CNA Scoring Guide
How scores are calculated, what they mean, and how to reach your goal score.
Scoring Overview
Written test: 70% to pass. Clinical skills test: must demonstrate 5 skills correctly (including hand hygiene in every skill). Both must be passed. Results available immediately for written; skills results at the test.
Score Scale
| Section | Duration | Max Score |
|---|---|---|
| CNA Knowledge Test | 90 min | 100 |
Section Breakdown
patient care
Patient Care — the largest section of the written exam.
Personal care and hygieneActivities of daily living (ADLs)Range of motionPositioning and turningVital signsCatheter careBowel and bladderNutrition and hydration
safety
Safety and Infection Control.
Standard precautionsHandwashing techniquePPE (gloves, gowns, masks)Fall preventionFire safety (RACE/PASS)Restraint alternatives
communication
Communication and Interpersonal Skills.
Therapeutic communicationReporting observationsMedical terminologyResidents' rightsAbuse/neglect reporting
Key Facts
- Tests
- Written + Clinical Skills (2 parts)
- Written questions
- 70 scored + 10 unscored
- Passing score
- 70% written + pass skills
- Training
- 75–120 clock hours
- Cost
- $60–$150 (exam only)
- Renewal
- Every 2 years (24 hours activity)
Study Tips
- 1.Hand hygiene and infection control questions appear in nearly every CNA exam — know all steps perfectly.
- 2.Residents' rights are heavily tested: privacy, dignity, right to refuse, right to be informed.
- 3.Use the state's specific skill checklist — the clinical exam uses exact procedural steps.
- 4.Practice your 5 clinical skills until each one is smooth and automatic.
- 5.CNA Prep Plus by Kaplan and NursingAssistantCentral.com are well-aligned resources.
- 6.Body mechanics (protect your back when lifting) is tested both in written and clinical portions.