Minnesota CNA exam at a glance
Exam format, fees and rules
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Testing vendor | D&SDT-Headmaster (TMU platform) |
| Knowledge exam | 70 multiple-choice questions, 2 hours |
| Knowledge exam languages | English, Spanish, Somali, Hmong |
| Skills test | 3 or 4 randomly selected tasks in 30 minutes |
| Fees | Set by the test site - the handbook directs you to contact the site where you schedule |
| Attempts | 4 knowledge attempts and 3 skills attempts |
| Testing window | Schedule within 24 months of training completion |
What makes Minnesota different
- Minnesota gives four tries at the knowledge exam but three at skills.
- The knowledge exam is offered in Somali and Hmong as well as Spanish - the skills test is not translated.
- There is no single statewide fee: each test site sets and collects it.
How to get certified in Minnesota
- Complete an MDH-approved training program
Your program enters your registration in Headmaster’s TMU system.
- Sign in to TMU
Complete your demographic information before test day.
- Contact your test site about fees
Minnesota testing fees are paid through the test site, not a statewide price.
- Pass both parts
Results go to MDH for placement on the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry.
Test day checklist
- Keep your ID with you through the exam day.
- You have 30 minutes for all skill tasks; you are alerted when 15 minutes remain.
Registry and contacts
Official registry / agency page: www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/providers/nursingassistant/index.html.
Federal minimums that apply everywhere
Federal rules set the floor for every state: nurse aide training must be at least 75 clock hours, including at least 16 hours of supervised practical training (42 CFR 483.152). States can require more. After you are certified, going 24 consecutive months without paid nursing-related work means retraining or retesting before you can work in a Medicare/Medicaid nursing home (42 CFR 483.35(d)).
CNA practice test (written exam)
CNA practice test (written exam)
Practice for the Minnesota CNA written exam
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Frequently asked questions
How do I become a CNA in Minnesota?
1) Complete an MDH-approved training program. 2) Sign in to TMU. 3) Contact your test site about fees. 4) Pass both parts.
Who runs the Minnesota CNA exam?
D&S Diversified Technologies (Headmaster) administers testing; Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) - Nurse Aide Registry oversees certification and the registry.
How much does the Minnesota CNA exam cost?
Set by the test site - the handbook directs you to contact the site where you schedule (verified 2026-09-23 from the official handbook or fee page).
How many questions are on the Minnesota CNA test?
70 multiple-choice questions, 2 hours.
How many times can I take the Minnesota CNA exam?
4 knowledge attempts and 3 skills attempts.
Sources
- D&SDT-Headmaster - Minnesota Nurse Aide Candidate Handbook (v8.0, June 11, 2026) (accessed 2026-09-23)
- MDH - Nurse Aide Registry Testing Information (accessed 2026-09-23)
- eCFR - 42 CFR 483.152 Requirements for approval of a nurse aide training and competency evaluation program (accessed 2026-09-23)