How does the Arizona CNA exam work?
Updated · Reviewed against official sources
Arizona's nurse aide competency exam has two parts you must pass: a knowledge test (written, or oral if you choose — federal rules require that option) and a hands-on skills test. The testing program and its candidate handbook are linked from Arizona State Board of Nursing's official page. Passing gets you listed on the Arizona nurse aide registry.
| Item | Detail | Official source |
|---|---|---|
| Credential | Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) / Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) | Arizona State Board of Nursing — Licenses and certifications |
| State agency | Arizona State Board of Nursing | Official page |
| Testing vendor | Named in your candidate handbook | Arizona State Board of Nursing — Licenses and certifications |
| Oral option | Yes — you may choose an oral exam instead of written | 42 CFR 483.154 |
| Attempts | At least three opportunities (state may set further rules) | 42 CFR 483.154 |
Your state's nurse aide candidate handbook is the authority on exam format, skills lists and scoring. This page explains the general picture and links the official sources.
Steps to get certified in Arizona
- Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program (federal minimum: 75 clock hours including 16 supervised practical hours), unless your state accepts another route.
- Apply and schedule your exam through the testing program described in the Arizona candidate handbook.
- Pass the knowledge test (written or oral) and the skills test.
- Confirm your listing on the Arizona nurse aide registry before you start work.
What's specific to Arizona
Arizona has two nursing assistant tiers, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA). The Board's pages explain which one applies to you and link the testing program's handbook.
How to prepare
The knowledge test covers standard nurse aide topics: residents' rights, infection control, safety, personal care, basic nursing skills, communication, mental health, the aide's role, vital signs and nutrition. Take the free 20-question practice test to see your weakest topics, rehearse every skill with our skills checklists, and do a timed full exam the week before.
Quick answers
- What's the difference between a CNA and an LNA in Arizona?
- They're two Board of Nursing credentials with different requirements; the Board's website explains both.
- How do I get testing accommodations in Arizona?
- Request them through the testing program as its handbook describes. See oral exam and accommodations.
- Can I take the Arizona CNA exam orally?
- Yes. Federal rules require that candidates can choose an oral exam instead of the written one. The candidate handbook explains how to request it.
- How many times can I take the Arizona CNA exam?
- Federal rules guarantee at least three opportunities to pass the competency evaluation; check the handbook for retest fees, waiting periods and retraining rules.
What to do next
Find your weak topics before Arizona test day — free, no sign-up, about 15 minutes.
Take the free practice testRelated
Other states
Sources
- Arizona State Board of Nursing — Licenses and certifications
- 42 CFR 483.154 — Nurse aide competency evaluation (Cornell LII)
- 42 CFR 483.152 — Nurse aide training requirements (Cornell LII)
Checked: . Rules, fees and vendors change — always confirm with your state's official page and candidate handbook.