It is easy to earn CNA License in Massachusetts and to obtain the license a nursing student or nurse aide need to complete 3-4 weeks CNA Training program, which include classroom instruction and clinical hands-on training, appear for the competency evaluation test for obtaining CNA License and clear it.  The passing of the test award them certification and listing with the Massachusetts Certified Nurse Aide Registry, managed by Department of Public Health (DPH).

It is also to be noted that in Massachusetts, all testing are regulated through American Red Cross Testing Office and an aspiring CNA candidate must submit relevant documents, such as Eligibility Documentation Copy and Money Order or cashier check drawn on American Red Cross for eligibility to sit for CNA exam.

Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation (NACE) consists of two separate segments including, written/Oral test and clinical skill test. The exam questions are based on nurse aide training program instructions, and nursing knowledge and skills needed to perform CNA duties, while working in the long term care units or taking every day nursing care of the patient.

Written/Oral Test questions features 60 Multiple Choice Questions on subjects, such as Safety, Infection control, Nursing duties and responsibilities, Mental Health, Basic Nursing skills and Resident rights. Time offered for the test is 2 hours. Oral tests are administered through CD player at ARC Regional test sites.

Clinical Test features 5 randomly selected skills that have to be demonstrated on a dummy or live model, also known as client.

The passing of both tests awards CNA License in Massachusetts and automatic listing with state Nurse Aide Registry.

Disable candidate can request for special testing arrangements or accommodations and that is permitted according to federal and state laws.