How does the Michigan CNA exam work?
Updated · Reviewed against official sources
Michigan'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 Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs's official page. Passing gets you listed on the Michigan nurse aide registry.
| Item | Detail | Official source |
|---|---|---|
| Credential | Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) | Michigan LARA — Nurse Aide Registry |
| State agency | Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Bureau of Community and Health Systems | Official page |
| Testing vendor | Named in your candidate handbook | Michigan LARA — Nurse Aide Registry |
| 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 Michigan
- 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 Michigan candidate handbook.
- Pass the knowledge test (written or oral) and the skills test.
- Confirm your listing on the Michigan nurse aide registry before you start work.
What's specific to Michigan
Michigan's nurse aide pages explain the competency evaluation and link the current candidate handbook from the state-approved testing program.
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 happens if I fail the Michigan CNA exam twice?
- Michigan's retest and retraining rules are in its candidate handbook; federal rules guarantee at least three opportunities. See failing 3 times.
- Can I get testing accommodations in Michigan?
- Yes, accommodations are requested through the testing program per its handbook. See oral exam and accommodations.
- Can I take the Michigan 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 Michigan 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 Michigan test day — free, no sign-up, about 15 minutes.
Take the free practice testRelated
Other states
Sources
- Michigan LARA — Nurse Aide Registry
- 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.