Key Points
- Texas requires a 140-hour state-approved training program, which includes 100 classroom hours that can be completed online.
- Applicants must be at least 18, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
- You must hold a CNA certification or have at least 90 days of recent direct care experience in a licensed facility.
- Applications must be submitted through the TULIP online portal no later than 20 days after enrolling in a training program.
- The combined application and exam fee is $25.
- The Medication Aide exam includes 100 multiple-choice questions with one free retake.
- The average wage for the related role of Nursing Assistant is $37,010 per year in Texas.
- Permits must be renewed annually. A permit expired for more than one year cannot be renewed, requiring you to retrain and retest.
How to Become a Certified Medication Aide in Texas
Step 1: Meet the Texas Medication Aide Requirements
Before enrolling in a training program, you must satisfy all HHS eligibility standards. You must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a high school diploma or GED
- Be able to read, write, speak, and understand English
- Be free of communicable diseases and in suitable physical and mental health to safely administer medications (txrules.elaws.us)
- Hold an active CNA certification or have been employed for at least 90 days in the past 12 months as a non-licensed direct care staff member
- Be employed in a licensed facility on the first day of training
- Not be listed on the Employee Misconduct Registry (EMR) or have a revoked/suspended status on the Nurse Aide Registry (NAR)
Additionally, all applicants must submit fingerprints for a mandatory criminal history background check through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the FBI before they can take the exam.
If you meet these requirements, you can enroll in an approved Medication Aide course.
Compare Medication Aide training options on Dreambound to find programs that fit your schedule and location.
Step 2: Complete a State-Approved 140-Hour Medication Aide Program
Texas HHS mandates a structured 140-hour training program that must be completed in a specific sequence. The curriculum consists of:
- 100 hours of classroom instruction: This portion covers topics like pharmacology, medication safety, and infection control. Under state rules, these hours can be completed in person or through online instruction.
- 20 hours of skills laboratory demonstration: Hands-on practice of medication administration techniques under supervision.
- 10 hours of clinical experience: Supervised practice in a licensed healthcare facility.
- 10 hours of final skills laboratory demonstration: A concluding lab session to ensure competency.
Only programs approved by HHS qualify you for certification. While HHS does not publish a single statewide list of all approved providers, these courses are offered by community colleges, technical schools, and healthcare facilities across Texas.
Step 3: Apply for the Texas Medication Aide Certification Exam
As of September 18, 2024, all applications must be submitted through the Texas Unified License Information Portal (TULIP).
You must submit your complete application through the portal no later than 20 days after enrolling in your training program. The application requires your personal information, proof of training enrollment, and a $25 combined permit and examination fee.
Submitting your application early is critical to avoid delays in your exam scheduling and certification.
Step 4: Pass the Texas Medication Aide Exam
The Texas Medication Aide exam is a 100-question multiple-choice test that assesses your knowledge of:
- Safe medication administration
- Medication classifications and side effects
- Federal and state regulations
- Proper documentation and reporting
- Resident rights and safety
Key exam facts:
- You are allowed to retake the exam once at no additional cost.
- If you fail the exam twice, you are required to retake the entire 140-hour training program.
- Statewide pass rates for the exam are not publicly published by HHSC or its testing vendors.
Step 5: Get Your Medication Aide Permit in Texas
After you pass the exam and your background check is cleared, HHS will issue your official Medication Aide permit. Your name will also be added to the Texas Medication Aide Registry, which allows employers to verify your active status.
Your permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued and allows you to work in settings like nursing homes and long-term care facilities.
Step 6: Maintain and Renew Your Medication Aide Permit
Texas requires you to renew your Medication Aide permit annually to remain active.
First renewal:
- No continuing education required
- Renewal fee: $15
Subsequent renewals:
- You must complete 7 hours of HHS-approved continuing education (CE) each year.
- The on-time renewal fee is $15
- Late fees are $22.50 (1–90 days late) or $30 (91–365 days late).
Crucially, a permit that has been expired for one year or more cannot be renewed. You must re-apply, complete a new training program, and pass the exam again.
How to Pay for Medication Aide Training in Texas
Several financial aid options can help cover the cost of your training. While short, non-credit programs are typically not eligible for federal Pell Grants, you can explore other resources:
