What Happens If I Fail the TNCC Exam? (2025 Rules & Retake Guide)

When I first signed up for the Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC), one of my biggest fears was: “What happens if I fail the TNCC exam?” The good news is you’re not alone in wondering — and failing the exam isn’t the end of the road. Here’s what you need to know in 2025 about retakes, policies, and how to bounce back stronger.

First, Remember: The TNCC Exam Has Two Parts

The TNCC certification exam, developed by the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA), includes:

  1. Written Exam: 50 multiple-choice questions, requiring 80% to pass.
  2. Skills Station (Trauma Nursing Process): A live, hands-on assessment that is scored pass/fail.

You must pass both sections to receive your TNCC provider card.

What If You Fail the TNCC Written Exam?

  • Failing Score: If you score below 80% (less than 40 out of 50 correct), you do not pass.
  • Retake Option: Most ENA-affiliated sites allow you to retake the written exam once within the course timeframe.
  • If You Fail Again: You’ll need to re-enroll in a future TNCC course to try again.

What If You Fail the TNCC Skills Station?

The skills test is where many nurses feel the most pressure.

  • First Attempt: If you miss a critical step in the ABCDE assessment, you’ll fail that station.
  • Retake Policy: Many facilities allow a second attempt on the same day.
  • If You Fail Again: You’ll need to retake the entire TNCC course to earn certification.

Will Failing TNCC Affect Your Nursing License?

No. Failing the TNCC exam does not impact your RN license or job eligibility. It simply means you won’t be TNCC certified until you pass. Employers may require certification for trauma-related roles, but failing is only a temporary setback.

Pro Study Tip 📘

If you don’t pass on your first attempt, treat it as a practice run. Most failures come from nerves, not knowledge.

👉 Check out our TNCC Practice Questions + Study Guide — updated for 2025 to simulate real exam scenarios and reduce test anxiety. With extra practice, your retake will feel much easier.

How to Avoid Failing the TNCC Exam

  1. Study Early – Start reviewing the Provider Manual 2–3 weeks before your course.
  2. Practice the Trauma Nursing Process – Drill the ABCDE sequence until automatic.
  3. Simulate Exam Conditions – Use timed practice questions.
  4. Role-Play Skills Station – Practice verbalizing your trauma assessment with peers.
  5. Stay Calm Under Pressure – Remember, confidence is half the battle.

What Happens If You Fail TNCC

Exam Component Fail Outcome Retake Policy
Written Exam Below 80% Usually 1 same-day retake; full course if failed twice
Skills Station Missed critical steps 1 same-day retake; full course if failed twice

✅ Final Thought: If you fail the TNCC exam, don’t panic. Most nurses are given another chance the same day, and even if you need to retake the full course, you’ll walk in better prepared. With focused studying and practice, you’ll pass and earn your TNCC certification.

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