Can a nursing student take the CNA exam without CNA training?

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Hello. I am a nursing student in California and wanted a part time job as a CNA. I heard I could take the CNA test after a certain amount of time as a nursing student because I have sufficient training.

Has any of you done this? Please give me some more information about it if you know the process.

I have tried looking at CNA exams online but am not sure if they are legitimate or the right one. Any help would be great.

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I've heard that in some states if you finish level 1 of a nursing program you may take the CNA test.

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Specializes in Infusion.
http://www.asisvcs.com/publications/pdf/070500.pdf Take a look at the eligibility requirements on pg 3. There is other useful information about the testing procedures as well. In Oregon, we have both a written exam and clinical skills evaluation. Our CNA class was very "hands on" in terms of skills training. Without a class that is very specific to CNA skills, I think it would be difficult to pass this portion of the test. It's a different thought process as well.
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Specializes in MICU.

In Florida, the Board of Nursing doesn't require any training at all to take the CNA exam. You can just challenge the test, which has both a written and practical portion - so if you don't know what you're doing, you're not going to pass.

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Ask at your school...or look in your student handbook. I know it states in mine that one can take the test for CNA after first 2 terms (eight week term and 16 week term)

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Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.

Check with your state's BON as they're ultimately the ones who issue the certification.

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Thanks for the advice. now I at least have somewhere to start with.

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We can take our CNA testing after our first semester of NS.

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