How to become a CNA in Texas

Texas CNA candidates test with Prometric. Written: 60 Q / 90 min; Skills: 5 scored.

Updated 2026-09-23 · 3 sources · By the HealthCert Prep team

Texas CNA exam at a glance

Vendor
Prometric
Written
60 Q / 90 min
Skills
5 scored
Fees
$31 + $89

Exam format, fees and rules

Verified against Prometric - Texas Nurse Aide Candidate Information Bulletin (checked 2026-09-23). Fees change - confirm with the vendor before paying.
ItemDetail
Testing vendorPrometric
Written test60 multiple-choice questions, 90 minutes
Oral optionYes - includes a reading comprehension exam
Skills test5 skills scored: 3 assigned + handwashing + indirect care
Fees$31 written; $41 oral; $89 clinical skills (same for new, lapsed and retesters)
Reschedule fee$25 if you reschedule 5-29 days before the test; under 5 days forfeits the fee
Testing windowPass both tests within 24 months of completing training
Attempts3 attempts at each test within 24 months, then retrain
Remote testingWritten/oral tests can be taken by live remote proctoring; skills must be in person

What makes Texas different

  • Texas prices each test separately, so a first-timer taking written + skills pays $120 total ($130 with the oral option).
  • The written test can be taken at home through live remote proctoring.
  • Applications run through HHSC’s TULIP system, not directly through Prometric.

How to get certified in Texas

  1. Complete a Texas-approved training course

    Your NATCEP program director approves your training in HHSC TULIP.

  2. Apply in TULIP

    Submit the New Nurse Aide by Examination application in TULIP (txhhs.my.site.com/TULIP).

  3. Pay Prometric and schedule

    Pay by credit card or voucher, then book at a test center, regional or in-facility site, or remotely (written only).

  4. Get listed

    After passing both tests you are placed on the Texas Nurse Aide Registry.

Test day checklist

  • Bring everything listed on your testing appointment email - missing documents means no test.
  • Bring a current government-issued photo ID with signature.
  • Wear flat, nonskid, closed-toed shoes for the skills test; bring a watch with a second hand.

Registry and contacts

Texas Nurse Aide Registry (HHSC): 512-438-2050.

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)

A resident's eyeglasses should be cleaned with:

Practice for the Texas CNA written exam

All-access is $29/month (cancel anytime) or $59 for 90 days with no auto-renew. Full original question banks, timed practice exams and score reports by domain.

Get all-access - $29/mo

HealthCert Prep is not affiliated with or endorsed by Prometric, NCSBN or any state agency. Prometric, NCSBN or any state agency is a trademark of its owner. All practice questions on this site are original.

Frequently asked questions

How do I become a CNA in Texas?

1) Complete a Texas-approved training course. 2) Apply in TULIP. 3) Pay Prometric and schedule. 4) Get listed.

Who runs the Texas CNA exam?

Prometric administers testing; Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) - Texas Nurse Aide Registry oversees certification and the registry.

How much does the Texas CNA exam cost?

$31 written; $41 oral; $89 clinical skills (same for new, lapsed and retesters) (verified 2026-09-23 from the official handbook or fee page).

How many questions are on the Texas CNA test?

60 multiple-choice questions, 90 minutes.

How many times can I take the Texas CNA exam?

3 attempts at each test within 24 months, then retrain.

Sources

  1. Prometric - Texas Nurse Aide Candidate Information Bulletin (accessed 2026-09-23)
  2. Texas HHS - Become a Certified Nurse Aide in Texas (accessed 2026-09-23)
  3. eCFR - 42 CFR 483.152 Requirements for approval of a nurse aide training and competency evaluation program (accessed 2026-09-23)