CNA exam-day guide
CNA · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Your name must match your registration exactly. Acceptable forms vary by provider; confirm accepted ID types and whether a second ID is required with the provider.
Exam authorization or admission ticket
Bring the confirmation letter or email from your testing provider. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is required or an electronic copy is acceptable.
Watch with a second hand
You may need to time pulse and respirations during the skills portion. Confirm with the provider whether a watch is allowed or required, and whether smartwatches are prohibited.
Comfortable, professional clothing
Scrubs or plain, modest clothing are typical. Avoid loose sleeves, dangling jewelry, and strong fragrances. Confirm any dress code with the provider.
Closed-toe, non-skid shoes
You will stand and move during the skills test. Safety footwear helps prevent slips. Confirm whether shoes must be all-white or another color if the provider specifies.
Pen and pencil
The written portion may require a No. 2 pencil. Confirm with the provider whether writing instruments are supplied or you must bring your own.
Your state's candidate handbook or skills checklist
Review it before test day, but do not bring notes or study materials into the testing room. Confirm with the provider what materials are allowed at your seat.
Transportation plan and exact test location
Confirm the address, parking, and arrival time with the provider. Plan to arrive early; late arrivals may be turned away under provider policy.
Snack and water
Bring a light snack and water for before or after the exam. Confirm with the provider whether breaks are allowed and whether food or drink is permitted in the waiting area.
Hair tie or clip
Secure long hair for infection control during skills. Confirm with the provider whether any hair covering is required.
Knowledge of hand hygiene and standard precautions
Hand washing or hand sanitizing is typically the first critical step in skills. Review your state's exact steps and verbalize as required.
Plan the day
Re-read your state's skills checklist and practice each skill out loud, including hand hygiene, identifying the resident, and explaining steps. Gather your ID, authorization letter, watch, and clothing. Confirm your test date, time, and location with the provider.
Do a light review of critical safety steps (hand hygiene, infection control, resident privacy, body mechanics). Pack your bag with ID, authorization, watch, pen/pencil, snack, and comfortable shoes. Get a full night's sleep; avoid cramming new material.
Eat a normal breakfast and stay hydrated. Arrive at the testing site early, allowing extra time for parking and check-in. Bring your ID and authorization. Leave phone and smartwatch in your car or locker as directed.
Follow the proctor's instructions for ID verification and seating. Ask where to store personal items. Confirm with the provider whether you may ask questions during instructions.
Read each question fully and choose the best answer. Pace yourself; you can usually flag and return to questions if the platform allows. Follow the proctor's rules on breaks and leaving the room.
Listen carefully to the evaluator's instructions. Perform each skill in the order you were taught, verbalize key steps if required, and maintain safety and privacy throughout. If you are unsure of an instruction, ask for clarification only if the provider allows it.
Ask the proctor when and how results will be available. Do not discuss specific test content with others. Confirm with the provider how to schedule a retake if needed.
Rules to check
Bring the exact ID required by your provider; if your name or address has changed, confirm with the provider before test day whether additional documentation is needed.
Electronic devices, including phones and smartwatches, are typically prohibited in the testing room. Confirm with the provider where to store them and what the consequence of possession is.
Breaks are usually limited and may be scheduled by the proctor. Confirm with the provider whether unscheduled breaks are allowed and whether you can leave the building.
Scoring rules vary by state and provider. Typically you must pass both the written and skills portions; critical skills steps must be performed correctly. Confirm the exact passing standard and retake policy with your provider.
During the skills test, follow infection control and safety rules at all times. Do not perform a skill you have not been trained on; ask the evaluator if you do not understand an instruction, if permitted.
Maintain professional conduct with staff and other candidates. Arguing, disrupting the exam, or attempting to view others' answers can result in dismissal. Confirm the provider's conduct policy in the candidate handbook.
If you arrive late or without required identification, you may not be admitted and may forfeit your fee. Confirm the provider's late-arrival and rescheduling policy in advance.