What is the CNA certification exam?

The CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) certification exam is a two-part competency test required to work as a nursing assistant in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. It is administered by state-approved testing vendors: Credentia delivers the NNAAP (National Nurse Aide Assessment Program) in about 14 states plus DC, while other states use Prometric, D&SDT-Headmaster, or their own state-run tests. Passing the exam places you on your state's Nurse Aide Registry, which is required by federal law under OBRA (Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) for all nursing assistants working in Medicare- or Medicaid-certified facilities.

How many questions are on the CNA written exam?

The CNA written (or oral) exam typically contains 60-70 multiple-choice questions, though the exact number varies by state and testing vendor. The NNAAP exam, which Credentia gives in about 14 states plus DC, has 70 questions (60 scored + 10 pretest) covering topics such as Activities of Daily Living, basic nursing skills, residents' rights, communication, and safety/emergency procedures. The NNAAP allows 2 hours for the written portion; Prometric's 60-question written test allows 90 minutes.

What is the CNA passing score?

The CNA written exam typically requires a score of 70-75% or higher to pass (the NNAAP scores 60 of its 70 items, and the other 10 are unscored pretest questions; Credentia does not publish one national NNAAP passing percentage). For the clinical skills portion, you must perform every assigned skill satisfactorily, including all critical steps. You must pass both the written and skills portions to receive certification. If you fail one part, most states allow you to retake only the failed section without repeating the other.

What are the two parts of the CNA exam?

Nurse aide competency testing generally includes a knowledge test and a clinical skills evaluation. The approved state program and vendor determine the question count, oral-test options, timing, assigned tasks and passing requirements. Use the current applicable candidate handbook and pass the required components for your certification route.

How long does CNA training take?

CNA training programs range from 4-12 weeks, depending on the state and program format. Federal law (OBRA) requires a minimum of 75 hours of training, including at least 16 hours of supervised clinical practice. However, many states exceed this minimum: California requires 160 hours, New York requires 100 hours, and Florida requires 120 hours. Programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and many nursing homes (the American Red Cross ended its Nurse Assistant Training program after December 31, 2023). Some employers offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.

How much does CNA certification cost?

Total CNA certification costs range from $600 to $2,500 and include: training program ($500-2,000, though many employers and workforce programs offer free training), exam fee ($100-150 for both written and skills tests), background check ($30-100), state registration fee ($25-75), and sometimes costs for scrubs, a stethoscope, and textbooks ($50-150). Many nursing homes cover all training and testing costs for candidates who commit to working at their facility for a set period.

What clinical skills are tested on the CNA exam?

Use your state vendor’s current task list. Programs may test personal care, transfers, measurements, range of motion and other nurse aide skills, but task selection and mandatory tasks differ. Practise each applicable checklist and its key steps rather than assuming every program assigns five tasks or uses the same list.

How do I prepare for the CNA skills test?

Practise with a partner using your state vendor’s current task-specific checklists. Follow its rules for demonstrated or announced hand hygiene, required task order, safety steps, timing and permitted corrections. Have a partner score your practice against those exact instructions; a generic checklist cannot establish the official passing standard.

What happens if I fail the CNA exam?

If you fail the CNA exam, you can retake it. Most states allow you to retake only the portion you failed (written or skills) without repeating the passed portion. You typically must wait at least 1-2 days before retaking. Most states require you to pass within 2 years of completing your training program (some states allow 3 attempts within that period). There is a retake fee ($50-100 per attempt). If you exhaust all attempts or exceed the time limit, you may need to repeat the entire training program.

How many times can I retake the CNA exam?

Most states allow 3 attempts to pass each portion of the CNA exam within a defined eligibility window, often 2 years from training completion. California allows 3 attempts to pass each portion within 2 years of training-program completion. The retake fee varies by state and testing vendor. If you fail the written exam, review the content areas where you scored lowest. If you fail the skills test, focus on the specific skills you missed and practice the critical steps until they become automatic. After exhausting attempts or exceeding the time limit, most states require a new training program.

Is CNA certification valid in all states?

CNA certification is state-specific, not nationally recognized. However, most states offer reciprocity (endorsement), allowing you to transfer your certification to another state. To transfer, you must be in good standing on your current state's Nurse Aide Registry, have no findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation, and meet the new state's requirements. Some states require additional training hours, a new background check, or a competency evaluation. The process typically takes 2-6 weeks. Check with both your current and destination state's nursing board for specific reciprocity requirements.

How long is CNA certification valid?

CNA certification is typically valid for 2 years, though this varies by state (some states require annual renewal). To maintain certification, you must work at least 8 hours of paid nursing-related services during each 24-month period and complete any required continuing education (typically 12-48 hours per renewal period depending on the state). If your certification lapses, most states require you to retake and pass the competency exam to be reinstated on the Nurse Aide Registry. Keeping your certification current is essential for employment.

What are residents' rights (OBRA)?

