for CMAs.
Medical Assistant Practice Injection Pad
Used to simulate injection procedures during training, enhancing hands-on learning for students.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-12
- North Dakota Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-12
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-12