Schedule an Exam

Schedule a Texas CNA Exam

Register in TULIP and schedule your Texas CNA State Exam (for DMS Care Training Center CNA graduates).

The state exam registration portal is now open through TULIP, the official Texas system for nurse aide applications. Once your TULIP profile and application are complete, our school will be notified to confirm your program completion. After approval, you will receive an email with instructions to schedule your state exam.

1) How to Start Your TULIP Application

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STEP 1: Go to the TULIP login page

Open TULIP Login
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STEP 2 (Very Important): Watch the tutorial video

Watch TULIP Setup Tutorial
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STEP 3: Review the official TULIP User Guide

User Guide PDF: (link your PDF here)
Key pages: Application setup (pages 8–12), process info (pages 88 & 102), exam application (page 312).

Need help logging in? Call TULIP support at 512-438-2630.

Tip: Bookmark TULIP and check your email (including spam) daily after submitting your application.

2) How to Pick the Exam Site, Date & Time

After TULIP Approval — How to Schedule Your CNA Exam:
Once your TULIP registration is complete and our school has approved your application, here’s what happens next:

  1. Watch for an Email from the Testing Vendor (IQT/Prometric)
    You will receive an official email (often from IQT@isoqualitytesting.com). This email will allow you to schedule your CNA state exam. Check your inbox and spam folder regularly.
  2. Choose Your Test Site, Date, and Time
    In the email, click the link to log into the scheduling system. Select your preferred test site (example: DMS Care Training Center or other available locations), then choose a date and time. After you confirm, you’ll receive a confirmation email.
  3. Prepare for the Exam
    Keep practicing your skills and reviewing your CNA study materials. Bring valid photo ID and arrive early. Contact us if you have any questions about test day or what to bring.

How long does the Texas CNA exam take?

The Texas CNA exam has two parts: a multiple-choice (written or oral) exam and a clinical skills exam. The multiple-choice portion includes 60 questions. You have 90 minutes for written, or 120 minutes for oral.

The clinical skills exam requires demonstrating 3–5 procedures. Time varies, but plan for about 30–60 minutes.

What do I need to bring for the CNA exam?

  • Your Authorization to Test letter/email (sent after scheduling)
  • Primary photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID — not expired)
  • Second ID (ex: school ID, library card, etc.)
  • Flat, nonskid, closed-toed shoes
  • Scrubs recommended (not required); a watch with a second hand is suggested

How many times can the CNA exam be retaken in Texas?

The Texas CNA exam can be taken three times. You must pass the Clinical Skills exam and the Written (or Oral) exam within three attempts. If you do not pass within three attempts, re-training is required before another attempt.

If you must re-take either exam, additional fees may apply (examples): Written Test ONLY ($35), Oral Test ONLY ($45), Clinical Skills ONLY ($90).

Schedule NHA Exam (CCMA, PCT/A, CPT, CMAA, CPhT, CET)

Follow these steps to register for the exam and prepare: NHA Scheduling Guide (PSI)

Check the NHA exam site: PSI Test Center Locator

Tip: Bookmark TULIP and check your email (including spam) daily after submitting your application.