Isaac Prentice
May 31, 2026
Before you enroll in a CNA program, the most important thing to understand is what your specific state requires. Training hours, exam formats, clinical evaluation rules, and registry procedures all vary, and knowing your state’s rules in advance saves time and avoids surprises.
CNA exam requirements are set by each state’s nurse aide registry authority. All states require completion of a state-approved training program (minimum 75 hours under federal CMS guidelines) and passage of a two-part competency exam: a written knowledge test and a hands-on clinical skills evaluation. Upon passing, candidates are listed on their state’s nurse aide registry. For a full overview of how the training and exam process works, see our online CNA prep course guide.
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA), administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, sets minimum federal standards for CNA training in facilities that receive Medicare or Medicaid funding:
States may exceed these minimums, and many do. Always verify your state’s current requirements directly with your state health department.
| State | Min. training hours | Clinical hours | Testing authority |
| California | 150 hours | 50 hours | Pearson VUE |
| New York | 100 hours | 30 hours | Prometric |
| Texas | 100 hours | 24 hours | Prometric |
| Florida | 120 hours | 40 hours | Prometric |
| Illinois | 75 hours | 16 hours | Prometric |
| Pennsylvania | 80 hours | 37.5 hours | Prometric |
| Ohio | 75 hours | 16 hours | Prometric |
| Georgia | 85 hours | 24 hours | Prometric |
| Michigan | 75 hours | 16 hours | Prometric |
| North Carolina | 75 hours | 16 hours | Prometric |
| Washington | 85 hours | 50 hours | Prometric |
| Massachusetts | 100 hours | 16 hours | Prometric |
| Virginia | 75 hours | 16 hours | Prometric |
| Arizona | 120 hours | 40 hours | Prometric |
| Colorado | 75 hours | 16 hours | Prometric |
Wondering how these hour requirements affect your study timeline? Read our full breakdown: how long does CNA training take?
The written knowledge exam covers these core content areas across all states, as defined by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN):
The clinical skills evaluation tests five of the approximately 25 to 30 standardized skills on your state’s approved list. Skills are selected randomly at the time of testing. For a deeper look at the skills and knowledge areas you need to master, see our guide on top skills for patient care workers.
Most states allow candidates to retake the exam up to three times within a set period, often 24 months from the completion of training. If all attempts are exhausted or the eligibility window closes, the candidate must complete a new training program before retesting. You can verify your state’s specific policy directly through Prometric’s CNA testing portal.
| State | Max retake attempts | Retake window |
| California | 3 attempts | 2 years from training |
| Texas | 3 attempts | 2 years from training |
| Florida | 3 attempts | 2 years from training |
| New York | 3 attempts | Check with state |
| Illinois | 3 attempts | Check with state |
For additional guidance on the enrollment and certification process, visit the NCOOA frequently asked questions page.
NCOOA’s online CNA prep course is built around the knowledge domains tested on state competency exams nationwide. The curriculum covers every major content area — from infection control and patient rights to safety procedures and clinical documentation — so you walk into exam day fully prepared.
The course is self-paced and fully online, which means you can study around your schedule regardless of which state you are in. Once you complete the coursework, you arrange the in-person clinical skills evaluation through your state’s testing provider.
Not sure whether CNA is the right credential for your goals? Our comparison guide CNA vs HHA vs PCA — what’s the difference? breaks down the training requirements, earning potential, and career paths for each role side by side. You can also browse all NCOOA caregiver certification programs to explore your full range of options.
Yes, significantly. Training hours range from 75 in some states to 150 in California. Clinical hour requirements, exam formats, and registry renewal rules all vary. Always verify your specific state’s requirements with your state health department before enrolling.
Many states have reciprocity agreements that allow CNAs certified in one state to transfer their certification to another. The process involves applying to the new state’s registry and may require additional documentation or verification. Check with your destination state’s nurse aide registry for specifics.
Most states require a passing score of 70 to 75 percent on the written exam. The clinical skills evaluation typically requires passing each skill demonstrated without critical errors.
From enrollment to registry listing, most students complete the process in 4 to 12 weeks. See our full guide: how long does CNA training take?
Your name is added to your state’s nurse aide registry within 3 to 7 business days of passing. Employers can verify your credentials through NCOOA’s certification verification page. You are then eligible to apply for CNA positions immediately.
NCOOA’s online CNA prep course is structured around the knowledge domains tested on state competency exams, helping you study efficiently and walk into exam day prepared.
