To write the exam
You must write the exam to become certified for the first time (also known as initial certification).
You can rewrite the exam to renew your specialty certification, but most renew by continuous learning.
2020
Fall Exams
- Apply from June 1 – September 10
- Exam writing window: October 15 – November 15. This is a longer administration period to help accommodate writers who had been scheduled for the May exam window, which CNA postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Receive your results in December
Renewal by continuous learning
- Apply anytime from January 20 – November 1, 2020
2021
Spring Exams
- Apply from January 14 – March 8
- Exam writing window: May 1 – 15
- Receive your results in June
Fall Exams
- Apply from June 1 – September 1
- Exam writing window: November 1 – 15.
- Receive your results in December
Renewal by continuous learning
- Apply anytime from January 14 – November 1, 2021