CNA Schools in Missouri

All Missouri CNA training courses end with a two-part competency examination, which is actually considered to be part of the training course. This examination must be completed within six months of completing training. In addition, those who fail a section must retake and pass that section within 90 days from the day when they first attempted the examination. Those who fail both sections of the examination must retrain. These tests are often offered at the training facilities. Those attending a facility that does not offer the examination can apply to take it at a different vocational school in the state.

As other states do, Missouri requires a two-part test. This test consists of a written section that tests CNA theory and a skills section, often called a practicum, that tests hands-on CNA skills. The cost for both sections is $115.

The written knowledge test has 75 multiple-choice questions that must be answered at least 80 percent correctly. Students must pass this section to be able to take the skills section of the examination. Students will be asked to perform nine CNA skills in front a nurse aide evaluator. The skills must be passed at 100 percent in order for the student to pass the examination. After students pass both parts of the test, the training/testing facility will send the results to the state’s Department of Health and Senior Services and the CNA certifying agency, which will then issue a certificate within 45 days.

Missouri practices reciprocity with CNAs from other states who are moving to Missouri. To be eligible for reciprocity, CNAs must be active in their prior state and must be in good standing with no accusations of patient abuse, neglect or maltreatment. Applicants will need to fill out an application, send a copy of their previous state’s certifications and a copy of their social security cards. They will also need to send in work verification showing that they have worked at least eight hours every two years since they have been certified. Those who are approved for reciprocity will be allowed to challenge the state’s competency examination without training. The fee that applies is the $115 for taking the competency examination.

Missouri CNAs must renew their certifications every 24 months to remain active on the registry. In order to renew, CNAs must have worked for pay performing nursing-related tasks at least eight hours in the past 24 months. Their employers will be required to fill out part of the renewal form for employment verification. In addition, CNAs who work in long-term facilities need to complete 12 hours of in-service continuing education. Renewal is free. CNAs who have not worked the required hours will be considered inactive and will have to retake the competency examination to become active. CNAs who have not worked in the past five years have expired licenses and will be required to retrain and retest.

Links
Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services
Missouri State Board of Nursing
Missouri State Nurse Aide Registry
Verify your CNA License

Contacts
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
P.O. Box 570
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570

Phone: 573-526-5686
Fax: 573-526-7656
Email: [email protected]