Introduction

This handbook is designed for candidates who want to be listed on the District of Columbia Nurse Aide Registry. It provides you the information of how to apply and take the National Nurse Aide Examination. This handbook will explain all the necessary information about the test.

The National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP)

The National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP®) was developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc., The NNAAP® Examination is an evaluation of Nurse Aide-related knowledge, skills, and abilities. Its purpose is to determine if you understand and can safely perform the job of an entry-level Nurse Aide.

About Credentia

This handbook was created by Credentia in partnership with the HHA Department of Health. Credentia is a nationally recognized provider of testing services to develop, score, and report the results of the HHA Nurse Aide Registry test. Credentia also processes applications, schedules examinations, and administers the tests.

Criminal Background Check

To be hired as a Certified Nurse Aide in the District of Columbia and have direct contact with residents or beneficiaries, you must pass a criminal background check and your name may not appear on any Nurse Aide abuse registry. After passing the Nurse Aide exam, visit https://dchealth.dc.gov/bon to find instructions on registering, paying, and scheduling your fingerprint scan for the background check. 

You must pass the background check to be placed on the Registry. If you have any questions regarding the criminal background check requirement, please contact the Criminal Background Unit of the Health Regulation & Licensing Administration at (202) 442-9004.