200+ Free Minnesota CNA Practice Questions
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Key Facts: Minnesota CNA Exam
70
Knowledge Exam Questions
Headmaster
74%
Passing Score Required
52/70 correct
120 min
Knowledge Exam Time
Headmaster
$200
Knowledge Exam Fee
MDH/Headmaster
75 hrs
Minimum Training
16 clinical + 16 lab
8 hrs
Paid Work to Renew
Per 24 months
Minnesota uses Headmaster/D&S for CNA testing. The knowledge exam has 70 multiple-choice questions with a 74% passing score (52/70 correct) and a 2-hour time limit. Training requires 75 hours minimum (16 clinical, 16 lab). The exam fee is $200. Candidates have multiple attempts within 24 months of training to pass. Registry renewal requires at least 8 hours of paid employment every 24 months. Minnesota offers a Nursing Facility Scholarship program for eligible candidates.
About the Minnesota CNA Exam
The Minnesota CNA competency exam is administered by Headmaster (D&S Diversified Technologies) on behalf of the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). The exam consists of a 70-question knowledge test with a 2-hour time limit and a clinical skills test. Minnesota requires completion of a state-approved 75-hour CNA training program (minimum 16 clinical hours) and passing both exam components to be listed on the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry.
Questions
70 scored questions
Time Limit
2 hours (120 minutes)
Passing Score
74% (52/70 correct)
Exam Fee
$200 (plus $10 for audio exam option) (Headmaster (D&S Diversified Technologies) / MN MDH)
Minnesota CNA Exam Content Outline
Basic Nursing Skills
Vital signs, positioning, transfers, range of motion, nutrition, hydration, elimination, skin care, therapeutic diets, I&O measurement
Personal Care Skills
Bathing, grooming, oral care, dressing, perineal care, bed making, assistive devices, adaptive equipment, nail care
Infection Control
Standard precautions, hand hygiene, PPE donning/doffing, transmission-based precautions, sterilization, disinfection, bloodborne pathogens
Safety & Emergency
Fall prevention, body mechanics, safe transfers, fire safety (RACE/PASS), emergency response, disaster preparedness, equipment safety
Role & Responsibilities
Scope of practice, delegation, professional boundaries, ethical behavior, MDH Nurse Aide Registry requirements, NATCEP standards
Communication
Therapeutic communication, active listening, cultural sensitivity, reporting observations, SBAR, documentation basics, end-of-life communication
Mental Health & Social Needs
Depression, anxiety, dementia care, behavioral symptoms, therapeutic approaches, person-centered care, validation therapy
Resident Rights & Legal/Ethical
OBRA rights, dignity and privacy, informed consent, grievance procedures, right to refuse, HIPAA, Minnesota abuse reporting
How to Pass the Minnesota CNA Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 74% (52/70 correct)
- Exam length: 70 questions
- Time limit: 2 hours (120 minutes)
- Exam fee: $200 (plus $10 for audio exam option)
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
Minnesota CNA Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
Who administers the Minnesota CNA exam?
The Minnesota CNA competency exam is administered by Headmaster (D&S Diversified Technologies LLP) on behalf of the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). Headmaster provides both the 70-question knowledge exam and the clinical skills evaluation at testing sites throughout Minnesota.
What is the passing score for the Minnesota CNA knowledge exam?
The Minnesota CNA knowledge exam requires a passing score of 74%, which means correctly answering at least 52 out of 70 questions. You have 2 hours (120 minutes) to complete the exam. The passing score was adjusted from 76% to 74% by MDH after thorough analysis of candidate performance data.
What are the training requirements for Minnesota CNAs?
Minnesota requires completion of a state-approved Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) with a minimum of 75 hours, including at least 16 hours of supervised clinical instruction and 16 hours of lab instruction. Training programs must be approved by the Minnesota Department of Health.
How much does the Minnesota CNA exam cost?
The Minnesota CNA knowledge exam costs $200. An audio exam option is available for an additional $10. Some candidates may be eligible for the DHS Nursing Facility Scholarship program, which can cover testing costs for employees of participating certified nursing facilities.
What happens if I fail the Minnesota CNA exam?
Candidates can retake the failed component (knowledge or skills). There is no limit on the number of attempts within the 24-month period after training program completion. However, after 24 months from training, you must complete a new approved training program before retesting.
How do I renew my Minnesota CNA certification?
Minnesota CNAs must renew their certification every 24 months. To renew, you must provide documentation of at least 8 hours of paid employment performing nursing-related services during the certification period under the supervision of a licensed nurse. Renewal is processed through the Minnesota Nurse Aide Registry.
What is a Challenge Candidate in Minnesota?
A Challenge Candidate is someone who has not completed a Minnesota state-approved CNA training program within the last two years but is eligible to test based on other qualifications (such as nursing students who have completed fundamentals courses or military-trained medics). Challenge candidates must contact test sites directly to schedule.
How do I report suspected abuse or neglect in Minnesota?
Minnesota CNAs are mandatory reporters. Suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults should be reported immediately to the Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center at 1-844-880-1574 (toll-free). Reports can also be made online at mn.gov/dhs. In emergencies, call 911. You must also report to your supervising nurse.