What does CNA stand for?
CNA stands for Certified Nursing Assistant.
This abbreviation also refers to the mandatory exam for those who wish to become nursing assistants.
What Is the CNA exam?
The CNA exam is the certification exam necessary to become a nursing assistant.
Is the CNA certification exam the same nationwide?
The CNA exam is not the same nationwide.
Each state sets its guidelines and requirements for the CNA exam.
How much does the CNA exam cost?
The CNA exam cost can differ from one state to another.
The average cost for the exam is between $80 and $100.
Remember that this does not include the cost of the training program you need to follow before taking the exam. Such a program can cost anywhere from $500 to $1000.
Can you take the CNA without following a training program?
Whether or not you can take the CNA exam without following a training program beforehand depends on the state.
Certain states, such as Florida, only require a high school diploma as a prerequisite for taking the CNA exam.
Where can I take the CNA exam?
You can take the CNA exam at multiple locations throughout the US.
These locations include colleges, Prometric testing centers, hospitals, and nursing homes.
To see what options are available to you, check the availability on your state's Department of Public Health website.
When should I take the CNA exam?
You can take the CNA exam at any point during your lifetime as long as you have completed your state's requirements.
Some of these requirements might include completing a training program, having a high school diploma or its equivalent, and being a certain age (typically, the minimum age required is between 16 and 18).
Make sure to check your state's guidelines on the Department of Public Health website.
Can I retake the CNA exam?
You can retake the CNA exam.
There are no special circumstances required. You can sign up for a retake at any time.
How many times can I take the CNA exam?
You can retake the CNA exam up to three times after your initial attempt.
All attempts have to be made within two years of your first attempt/of the completion of your training.
Keep in mind that different states may have different guidelines for their retakes. Carefully read the requirements of your state before registering.
Do I need to retake all sections of the CNA exam?
No, you do not need to retake all the sections of the CNA exam.
Most states allow you to retake only the section that you have failed. For instance, if you pass the clinical skills portion but fail the written portion, you only need to retake the written exam.
Remember to check your state's guidelines and regulations before registering.
How soon can I retake the CNA exam?
Usually, you need to wait 30 days from your initial attempt to retake the CNA exam.
Remember that some states might have different guidelines, so always check your state's requirements and policies.
Can I reschedule my CNA exam?
You can reschedule your CNA exam.
The method for rescheduling will vary depending on your exam provider.
If you are testing through Prometric or Credentia, you can reschedule from your account. Usually, there is no additional fee required.
If you are testing through another provider, they should also have this option available to you on their website. Depending on the state, you might need to contact the Nurse Aide's office.
Typically, you will need to reschedule your exam at least 48 hours and up to 30 days before your original exam. This time window differs depending on your provider and/or state, so be sure to check with your state/provider.
Usually, if you comply with the rescheduling window, your exam fee will be transferred to your new date. This means that you will not have to pay another registration fee. If you fail to comply, your fee cannot be transferred.
What do I do if I miss my CNA exam because of an emergency?
If you miss your CNA exam because of an emergency, you can reschedule.
If you take your exam through Credentia, you have at least 14 days to submit an absence form.
You will have to provide documentation that verifies your motive for missing the exam. This will allow you to reschedule your exam and transfer your initial fee if your form is approved.
This process may differ depending on your state/provider. Always check with them before registering.
Can I challenge the CNA exam?
You can challenge the CNA exam.
Most states will allow you to do so. However, make sure you check their requirements prior to registering.
How many times is the CNA exam offered per year?
There is no specific number of times the CNA exam is offered per year.
Each institution/testing center will have its schedule around examination periods. Check the guidelines of your exam provider to see what dates are available to you.