Residents' rights are federal protections established by OBRA (Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987) that guarantee the dignity and well-being of nursing home residents. Key rights include: the right to be treated with dignity and respect, the right to privacy (during care, visits, phone calls, and mail), the right to make personal choices (clothing, schedule, activities), the right to be informed about care and medical condition, the right to refuse treatment, the right to be free from abuse/neglect/restraints, the right to manage personal finances, the right to voice grievances without fear of retaliation, and the right to participate in care planning. CNAs must know and protect these rights in daily practice.

What is the scope of practice for a CNA?

A CNA's scope of practice includes: assisting with Activities of Daily Living (bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding, toileting, ambulation), measuring and recording vital signs, performing range-of-motion exercises, repositioning and transferring patients, recording intake and output, applying non-medicated skin care, maintaining a clean and safe environment, and reporting observations to the nurse. CNAs may NOT: administer medications, perform assessments or nursing diagnoses, insert or remove tubes (IV, catheter, NG tube), change sterile dressings, give injections, or make care plan decisions. The CNA always works under the supervision of a licensed nurse (RN or LPN).

How much does a CNA earn?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for CNAs in the United States is approximately $38,200 (as of 2024), or about $18.36 per hour. Salaries vary significantly by location and setting: the highest-paying states include Alaska ($46,000+), New York ($44,000+), and California ($43,000+). Hospital CNAs generally earn more than those in nursing homes or home health. Night and weekend shifts often include differential pay of $1-3 per hour extra. CNA employment is projected to grow 4% from 2022-2032, with strong demand driven by the aging population.

Can a CNA become an RN?

Yes, many CNAs use their experience as a stepping stone to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN). Common pathways include: completing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN, 2 years) and passing the NCLEX-RN, or earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN, 4 years). Some programs offer LPN bridge programs (CNA to LPN in 1 year, then LPN to RN in 1-2 years). CNA experience is valuable for nursing school applications and provides a strong clinical foundation. Many employers offer tuition assistance or reimbursement for CNAs pursuing nursing degrees.

What is the difference between a CNA and an LPN?

CNAs and LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurses) differ in education, scope, and pay. CNAs complete a 4-12 week training program (75-175 hours) and assist with basic care like bathing, feeding, and vital signs under nurse supervision. LPNs complete a 12-month program (approximately 1,500 hours) and can administer medications, perform wound care, insert catheters, and develop care plans under RN supervision. CNAs earn a median of $38,200/year while LPNs earn approximately $59,730/year. LPNs have significantly more clinical autonomy and responsibility, but CNAs serve as the essential foundation of hands-on patient care.

What are the most common CNA clinical skills tested?

Task lists can include personal care, transfers, measurements and range of motion, but the assigned tasks and their frequency depend on the testing program. Check the current handbook for mandatory tasks and task-selection rules. Follow its precise hand-hygiene instructions, including when demonstration or announcement is required.

Do CNAs need to know vital signs normal ranges?

Yes, CNAs must know normal vital sign ranges and when to report abnormalities to the nurse immediately. Normal adult ranges are: temperature 97.8-99.1 degrees F (36.5-37.3 degrees C) orally; pulse 60-100 beats per minute (regular rhythm); respirations 12-20 breaths per minute (unlabored); blood pressure systolic 90-120 mmHg and diastolic 60-80 mmHg; and pulse oximetry (SpO2) 95-100%. Report immediately if: temperature is above 101 degrees F or below 97 degrees F, pulse is above 100 or below 60 (or irregular), respirations are above 24 or below 10, systolic BP is above 160 or below 90, or SpO2 is below 90%.

Is this free CNA prep as good as paid courses?

Our free CNA prep covers the same competency areas tested on state certification exams, including all NNAAP content domains: Activities of Daily Living, basic nursing skills, residents' rights, communication, and safety procedures. Paid CNA prep courses typically cost $30-100 and offer similar practice questions. Our platform adds AI-powered features that most paid courses lack: instant explanations for wrong answers, AI hints on difficult questions, and an AI study assistant available for 10 free questions daily. All study content is regularly updated and completely free.

What's included for free?

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.

Why is the content free?

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.

Is the content up to date?

We aim to reflect publicly available exam outlines and topic information in our study resources. Coverage, format, and difficulty may differ from the actual exam, and we cannot guarantee that every detail is accurate or current. Confirm exam requirements, fees, and policies with the official exam sponsor.

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Free CNA Exam Prep

Certified Nursing Assistant

Prepare for the CNA exam without spending hundreds on expensive prep courses. Free study guides, practice questions, flashcards, and related exam resources.

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Updated January 2026

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CNA Certified Nursing Assistant

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CNA CNA: Study Roadmap

Follow this path to organize your exam preparation

Complete CNA Training Program

Enroll in and complete a state-approved CNA training program (75-175 hours). Includes classroom instruction and supervised clinical practice.

hours

Personal Care & Basic Nursing SkillsYou are here

Master bathing, grooming, vital signs, positioning, transfers, nutrition, and mobility — these make up 36% of the written exam.

hours

Safety, Infection Control & Communication

Study hand hygiene, PPE, fall prevention, fire safety, body mechanics, reporting, and documentation (36% of exam).

hours

Clinical Skills Practice & Written Review

Practise the exact skills and scoring checklists published by your state’s testing vendor, including its rules for hand hygiene, task selection and permitted corrections. Review the applicable knowledge blueprint separately.

hours

Estimated total study time

75 hours

That's about 8 weeks at 10 hours/week

Can You Take the CNA Exam?

