Mastering the CNA exam structure is your first step to passing with confidence. Feeling anxious about test day is completely normal. You’re likely wondering, “How many questions on the CNA exam will I actually face?” This isn’t just about a number; it’s about understanding the entire blueprint so you can walk in prepared and focused. In this guide, we’ll break down every critical detail—from the question count on the written portion to the skills you’ll perform—so you know exactly what to expect.
The Quick Answer: How Many Questions?
Let’s get right to it. The standard CNA written exam typically contains 60-70 multiple-choice questions.
Key Takeaway: While the exact number can vary slightly by state provider, plan for around 60-70 questions. This number forms the foundation of your study strategy.
Now, let’s dive into what those questions look like and how the exam is structured.
Breaking Down the Written (or Oral) Exam
The written portion of the CNA exam is designed to test your knowledge of core nursing assistant principles. Understanding its format is just as important as knowing the content.
Question Format and Content
You’ll face multiple-choice questions, each with four possible answers (A, B, C, D). Only one is correct. These questions cover a wide range of topics you learned in your CNA training program.
- Basic nursing skills
- Activities of daily living (ADLs)
- Client rights and independence
- Safety and emergency procedures
- Mental health and social service needs
- Communication skills
Pro Tip: When answering questions, look for keywords like “first,” “best,” or “most important.” These words point to the priority action and help eliminate less-correct options.
Time Limits and Oral Options
You’ll typically have up to two hours to complete the written exam. That’s plenty of time to carefully read each question and review your answers, so don’t rush.
Can’t take a traditional written exam? An oral version is available. In this format, a proctor reads the questions aloud, and you answer by selecting from a list. This is an excellent option if you have reading difficulties or prefer an auditory learning style. You’ll need to request this accommodation when you register.
Decoding the Passing Score
Knowing how many questions are on the CNA exam is one thing; knowing how many you can get wrong is another. This is where many students feel the most stress.
What Score Do You Need to Pass?
The general benchmark for passing the CNA written exam is approximately 75%.
Clinical Pearl: This 75% isn’t always a strict percentage cut-off. Many exams use a scaled scoring system based on question difficulty. However, aiming for 75% correct is a reliable and safe goal for your preparation.
So, how many questions can you miss on the CNA exam? If you face a 60-question test, answering 45 correctly typically earns you a passing grade. For a 70-question test, you’ll need to get about 52-53 right.
Always double-check your specific state’s requirements! Some states might have a slightly higher or lower threshold. This information is usually available on your state’s Board of Nursing or CNA registry website.
Common Mistake: Assuming the passing score is universal. Never rely solely on what a classmate tells you. Look up your state’s specific requirements to be 100% certain.
The Other Half: Understanding the Clinical Skills Exam
Passing the written exam is only half the battle. The CNA clinical skills test is where you prove you can apply your knowledge safely and effectively. This is often the more nerve-wracking part for students.
The Skills Test Format
You will be asked to perform five randomly selected nursing skills. Not skills, but five specific tasks. One of these will almost always be Handwashing, which is a non-negotiable first step.
You’ll have a total of 30-35 minutes to complete all five skills. An evaluator will watch your every move with a detailed checklist. They aren’t looking for perfection in style—they’re looking for safety, competence, and adherence to procedure.
Imagine this: You’re asked to “provide partial bed bath to the resident’s face, arm, and hand.” You need to gather your supplies, explain the procedure, maintain privacy, perform the skill safely, and then clean up—all while thinking aloud.
Pro Tip: Verbalize everything. Saying, “Now I’m checking the water temperature to make sure it’s safe, about 105 degrees,” shows the evaluator you know the why behind your actions.
The Crucial Role of “Critical Steps”
Every skill has a list of “critical steps.” These are the most important, safety-focused actions. Forgetting one of these means an automatic failure for that entire skill, even if you did everything else perfectly.
Examples of critical steps include:
- Knocking on the resident’s door before entering
- Raising the bed to a comfortable working height
- Calling the resident by their preferred name
- Lowering the bed and raising the side rail when you’re finished
- Never forgetting to wash your hands at the beginning and end
Here’s a quick comparison to help you visualize the two parts of the exam:
| Feature | Written Exam | Clinical Skills Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Multiple-choice questions | Hands-on performance of skills |
| Question/Task Count | 60-70 questions | 5 skills (handwashing usually required) |
| Time Limit | ~2 hours | 30-35 minutes |
| Passing Criteria | ~75% correct answers | All skills passed; no failed critical steps |
| Winner/Best For | Testing theoretical knowledge | Demonstrating practical, safe caregiving |
Final Preparations: Your CNA Test Game Plan
You’ve got the numbers, you understand the format. Now let’s get you ready for test day.
Test Day Checklist
Being prepared reduces anxiety. Use this checklist to ensure you have everything you need.
- [ ] Two Forms of ID (one must be photo ID, and one must have your signature)
- [ ] Exam Confirmation Letter or Email
- [ ] A Watch with a Second Hand (digital watches with alerts are often prohibited)
- [ ] Comfortable, Non-Slip Footwear and a uniform (follow your testing center’s dress code)
- [ ] Packed Lunch/Water (if allowed, for a break between the written and skills portions)
- [ ] A good night’s sleep and a light breakfast!
You’ve put in the hard work. Trust your training, stay calm, and remember to breathe. Each question you answer and each skill you perform is a step closer to achieving your goal.
FAQs About the CNA Exam
What happens if I fail one part of the exam? Usually, you only need to retake the part you failed. You typically have two more chances to pass without redoing your entire CNA training program.
Is the skills test really timed? Yes. The 30-35 minute window includes the time it takes to get your supplies and set up your station. Practice your skills with a timer to build confidence and speed.
Can I talk to my “resident” during the skills test? Absolutely! You should. Explain every step you’re taking, ask for consent, and check for comfort. It shows you respect resident dignity and are a thoughtful caregiver.
Understanding exactly how many questions are on the CNA exam, how the skills test works, and what you need to pass removes the mystery. You now have a clear blueprint. Focus on your knowledge, practice those skills until they are second nature, and walk into that testing room with the confidence of someone who is ready to succeed.
Have you used any unique study methods for the CNA exam? Share your experience in the comments below—your insights could help a fellow CNA!
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