Washington NAC skills test: how does it work?
Updated · Reviewed against official sources
In Washington the Nursing Assistant-Certified (NAC) exam has two parts and the in-person skills test comes first; you register for the online knowledge test only after you pass it. Most candidates schedule the skills test through their training program, which also sets its cost; others email the Nursing Commission to schedule.
| Step | What happens |
|---|---|
| 1 | Finish your training; get your NAC credential number |
| 2 | Part 1: in-person skills test, scheduled with your training program (or via nac.exam@doh.wa.gov) |
| 3 | Part 2: online knowledge test with Credentia, after you pass the skills test |
| Re-activation route (E8) | Only 1 retest allowed; both parts must be passed on the first attempt or retraining is required |
Which skills checklist?
The Nursing Commission links a Skills Lab Checklist and Competency Evaluation document from its NAC exam page. Use it, together with your program's checklist, to practice.
Quick answers
- Do I take the skills test or the knowledge test first in Washington?
- Skills first. The Commission says to register for the knowledge test after you pass the skills test.
- How much is the Washington skills test?
- The Commission says the cost is set by your nursing assistant program.
- Who runs the Washington knowledge test?
- Credentia (online).
What to do next
Once you pass skills, the knowledge test is next. Start practicing it now.
You must pass the written test too. Take the free 20-question practice test, or unlock the timed 60-question exam simulator, the full question bank and every skill checklist for $29 one-time (or $9/month).
Related guides
- Illinois CNA skills test list: is there a skills exam in Illinois?
- Credentia vs Prometric vs Headmaster: how the CNA skills test differs
- Credentia NNAAP skills list: all 23 skills and their tolerances
- Texas CNA skills test list 2026: which skills are on the exam?
- Florida CNA skills checklist: what's on the Prometric skills test?
- What skills are tested on the California CNA skills exam?
- PA CNA skills test: is hand washing always on it, and which skills are tested?
- North Carolina Nurse Aide I skills test: which skills are on it?
Sources
Checked: . Rules, fees and vendors change — always confirm with your state's official page and candidate handbook.