Louisiana CNA exam at a glance
Exam format, fees and rules
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Testing vendor | Prometric |
| Written test | 60 multiple-choice questions, 90 minutes |
| Oral option | Yes - oral test adds a reading comprehension section (about 15 questions) |
| Skills test | 5 skills scored: 3 assigned + handwashing + indirect care; must pass all 5 |
| Fee (new tester) | $125 written or oral + skills |
| Retest fees | $40 written/oral only; $85 skills only |
| Testing window | Pass both tests within 12 months of finishing training |
| Attempts | 3 attempts at each test before retraining |
What makes Louisiana different
- Louisiana requires testing to be completed within 12 months of training - shorter than the 24 months many states allow.
- Test content is written not to exceed a sixth-grade reading level, per the Louisiana Competency Evaluation Program.
- Lapsed aides (under 24 months) get only one attempt at the skills test under Route 2.
- Reciprocity applicants pay a $35 processing fee.
How to get certified in Louisiana
- Finish a Louisiana-approved training course
Route 1 candidates must complete a Louisiana-approved nurse aide course within the last 12 months.
- Apply to Prometric
Complete the Louisiana Nurse Aide application (online at prometric.com/nurseaide/la or in the bulletin) and pay the fee by cashier’s check, money order or credit card.
- Schedule both tests
First-time testers are scheduled for the Clinical Skills Test and the Knowledge Test on the same day.
- Test and get listed
After you pass both, Prometric sends your results to LDH for final review and placement on the Louisiana Registry.
Test day checklist
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early for sign-in and ID checks.
- Bring your original Authorization to Test (ATT) letter from Prometric.
- Bring a current government-issued photo ID with signature plus a second signed ID (school ID, facility ID, credit card or library card).
- The name on your application must exactly match your government ID or you forfeit the fee.
Registry and contacts
LA Nurse Aide Registry: 225-342-0138, LA.CNA@la.gov (per the bulletin).
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 Louisiana CNA written exam
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Frequently asked questions
How do I become a CNA in Louisiana?
1) Finish a Louisiana-approved training course. 2) Apply to Prometric. 3) Schedule both tests. 4) Test and get listed.
Who runs the Louisiana CNA exam?
Prometric administers testing; Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), Health Standards Section - LA Nurse Aide Registry oversees certification and the registry.
How much does the Louisiana CNA exam cost?
$125 written or oral + skills (verified 2026-09-23 from the official handbook or fee page).
How many questions are on the Louisiana CNA test?
60 multiple-choice questions, 90 minutes.
How many times can I take the Louisiana CNA exam?
3 attempts at each test before retraining.