Key Points

• Texas CNA exam is administered by Prometric/Credentia
• Full exam cost is typically $125–$135
• Written test has 60 multiple-choice questions (90 minutes; 120 minutes for oral)
• Skills exam requires performing 5 tested skills, including required hand hygiene
• You get three total attempts to pass both parts before retaking a CNA program
• Required for placement on the Texas Nurse Aide Registry

What the Texas CNA Exam Is

The Texas CNA exam measures your readiness to provide safe, direct care in long-term care settings. It includes a:

• Written (Knowledge) Test: 60 questions, computer-based
• Skills (Clinical) Test: Performance of 5 CNA skills using Texas-approved checklists

You must pass both parts to become a certified CNA and appear on the Texas Nurse Aide Registry.

Texas CNA Exam Requirements

To take the CNA exam in Texas, you must have completed a state-approved CNA training program (NATCEP) within the past two years. The standard NATCEP structure includes:

• 60 hours of classroom instruction
• 40 hours of clinical training
• Program director approval in TULIP
• Background check and identity verification

If you still need a training program, these guides can help:

• Become a CNA in 3 easy steps
• Become a CNA in High School

You may also qualify to “challenge” the exam without additional training if you:

• Completed 100+ hours of military healthcare training equivalent to CNA training
• Finished an RN or LVN program within the past two years
• Are currently enrolled in an RN or LVN program
• Completed a CNA program in another state within two years
• Hold an expired CNA certificate but have not worked in nursing for the past two years

Reciprocity

If you are a CNA in another state, you may be eligible to transfer your certification without retesting. See official details on the Texas HHS website.

Documentation Required

• Social Security Number
• Two valid photo IDs (primary + secondary)

How to Register for the Texas CNA Exam

Step 1: Your Program Confirms Eligibility

After you finish your CNA class, your school notifies Prometric through TULIP that you are eligible to test.

Step 2: Receive Prometric Login Access

Prometric emails your login credentials for the Texas Nurse Aide portal. From there, you can:

• Complete your application
• Choose a testing center
• Select your exam date
• Pay the exam fees

If you are not ready to schedule because you still need training, review How to Become a CNA in Texas or explore CNA classes near me for guidance.

Exam Cost

• Written: $35
• Oral: $45
• Skills: $90
• Spanish version: $135 total

Rescheduling Policies

• $25 reschedule fee if changed 5–29 days before your test
• Cancelling <5 days before your test forfeits your fee

The written exam may be taken online (if approved) or at a test center. The clinical skills exam must be completed in person.

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What to Expect on the Texas CNA Exam

The exam includes two required sections.

Written Exam

• 60 multiple-choice questions
• 90 minutes (120 minutes for oral version)
• Covers:
  • Infection control
  • Personal care
  • Safety procedures
  • Basic nursing skills
  • Communication
  • Resident rights
  • Mental health and emotional needs

You’ll see your score immediately after finishing.

Clinical Skills Exam

You will perform 5 tested skills, including:

• Hand hygiene (always tested)
• Indirect care
• One measurement skill (pulse, BP, respirations, weight, etc.)
• Three randomly selected resident-care skills

Common examples:

• Catheter care
• Perineal care
• Ambulation with gait belt
• Feeding a resident
• Bed-to-wheelchair transfer
• Range-of-motion exercises

Even small omissions — such as forgetting privacy, failing to check water temperature, or missing a critical safety step — can lead to failing the skill.