How does the Texas CNA exam work?
Updated · Reviewed against official sources
Texas'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. Texas Health and Human Services Commission names Prometric as the testing vendor. Passing gets you listed on the Texas nurse aide registry.
| Item | Detail | Official source |
|---|---|---|
| Credential | Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) | Texas HHSC — Nurse Aide Registry |
| State agency | Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), Nurse Aide Registry | Official page |
| Testing vendor | Prometric | Texas HHSC — Become a certified nurse aide in Texas |
| Knowledge test | 60 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes (oral option available) | Texas Nurse Aide Candidate Information Bulletin (Prometric) |
| Skills test | 5 clinical skills | Texas Nurse Aide Candidate Information Bulletin (Prometric) |
| 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 Texas
- 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 Texas candidate handbook.
- Pass the knowledge test (written or oral) and the skills test.
- Confirm your listing on the Texas nurse aide registry before you start work.
What's specific to Texas
Texas HHSC says Prometric handles scheduling and testing. Your training program typically submits your eligibility; then you schedule through the testing vendor as the bulletin describes.
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
- How many questions are on the Texas CNA written test, and what's the passing score?
- The current Texas bulletin lists 60 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes. The passing standard is explained in the bulletin; check the latest version before your test.
- How do I schedule the Texas CNA exam after finishing class?
- Follow the scheduling steps in the Texas Candidate Information Bulletin and on HHSC's "Become a certified nurse aide" page; your training program usually confirms your eligibility first.
- Is the Texas CNA exam hard?
- It's very passable with preparation. See is the CNA exam hard.
- Can I take the Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas test day — free, no sign-up, about 15 minutes.
Take the free practice testRelated
Other states
Sources
- Texas HHSC — Nurse Aide Registry
- Texas HHSC — Become a certified nurse aide in Texas
- Texas Nurse Aide Candidate Information Bulletin (Prometric)
- 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.