200+ Free DC CNA Practice Questions
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Key Facts: DC CNA Exam
60
Written Questions
NNAAP format
70%
Written Passing Score
42/60 questions
$55
Written Exam Fee
Credentia
75 hrs
Training Required
DC Health / OBRA
24 hrs
CE Every 2 Yrs
D.C. Official Code § 3-1205.10
2 hrs
LGBTQ+ CE Required
DC-specific mandate
The District of Columbia CNA exam uses the NNAAP format administered by Credentia. DC Health (formerly DC DOH) oversees the Nurse Aide Registry. DC's unique renewal requirement mandates 2 hours of LGBTQ+ cultural competency CE under D.C. Official Code § 3-1205.10(b)(5) — one of the nation's most progressive requirements. DC's diverse population makes cultural competency critical on the exam and in practice.
About the DC CNA Exam
The DC CNA exam is administered by Credentia in the NNAAP format: 60 scored multiple-choice questions (90 min) plus a clinical skills demonstration. Passing certifies you for the DC Health Nurse Aide Registry. DC requires at least 75 hours of approved training (16 clinical) before testing. DC mandates 24 hours of CE every 2 years for renewal, including 2 hours of LGBTQ+ cultural competency.
Questions
60 scored questions
Time Limit
90 minutes written + skills test
Passing Score
70% written + 100% skills
Exam Fee
$55 written / $110 skills only (Credentia / DC Health (HRLA))
DC CNA Exam Content Outline
Basic Nursing Skills
Infection control, safety/emergency, therapeutic procedures, vital signs, data collection and reporting
Activities of Daily Living
Hygiene, dressing and grooming, nutrition and hydration, elimination, rest and comfort
Member of Health Care Team
Delegation, scope of practice, chain of command, DC Health regulations, teamwork
Emotional & Mental Health
Dementia care, anxiety, depression, behavioral support, person-centered approaches
Restorative Skills
Range of motion, ambulation, transfers, self-care promotion, adaptive devices
Communication
Verbal/nonverbal, therapeutic communication, reporting, documentation, language access
Client Rights
OBRA rights, DC Long-Term Care Ombudsman, privacy, autonomy, advance directives
Legal & Ethical Behavior
DC Adult Protective Services, mandatory reporting, HIPAA, scope of practice, ethics
Spiritual & Cultural Needs
Cultural sensitivity, LGBTQ+ inclusive care (DC-specific CE requirement), religious accommodation
How to Pass the DC CNA Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 70% written + 100% skills
- Exam length: 60 questions
- Time limit: 90 minutes written + skills test
- Exam fee: $55 written / $110 skills only
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
DC CNA Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
Who administers the DC CNA exam?
Credentia administers the DC CNA competency exam (NNAAP format) on behalf of DC Health's Health Regulation and Licensing Administration (HRLA). The exam has two parts: a 60-question written test (90 minutes) and a clinical skills demonstration. After passing, you are listed on the DC Nurse Aide Registry.
What are DC's CNA training requirements?
DC requires a minimum of 75 hours of state-approved CNA training before testing, including at least 16 hours of supervised clinical practice. Training programs must be approved by DC Health. This meets the federal minimum requirement under OBRA 1987.
What is DC's unique CNA renewal requirement?
DC CNAs must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years for renewal. Uniquely, DC requires: (1) 2 hours specifically in LGBTQ+ cultural competency or specialized clinical training under D.C. Official Code § 3-1205.10(b)(5), and (2) 10% of total hours (about 2.4 hours) in DC public health priorities set by the Director. A criminal background check clearance is also required.
How do I report abuse as a DC CNA?
DC CNAs are mandatory reporters under the DC Adult Protective Services Act. You must immediately report suspected abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, or self-neglect to DC Adult Protective Services (202-541-3950) and to your supervisor. The DC Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program also accepts complaints about nursing facility care.
What is the DC CNA exam fee?
Credentia charges $55 for the written examination and $110 for the skills evaluation only. Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
How do I transfer my CNA certification to DC?
If you are already listed on another state's nurse aide registry as active and in good standing, you may apply for reciprocity to enroll on the DC Nurse Aide Registry through the Credentia Platform without retesting.