Congratulations! You've completed your Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) class in Texas. But this is only part of the way through your journey. The next step is to pass the state's CNA exam. This guide will walk you through everything you need to do to successfully pass the test and become an official CNA. If you aren’t yet a CNA, read our guide on how to become a CNA in Texas.

‍

Requirements for the Texas CNA Exam

To take the CNA exam, you must have completed a state-approved CNA training program within the past two years. If you’re still looking for classes, Dreambound can help you find a CNA training program near you.

You might also qualify to "challenge" the exam under specific circumstances. You’re eligible if you:

• Completed 100+ hours of military training equivalent to a CNA program since July 1, 1989.

• Finished a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) program in the past two years.

• Completed a CNA program in another state within two years.

• Are currently enrolled in an RN or LVN program.

• Hold an expired CNA license and haven’t worked in nursing for the last two years.

If you’re a licensed CNA from another state, you may qualify for reciprocity and skip the test altogether. Learn more on the Texas HHS website.

Additionally, you’ll need a Social Security Number and two photo IDs to register.

‍

How to Register for the Texas CNA Exam

Your school will let Prometric know you are ready to take the exam after you complete your class. After they do that, you will get login information for  Prometric's portal. From there, you can complete your application, choose a testing location, and pay the exam fee.

• Cost: $125 for the full exam ($135 in Spanish).
• Rescheduling: You’ll need to pay a $25 fee if you reschedule 5-29 days before your exam. Rescheduling fewer than five days in advance forfeits your test fee.

You can take the written portion of the exam online or at a testing center, but the clinical portion must be done in person. ‍

What to Expect on the CNA Exam

The Texas CNA exam has two parts:

1. Written Exam:

• 60 multiple-choice questions.
• 90 minutes to complete (120 minutes if taken orally).

2. Clinical Skills Test:

• You’ll demonstrate three specific procedures, such as catheter care or pulse measurement, on another person.
• You must follow each step precisely. Even small errors can lead to lost points.
• Time varies but typically takes 30 minutes to an hour. ‍

What to Bring on Exam Day

Here’s what you’ll need when you arrive at the testing center:

• Authorization to Test Letter: Sent by Prometric after registration.
• Two photo IDs: A primary ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport) and a secondary ID (e.g., school ID or library card).
• Closed-toed, nonskid shoes: Scrubs are recommended but not mandatory.
• A watch with a second hand: Useful for procedures requiring time measurement.

Study Tips for Success

• Use Your School’s Materials: Review your class notes, textbook, and any practice exams provided.

• Take Practice Tests: Prometric offers practice exams to familiarize yourself with the test format.

• Practice Clinical Skills: Watch Texas-specific YouTube videos posted after 2020. Practice procedures on friends or family to simulate test conditions. ‍

What Happens If You Don’t Pass?

Don’t panic if you fail on your first attempt. Here’s what you need to know:

• You can retake each section up to three times before re-enrolling in a CNA class.
• Retake Costs: $35 for the written exam ($45 for oral/Spanish), $90 for the clinical portion. ‍

Additional Exam Tips

• Consider the Oral Exam Option: This gives you more time (120 minutes vs. 90 minutes) but may not necessarily improve your performance.
• Focus on Clinical Skills: Most candidates fail the clinical portion on their first try. Procedures like catheter care and perineal care are especially tricky—practice these thoroughly.
• Take the Test Quickly: The sooner you take the exam after completing your training, the better. Material is fresher in your mind, and you can start working at higher pay rates after passing.

Where can I find more information about the Texas CNA test?

You can find out more about the CNA exam by visiting the Prometric website. You can also contact Prometric at [email protected] or at 800.488.5787.

Conclusion

Passing the CNA exam can be stressful, but hopefully some of this information helped clear up any questions you might have. Soon you will be able to start working as a CNA and making a big difference in your patients’ lives!

Consider Dreambound as a valuable resource if you're thinking about getting started in this field. We've written many guides to help you:

• Become a CNA in 3 easy steps
• CNA classes near me
• Become a CNA in High School
• STNA in Ohio
• CNA in California
• CNA in Pennsylvania