How Hard Is the CNA Exam? (Written & Skills Test, 2025 Guide)

When I first started looking into becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), one of the first questions I asked was: “How hard is the CNA exam?” It’s a fair concern — the CNA exam has two parts: a written test and a skills evaluation. The difficulty depends on how well you prepare, but knowing what to expect makes it much less intimidating.

CNA Exam Overview (2025)

The CNA certification exam is designed to test both your knowledge and practical nursing assistant skills. It usually includes:

  1. Written Exam (or Oral Exam option) – A multiple-choice test covering essential CNA knowledge.
  2. Skills Evaluation – A hands-on test where you demonstrate CNA skills in front of an evaluator.

You must pass both parts to earn your CNA certification.

How Hard Is the CNA Written Exam?

The written test is often considered the easier part, but it can still be challenging if you’re not prepared.

  • Format: Multiple-choice (usually 60–70 questions, depending on your state).
  • Time Limit: About 90 minutes.
  • Passing Score: Typically 70–75% (varies by state).

Topics Covered:

  • Basic nursing care (feeding, bathing, dressing, repositioning).
  • Infection control & hand hygiene.
  • Safety and emergency procedures.
  • Patient rights & communication.
  • Vital signs and documentation.

👉 Many test-takers say the hardest part is the wording of questions, which can be tricky or very detailed.

How Hard Is the CNA Skills Test?

The skills evaluation is usually considered the harder part of the CNA exam because it’s hands-on and performance-based.

  • Format: You’ll be asked to demonstrate 5 random skills (out of 30–35 possible skills, depending on your state).
  • Examples of Skills: Hand washing, taking vital signs, transferring patients, assisting with ambulation, measuring output, providing perineal care.
  • Passing Requirement: You must perform each skill correctly — especially critical steps (such as infection control, patient safety, and communication).

👉 Most candidates fail due to nervousness or forgetting steps, not because they don’t know the material.

Is the CNA Exam Really Hard?

The CNA exam is considered moderate in difficulty:

  • The written portion is manageable with study.
  • The skills test can feel high-pressure but is very passable with practice.

Most candidates pass on the first or second attempt. According to state boards, the CNA exam pass rate is generally above 70–80% nationwide.

Pro Study Tip 📘

The CNA exam is only as hard as your preparation. Practice under test-like conditions so you feel calm on exam day.

👉 Check out our CNA Practice Questions + Study Guide — updated for 2025, covering both the written test and the full list of CNA skills with step-by-step breakdowns.

How to Make the CNA Exam Easier

  1. Use Practice Tests – Get comfortable with the multiple-choice format.
  2. Drill CNA Skills Daily – Practice in front of a mirror or with a partner.
  3. Memorize Critical Steps – Infection control and safety always come first.
  4. Time Yourself – Practice skills within the time limit to simulate exam day.
  5. Stay Calm – Nervousness is the #1 reason people fail the skills portion.

CNA Exam Difficulty

Component Format Difficulty Passing Requirement
Written Exam 60–70 multiple-choice questions Moderate 70–75% (varies by state)
Skills Test 5 random skills High-pressure but doable Must pass all critical steps

✅ Final Thought: The CNA exam is challenging but very passable with the right preparation. The written test requires strong knowledge of patient care basics, while the skills test demands confidence and precision. With practice, you can pass on your first try and start your career as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

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