Certification by Examination


Certification by Examination

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How do I verify a school or program?

The list of approved CNA training programs can be found here.

The list of approved LPN and RN prelicensure nursing programs in Florida, as well as their current status such as Approved, Accredited, or Probation can be found here. You can search and compare by county, program name, or degree offered.

The status of a closed or terminated program may be verified via the Department of Health’s License Verification website here (you will enter the program name in the “Business Name” field).

Please note: the information available will be limited. Interested parties may email the Florida Board of Nursing at MQA.Nursing@flhealth.gov for additional information including closure and termination dates.

Can I take just the written CNA exam?

If you have completed a Florida approved CNA program within 6 months of your exam application, then you are only required to take the written component.

Am I required to attend a CNA training program or may I simply challenge the exam?

CNA applicants may “challenge” the exam. Completion of a state approved CNA training program is not required unless the applicant has failed part of the exam three times.

What exams are required to become a certified nursing assistant in the state of Florida?

You must pass both the written and the performance exam offered by the testing vendor, Prometric, to be certified as a nursing assistant in the state of Florida. The only exception to this is for approved Endorsement candidates.

How long are my exam scores valid?

Examination results are valid for two years. So, if you pass one part of the exam, you must pass the second part within two years or you will have to repeat both parts of the exam to be certified.

Is there a time limit to take the part of exam, which I failed?

Yes, you must pass both parts of the examination within two years to be certified in Florida.

What if I fail part of the exam three times?

You must complete a Board approved CNA training program (full 120 hour program) and retake both parts of the exam. You can find a list of approved training programs at https://floridasnursing.gov/education-and-training-programs/.

What ORI number do I use to do my Livescan?

CNA Applicant – EDOH0380Z

LPN/RN Applicant – EDOH4420Z

APRN Applicant – EDOH4420Z

LPN/RN Multi-State Upgrade Applicant – EDOH4420Z