1.3 Registration, Testing Sites, and Exam Day
Key Takeaways
- Register through SIUC after your BNATP coordinator submits your completion paperwork
- The exam fee is $85 covering both written and clinical skills portions
- Approximately 50 testing sites across Illinois, primarily at community colleges
- Bring a valid government-issued photo ID and registration confirmation on exam day
- If you fail one portion, you only retake that portion — up to 3 total attempts in 12 months
- Results are typically available within 2-3 business days; registry placement takes about 2 weeks
Registration, Testing Sites, and Exam Day
Successfully navigating the INACE registration and testing process is the first step toward your Illinois CNA certification. Understanding the logistics will help reduce stress and ensure a smooth exam experience.
How to Register for the INACE
The registration process involves several steps:
- Complete your BNATP — Your program coordinator will submit your completion paperwork to SIUC
- Receive eligibility notification — SIUC will notify you that you are eligible to test
- Choose a testing site — Select from approximately 50 testing locations across Illinois
- Select a test date — Testing dates are published in advance; most sites test at least once per month
- Pay the exam fee — $85 covers both the written and clinical skills portions
- Confirm your registration — Receive confirmation with your assigned testing date, time, and location
Payment Options
| Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Check or Money Order | Payable to SIUC |
| Credit/Debit Card | Accepted for online or phone registration |
| Employer Payment | Some facilities pay on behalf of employees |
| Financial Assistance | Contact workforce development agencies |
Testing Site Locations
Illinois has approximately 50 INACE testing sites throughout the state, primarily located at community colleges. Major testing regions include:
| Region | Example Testing Sites |
|---|---|
| Chicago Metro | City Colleges of Chicago, UIC Testing Services, College of DuPage, Harper College |
| Northern Illinois | Kishwaukee College, Rock Valley College, Waubonsee Community College |
| Central Illinois | Heartland Community College, Lincoln Land, Parkland College |
| Southern Illinois | John A. Logan College, Rend Lake College, SIUC campus |
| Western Illinois | Carl Sandburg College, Spoon River College |
| Eastern Illinois | Lake Land College, Danville Area Community College |
What to Bring on Exam Day
You MUST bring the following items:
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Photo ID | Valid government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, passport) |
| Registration Confirmation | Printed or electronic confirmation |
| #2 Pencils | For paper-based testing (if applicable) |
| Watch | Non-smart watch for timing (not all sites have visible clocks) |
Items NOT allowed in the testing area:
- Cell phones or electronic devices
- Study materials, notes, or textbooks
- Food or drinks (water may be permitted)
- Bags, purses, or backpacks (stored in designated area)
- Smart watches or fitness trackers
Exam Day Schedule (Typical)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Check-in | Arrive 30 minutes early, present ID, sign in |
| Orientation | Brief instructions from test proctor |
| Written Exam | 85 questions, 90 minutes |
| Break | Short break between sections |
| Clinical Skills | 5 skills demonstration with evaluator |
| Dismissal | Turn in all materials and leave |
Written Exam Format
The written exam is primarily administered via computer-based testing (CBT):
- Questions are presented one at a time on the screen
- You can navigate forward and backward through questions
- A review screen allows you to check flagged or unanswered questions
- The timer is displayed on screen
- If you finish early, you can submit and review
For candidates who require paper-based testing, this option is available at select sites with advance arrangement.
Oral Examination Option
Illinois provides an oral examination for candidates who:
- Have documented reading difficulties
- Have limited English proficiency
- Have a qualifying disability
The oral exam presents the same questions read aloud through headphones, and candidates mark their answers on a separate answer sheet. You must request this accommodation in advance through your program coordinator.
Retaking the Exam
If you do not pass one or both portions:
| Scenario | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Failed written only | Retake only the written portion |
| Failed skills only | Retake only the clinical skills portion |
| Failed both | Must retake both portions |
| Maximum attempts | 3 attempts within 12 months of BNATP completion |
| After 3 failures | Must complete a new BNATP before retesting |
Receiving Your Results
- Written exam results are typically available within 2-3 business days after testing
- Clinical skills results may take slightly longer due to evaluator processing
- Results are mailed to your address on file
- Cluster score reports show your performance in each of the six duty areas
- If you pass both portions, your name is added to the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry within approximately 2 weeks
If you fail only the written portion of the INACE, what must you do?
How many attempts are allowed to pass the INACE after BNATP completion?
What is the primary format for the INACE written exam in Illinois?