How to Get a Medical Assistant License in North Dakota
Last updated: March 2, 2026
North Dakota is a market influenced by energy sector employment and steady growth in Fargo, making it an excellent place to start a career as a medical assistant. Licensing in North Dakota is overseen by the No state licensing required. The process requires 720 hours of pre-license education and costs between $6,500 and $7,500 in total. You'll need to pass the CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) (administered by No state licensing required) with a score of at least 70%.
At 720 hours, North Dakota has one of the higher pre-license education requirements in the country. This is close to the national average of 720 hours. Budget between $6,500 and $7,500 for the total licensing process, including education, application, and exam fees. Most aspiring medical assistants complete the entire process in 4-7 months, depending on how quickly they move through the coursework and exam preparation.
North Dakota Medical Assistant License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Pre-License Education | 720 hours |
| Degree Required | No |
| Exam Required | Yes — CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Background Check | Yes |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $0 |
| Exam Fee | $250 |
| Governing Body | No state licensing required |
| License Reciprocity | Partial |
Reciprocity:
Steps to Get Your Medical Assistant License in North Dakota
- 1
Complete a Medical Assistant Program
Certificate programs take 9-12 months; associate degree programs take 2 years.
Time: 9 months to 2 years Cost: $350 - 2
Pass the CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT)
Register and pass a national certification exam. The CMA (through AAMA) and RMA (through AMT) are the most recognized. The exam fee is $250.
Time: 2-4 weeks to schedule Cost: $250 - 3
Obtain CPR/BLS Certification
Get certified in CPR and Basic Life Support through the American Heart Association or American Red Cross. Most employers require this.
Time: 1 day Cost: $75 - 4
Complete Background Check
Most healthcare employers require a criminal background check and drug screening as part of the hiring process.
Time: 1-2 weeks Cost: $50 - 5
Begin Your Medical Assistant Career
Once certified, you can work as a medical assistant in North Dakota. Most MAs work in physician offices, outpatient clinics, and hospitals performing both clinical and administrative tasks.
Time: Immediate once certified
Key Things to Know
- Education requirement: . Many providers offer online options, giving you flexibility to study on your own schedule.
- The licensing exam: The CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) is administered by No state licensing required. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Background check required: North Dakota requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
- Online application available: North Dakota accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 60 hours of continuing education every 5 years. .
How North Dakota Compares
North Dakota requires 720 hours of pre-license education for medical assistants. This is close to the national average of 720 hours. The average total cost in North Dakota is around $7,000, compared to the national average of $8,370.
How Much Does a Medical Assistant License Cost in North Dakota?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $0 |
| Exam Fee | $250 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $6,500 - $7,500 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 5 years
- Continuing Education: 60 hours
- CE Details:
- Renewal Fee: $0
Tips for Success
- Choose your education provider carefully: Compare prices, format (online vs. in-person), and reviews. Some providers offer exam prep materials bundled with the course, which can save you money. Check the No state licensing required website for a list of approved providers.
- Don't rush the exam: With 720 hours of required coursework, consider a structured schedule — completing one course at a time helps avoid burnout. Use practice exams to identify weak areas before scheduling your test date.
- CMA vs RMA — pick the right certification: The CMA (AAMA) is the most recognized and requires graduation from a CAAHEP or ABHES-accredited program. The RMA (AMT) has more flexible eligibility. Both are accepted by major healthcare employers.
- Specialize to earn more: Medical assistants can specialize in dermatology, ophthalmology, podiatry, or other areas. Specialized MAs in high-demand fields earn 15-25% more. Consider additional certifications like phlebotomy or EKG.
- Budget approximately $7,500 for your North Dakota license: This includes $0 in application fees, $250 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $0 in renewal fees every 5 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a medical assistant license in North Dakota?
Most people complete the process in 3-6 months total. The pre-license education (720 hours) takes the longest. After completing education, the exam and application process typically adds 2-6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a medical assistant license in North Dakota?
The total cost ranges from $6,500 to $7,500, including pre-license education, the application fee ($0), and the exam fee ($250).
Can I get a North Dakota medical assistant license with a criminal record?
The No state licensing required evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offenses may affect your eligibility. Contact the No state licensing required for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a medical assistant in North Dakota?
No. North Dakota does not require a college degree. You only need to complete the 720 hours of approved pre-license courses.
Can I take the pre-license courses online in North Dakota?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the No state licensing required website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
- Official website: No state licensing required