Minnesota State Registry Test for Nursing Assistants (NA)

Riverland is an approved test site for the Minnesota State Registry Test. This competency exam meets state and federal OBRA requirements.

There are two parts to the MN State Registry Test:

  • Knowledge Test (on-campus)
  • Skills Test (on-campus)

You must register for and pass both parts to become certified and listed on the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry.

Check for upcoming dates

How to Register:

Download Resources:

If you have not completed a MN state-approved NA training program within the last 2 years, you are still eligible to test as a Challenge candidate.

When registering, enter "Challenge" as your candidate status.

Once registered and paid:

  • Your seat is secured for that test event.
  • Approximately 1 week before your test date:
    • You’ll be scheduled in the TMU testing platform.
    • Challenge candidates will be added to TMU.
    • You’ll receive an email with:
      • Your Skills test time slot
      • Campus location and arrival instructions

Tip: Check your junk/spam folder for this email.

  • Knowledge and Skills tests do not need to be taken on the same day.
  • Both tests must be taken on campus.
  • You must register for and pass both to be certified.
  • If you fail a test, you must register and pay for a new test date.

  • Call 507-433-0573 at least 3 business days in advance.
  • Do NOT remove yourself from the TMU test event.
  • $15 fee applies for each cancellation or transfer.
  • No-Shows:
    • Lateness or missing required ID results in a no-show status
    • No refunds; must pay to re-register
  • No-Show Exception:
    • Possible partial/full refund for contagious illness or injury
    • Does not guarantee refund but may reduce re-registration fee

After completing the NA course, students are prepared to take the state competency test.

Register through the Customized Training & Education Department.

Eligibility for Certification Exam

You are eligible to test if you meet one of the following:

  • NA Candidate: Completed a state-approved NA program. Must take written and skills tests.
  • Test-Out Candidate: You do not meet other eligibility routes. Examples:
    • Trained in another country
    • Never completed an NA program
    • Not worked as an NA in past 2 years
    • Out-of-state without reciprocity
    • Student or graduate nurse

Contact for Testing Questions

Shelly Mehus
  507-433-0573
  shelly.mehus@riverland.edu