Is it possible? Can you miss a few questions and still pass the CNA exam?
YES, it is.
The exact number depends on your state’s passing score, but for most test-takers, it works out to about 12–18 missed questions on a 60-question test.
That’s because the exam is scored on a percentage, not perfection.
So, if you want to see how that number is calculated and exactly what it looks like in your state? Keep reading for the full breakdown.
CNA Written Exam Overview
What is the CNA Written Exam?
The CNA written exam is a standardized knowledge test every nursing assistant candidate has to pass.
It’s a crucial component of the CNA certification process and typically consists of multiple-choice questions. The exam aims to assess your understanding of fundamental nursing concepts like patient care, safety, infection control, communication, and resident rights.
Along with the hands-on skills test, it’s one of the two exams required for CNA certification.
Exam Structure
While the CNA written exam is similar across the country, the exact setup can vary slightly depending on your state or testing provider.
Here’s the general format most candidates can expect:
|
Part of the Structure |
What to Expect |
|
Number of questions |
Usually 60–70 (some states up to 100) |
|
Question type |
Multiple-choice, one correct answer per item |
|
Time limit |
Around 90 minutes total |
|
Format |
Mostly computer-based; some states allow paper tests |
|
Content coverage |
Mix of basic nursing care, safety, infection control, communication, and resident rights |
|
Scoring |
Based on a percentage of correct answers, a passing score is set by the state |
So, if you’re wondering “how hard is the CNA exam?” the answer is that it’s very passable if you prepare and understand the format.
Passing Score
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), you must achieve the minimum score to pass the written exam. The passing score varies by state, since each state’s nursing board sets its own requirements.
In most cases, you need at least 70% or higher to pass.
Maximum Questions Missed on the CNA Written Exam, Calculated
|
Note: This calculation explains “what score do you need to pass the CNA exam” in plain numbers. |
The number of questions you can miss depends on two things:
- Total questions on your exam
- The passing percentage your state requires
We’ll keep this simple.
Below is an example to show the math. To get the real value, replace your state’s passing score and total questions to get your exact number.
Step 1: Convert the passing score to a decimal
If your state requires 75% then divide it by 100 (the total no. of. questions given)
75% divided by 100 → 0.75.
Step 2: Find how many you must get right
Now, multiply the total questions by the decimal.
100 × 0.75 = 75.
Which means you need to answer 75 questions correctly to pass the exam.
Step 3: Find how many you can miss
Then subtract the required correct answers from the total questions.
100 − 75 = 25
This means you can miss 25 questions and still pass the exam.
Want to test yourself right now?
State-by-State CNA Exam Passing Score Chart
|
State |
Written Exam Passing Score |
Total No. Of. Questions |
Official Scoring Link |
|
California |
70% minimum on both written and skills tests |
||
|
Georgia |
N/A |
||
|
Indiana |
80% (80 of 100 questions correct) |
||
|
Kansas |
75% or higher (100 multiple-choice) |
||
|
Massachusetts |
76% (knowledge test) |
||
|
Missouri |
80% (knowledge test) |
||
|
Ohio |
70% (knowledge test) |
||
|
Utah |
75% (57 out of 75) |
Tips to Ace the CNA Written Exam
Now that you know how the scoring works, here’s how to prep smarter and stay steady during the exam.
Study Diligently
The key to success on the CNA written exam is thorough preparation. Start by reviewing your class notes, textbooks, and any study guides recommended by your training program.
Consider joining a study group or using online resources to enhance your understanding of essential concepts.
Practice With Timing
Don’t just take practice tests; take them with the same time limit as the real exam. By answering sample questions in the same style and giving yourself the full 90 minutes, you’ll train yourself to manage the clock on exam day.
Focus on High-Yield Topics
Not every section carries the same weight. Pay extra attention to infection control, patient rights, communication, and safety procedures; these areas come up often on the test.
Manage Test Anxiety
Feeling nervous before an exam is normal, but it’s essential to manage your anxiety effectively. So, sleep well the night before, eat a balanced meal, and use a simple breathing technique if you start to feel tense.
On test day, plan to arrive early so you have plenty of time and don’t feel rushed.
Read Carefully
When taking the exam, watch for wording like “first action” or “most important step.” These can change the meaning of the question.
Read each question carefully, be sure you understand what it’s asking, take time, and then choose the answer that fits best.
Eliminate Wrong Choices
If you’re unsure about an answer, try to eliminate obviously incorrect choices. This increases your chances of selecting the correct option even if you’re uncertain about the answer.
Stay Calm During the Exam
Maintaining composure during the exam is crucial. Don’t let a difficult question throw you off balance. Move on to the next question and return to challenging ones later if needed.
Ready to take action?
Ready for Your CNA Exam?
The CNA written exam is a significant step towards becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant. While it may seem intimidating, with diligent study, practice, and effective test-taking strategies, you can succeed.
Remember that the number of questions you can miss and still pass depends on your state’s passing score, so be sure to check the specific requirements for your location.
With determination and preparation, you’ll be well on your way to a rewarding career in healthcare.
Looking for complete prep, not just practice? Explore our full CNA prep program to study smarter.
FAQs on the CNA Written Exam
The passing score for the CNA written exam varies by state but is typically set at 70% or higher.
The number of questions on the CNA written exam can range from 60 to 100, depending on your state.
Yes, you can miss some questions and still pass the CNA written exam. The number of allowable misses depends on your state’s passing score.
The CNA written exam covers a wide range of topics related to patient care, safety, infection control, and ethical considerations.
To prepare for the CNA written exam, study diligently, practice with sample questions, manage test anxiety, and read questions carefully during the exam.
No. CNA exam scores do not transfer between states. If you move, you usually need to apply for reciprocity with the new state’s nursing board. Some states may require you to retake the exam.
Most states allow you to retake the CNA exam up to three times within a set period (often two years after finishing training). The exact number of attempts depends on state rules.
If you fail the CNA exam three times, most states require you to complete CNA training again before reapplying for the exam. Rules can vary, so always check with your state’s registry.
