1.4 Scheduling, Fees, IDs, and Test-Day Rules
Key Takeaways
- Candidates schedule through California TMU after eligibility and payment are in the D&S Headmaster system.
- Effective March 1, 2026, the combined knowledge plus skills cost is $140 when both are taken.
- Candidates must read the confirmation letter because check-in, ID, dress code, and timing rules can create no-show problems.
- The knowledge exam may allow a word-for-word translation dictionary, but not a dictionary with definitions or notes.
- Remote knowledge testing has strict room, device, camera, and no-assistance rules.
Scheduling And Fees
After your training program enters completion and your testing fees are paid, you schedule through California TMU. Some programs prepay fees for students, but you should verify before adding payments yourself.
| Exam Item | 2026 Fee |
|---|---|
| Knowledge exam | $40 |
| Audio knowledge exam | $45 |
| Skills test | $100 |
| Knowledge plus skills | $140 |
The audio knowledge exam must be selected before payment. It is not the same as an ADA accommodation. Candidates needing disability accommodations should follow the D&S Headmaster ADA process early.
Confirmation Letter
Your test confirmation letter is not optional reading. It tells you where to test, when to arrive, what to bring, and how the event is administered.
Common avoidable problems include:
- Arriving late.
- Bringing unacceptable identification.
- Not knowing the TMU username or password.
- Wearing clothing that prevents safe skills performance.
- Forgetting required forms or approval letters.
- Trying to ask content questions after the test begins.
Knowledge Exam Tools
California knowledge testing is computer-based. If needed, basic calculation tools may be provided under test rules. Foreign word-for-word translation dictionaries may be allowed, but definitions, handwritten notes, and electronic translators are not allowed.
Remote Knowledge Testing
Remote knowledge testing is convenient but strict. You must be alone in a quiet room, use required technology, and keep the camera view acceptable. You may not get setup help after check-in.
If the remote proctor stops the exam because rules are not followed, it may count as a failed attempt. Only choose remote testing if your internet, device, room, and confidence are ready.
Skills Test Logistics
The skills test is hands-on. You cannot pause it to ask how to do a skill. You can ask for the scenario to be repeated, and you can correct a step before time runs out.
The best candidates practice calmly, speak respectfully, and finish each task clearly before moving to the next assigned task.
What is the combined California CNA fee for the standard knowledge exam and skills test effective March 1, 2026?
Which item is generally acceptable for the California CNA knowledge exam under D&S Headmaster rules?