Question 1

What is the CNA exam?

Accepted Answer

The CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) exam is a two-part certification test required to work as a nursing assistant in healthcare facilities. It consists of a written/oral exam (60-70 questions) and a clinical skills demonstration (3-5 skills). Certification is regulated at the state level.

Question 2

What is the CNA exam passing score?

Accepted Answer

The CNA exam requires 70% or higher on the written portion and 100% accuracy on each clinical skill. You must pass both portions to receive certification. If you fail one portion, most states allow you to retake just that section.

Question 3

How many skills are tested on the CNA exam?

Accepted Answer

You'll demonstrate 3-5 randomly selected clinical skills from a skills list of 20-25 possible skills. Common skills include hand hygiene (almost always tested), vital signs measurement, patient transfers, personal care, and infection control procedures.

Question 4

What are the critical steps on the CNA skills exam?

Accepted Answer

Critical steps vary by skill but always include: proper hand hygiene before and after, patient identification, explaining the procedure, maintaining privacy and dignity, and ensuring patient safety. Missing any critical step results in failing that skill.

Question 5

How long should I study for the CNA exam?

Accepted Answer

Most candidates study 50-100 hours over 2-4 weeks after completing their training program (75-180 hours depending on state). Focus on understanding concepts for the written exam and practicing each skill repeatedly for the clinical portion.

Question 6

How much does CNA certification cost?

Accepted Answer

Total costs include: training program ($500-2,000 or often free through employers/programs), exam fee ($100-150), background check ($30-100), and state registration ($25-75). Many employers and workforce programs cover training costs for committed candidates.

Question 7

What testing vendors administer the CNA exam?

Accepted Answer

Different states use different testing vendors: NNAAP (Nurse Aide Assessment Program) is most common, followed by Prometric, D&S Diversified, and Headmaster. Check with your state nursing board for your specific testing vendor.

Question 8

Can I transfer my CNA certification to another state?

Accepted Answer

Yes, through reciprocity (endorsement). Most states allow CNA certification transfer if you're in good standing and meet their requirements. You'll typically need to apply to the new state, provide verification of current certification, and may need additional training hours or a new background check.

Question 9

What's included for free?

Accepted Answer

All study guides, practice questions, and explanations are completely free. We also include 10 AI-powered questions daily. For unlimited AI assistance, you can upgrade to Pro.

Question 10

Why is the content free?

Accepted Answer

OpenExamPrep was founded by Ran Chen, a CFP® who passed multiple financial exams and believes quality exam prep shouldn't cost hundreds of dollars. With AI, we can create quality content at scale and make it accessible to everyone.

Question 11

Is the content up to date?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Our content is aligned with the latest exam outlines and updated regularly. Last update: January 2026.

CNA

Free CNA Exam Prep

CNA Exam Details

Certified Nursing Assistant

Exam Content Breakdown

What's Included

9 Chapters

Practice Quizzes

Free to Start

Quality Exam Prep Shouldn't Cost Hundreds

What's Next After the CNA?

NCLEX-PN

Home Health Aide

Medical Assistant

CNA Exam FAQ

Course Content

Introduction to the CNA Exam

Role and Responsibilities

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Infection Control

Safety and Emergency Procedures

Personal Care Skills

Basic Nursing Skills

Mental Health and Cognitive Care

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Official State Nursing Boards (NNAAP, Prometric, D&S Diversified) Resources

More Free Resources

Ready to Start Your Free CNA Prep?

CNA

1Introduction to the CNA Exam

2Role and Responsibilities

3Communication and Interpersonal Skills

4Infection Control

5Safety and Emergency Procedures

6Personal Care Skills

7Basic Nursing Skills

8Mental Health and Cognitive Care

9Legal and Ethical Considerations