Check if you meet the basic eligibility requirements

Age

16-18 years or older (varies by state)

Education

Complete a state-approved CNA training program (75-175 hours depending on state)

Background Check

Required in most states

Fingerprinting

Required in most states

Additional Requirements

•Training program must include both classroom and clinical components
•Must pass both written/oral test AND clinical skills evaluation
•Background check must be clear of disqualifying offenses (abuse, neglect, theft)
•Training is offered through state-approved programs at community colleges, vocational schools and nursing facilities (the American Red Cross ended its Nurse Assistant Training program after December 31, 2023)

CNA Quick Facts

Time to Get Licensed

2-6 weeks after completing training

From start to license in hand

Exam Provider

Credentia (NNAAP, in about 14 states plus DC; credentia.com/test-takers lists AL, AK, CA, CO, GA, IA, MD, NC, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA and WA), Prometric, D&SDT-Headmaster, or a state-run test (varies by state)

In-Person Only

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Retake Policy

Most states allow 3 attempts within 2 years of completing training. You only retake the portion you failed. After exhausting attempts, you must retrain.

Total Cost Breakdown

Exam Fee$100-150 (varies by state — written + skills combined)

Background Check$25-75 (varies by state)

Pre-License Education$500-1,500 (CNA training program, varies widely)

Total Estimated Cost$625-1,725 total (training + exam + background check)

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What You'll Study

9 chapters covering the exam topics in this guide

Introduction to the CNA Exam

4 sections

Role and Responsibilities

6 sections

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

6 sections

Infection Control

6 sections

Safety and Emergency Procedures

6 sections

Personal Care Skills

6 sections

Basic Nursing Skills

6 sections

Mental Health and Cognitive Care

5 sections

Legal and Ethical Considerations

6 sections

CNA Exam Details

Certified Nursing Assistant

Administered by State Nurse Aide Registries (NNAAP via Credentia; some states use Prometric or D&S Diversified)

Official Source

Meet the applicable knowledge cut score and skills rubric; requirements vary by state and vendor.

Passing Score

State-

Questions

State-

Time Limit

$100-150 (varies by state)

Exam Fee

Study time: 50-100 hours

Prerequisites: Complete approved CNA training program (75-175 hours)

Valid for: 2 years (renewable)

Exam Content Breakdown

Based on the official State Nurse Aide Registries (NNAAP via Credentia; some states use Prometric or D&S Diversified) content outline

Personal Care Skills18%

Bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, perineal care

Basic Nursing Skills18%

Vital signs, positioning, transfers, nutrition, mobility

Infection Control12%

Hand hygiene, PPE, standard precautions, transmission-based precautions

Safety & Emergency12%

Fall prevention, fire safety, body mechanics, emergency response

Communication12%

Verbal/nonverbal, reporting, documentation, therapeutic communication

Role & Responsibilities12%

Scope of practice, delegation, healthcare team, professionalism

Mental Health8%

Dementia care, Alzheimer's, depression, behavioral interventions

Legal & Ethical8%

Residents' rights, HIPAA, advance directives, abuse reporting

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What's Next After the CNA?

After passing the CNA, you can pursue these career paths

NCLEX-PN

Licensed practical nurse

NCLEX-RN

Registered nurse (via bridge program)

Home Health Aide

Home care certification

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Official State Nurse Aide Registries (NNAAP via Credentia; some states use Prometric or D&S Diversified) Resources

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Nevada CNA

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CNA CNA: Study Roadmap

Complete CNA Training Program

Personal Care & Basic Nursing SkillsYou are here

Safety, Infection Control & Communication

Clinical Skills Practice & Written Review

Can You Take the CNA Exam?

CNA Quick Facts

Time to Get Licensed

Exam Provider

Retake Policy

Total Cost Breakdown

Free CNA Prep Tools

298+ Practice Questions

AI Tutor Explains Mistakes

Independent Study Resources

$0 Forever

What You'll Study

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

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

NCLEX-RN

Home Health Aide

CNA Exam FAQ

What is the CNA certification exam?

How many questions are on the CNA written exam?

What is the CNA passing score?

What are the two parts of the CNA exam?

How long does CNA training take?

How much does CNA certification cost?

What clinical skills are tested on the CNA exam?

How do I prepare for the CNA skills test?

What happens if I fail the CNA exam?

How many times can I retake the CNA exam?

Is CNA certification valid in all states?

How long is CNA certification valid?

What are residents' rights (OBRA)?

What is the scope of practice for a CNA?

How much does a CNA earn?

Can a CNA become an RN?

What is the difference between a CNA and an LPN?

What are the most common CNA clinical skills tested?

Do CNAs need to know vital signs normal ranges?

Is this free CNA prep as good as paid courses?

What's included for free?

Why is the content free?

Is the content up to date?

Compare the CNA

Official State Nurse Aide Registries (NNAAP via Credentia; some states use Prometric or D&S Diversified) Resources

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