CNA Training in Tennessee

The Tennessee Department of Health uses D&S Diversified Technologies to administer the state’s CNA competency examinations. The test consists of two parts, which are the written or oral test and the skills test. Some testing sites use WebETest, which is a computerized version of the written test. The written section tests CNA theory and has 75 multiple-choice questions that must be answered in 90 minutes or less. To pass, students must score at least a 75 percent. The test may be taken in English or Spanish or may be taken orally with the use of a tape. The oral version includes ten additional questions in English that must be answered without using the tape.

The skills test is performed in front of a registered nurse evaluator. All students will be required to perform four randomly assigned CNA skills in front of the evaluator as well as demonstrate hand washing. Students will have 35 minutes to perform all of the skills. All five tasks must be performed correctly to pass this portion of the test.

Both sections of the examination must be passed within two years from the end of training to avoid having to retake a training program. Candidates who take a computer-based test will find out their scores the next day. Those taking a traditional written test will find out their scores via mail. The cost to take either the written or oral examination is $30, and the cost for the skills examination is $60.

Out-of-state CNAs may be able to transfer their certifications to Tennessee should they move here. CNAs must have active licenses in good standing with their former states. However, CNAs from Florida and North Carolina will be required to retrain and retest in Tennessee. In addition, CNAs from Georgia, Alabama and Illinois will need to retake the competency examination. CNAs from all other states can fill out the Out-of-State Nurse Aide Registration Application and send it to their previous states for verification. CNAs from California, Colorado, Missouri or Illinois will send the form to the Tennessee Registry instead. They will also need to include a copy of a photo ID, social security card, and previous CNA certification. Reciprocity is free.

Tennessee CNAs must renew their certifications every two years, but they must not renew more than one month prior to the expiration date listed on their certifications. Renewal reminders will be mailed out by the Department of Health prior to this date. In order to renew, CNAs must be in good standing with the state with no accusations of patient abuse or neglect against their names. In addition, they must have worked at least an eight-hour shift in the past 24 months. They will need to send in a pay stub, payroll printout or notarized attestation form with their renewal paperwork. Only work done in a licensed health care facility counts toward renewal. Renewal is free.

Testing Application Form
Reciprocity Application
Renewal Form

Links
Tennessee Department of Health
Tennessee Board of Nursing
Nurse Aide Registry
Search CNA licenses

Contacts
Phone: (615) 532-5171