How to Get Your SRNA Certification in Kentucky (KY): 2026 Guide
Kentucky uses the KCTCS/Headmaster SRNA exam. Expect 75 training hours and fees around $100–$120.
In Kentucky, the credential is called a State Registered Nurse Aide (SRNA), not CNA. The process is similar to other states: graduate from an approved program, pass the Kentucky SRNA exam administered through KCTCS with Headmaster support, and get listed on the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry.
This guide explains the SRNA pathway, costs, exam structure, and testing sites across the Commonwealth.
Kentucky SRNA at a glance
- Testing vendor: KCTCS / Headmaster (TMU)
- Training hours: 75 total (59 classroom + 16 clinical)
- Exam format: knowledge test + 5-skill hands-on evaluation
- Passing score: contact KCTCS for current passing standards
- Exam fee: approximately $100–$120 combined
- Registry: Kentucky Board of Nursing (KBN)
- Renewal: 24 months
Who oversees SRNA certification in Kentucky
The Kentucky Board of Nursing (KBN) maintains the registry. The Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) coordinates testing, and Headmaster provides the testing platform through its TMU portal.
Training programs in Kentucky
Kentucky requires a 75-hour state-approved SRNA program. Programs are offered at:
- Community colleges (KCTCS system of 16 colleges: Ashland, Big Sandy, Bluegrass, Elizabethtown, Gateway, Hazard, Henderson, Hopkinsville, Jefferson, Madisonville, Maysville, Owensboro, Somerset, Southcentral, Southeast, West Kentucky)
- Private training academies
- Long-term care facilities with in-house programs
- Some high school career and technical education programs
Most programs run 4–8 weeks. Tuition typically ranges from $500 to $1,200 plus $100–$200 for uniforms, textbooks, and the Kentucky State Police background check.
The Kentucky SRNA exam: KCTCS/Headmaster details
The exam has two parts:
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Knowledge Test — multiple-choice questions on resident rights, basic nursing skills, infection control, communication, and safety.
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Skills Test — hands-on demonstration of 5 randomly selected skills in front of a Headmaster nurse evaluator.
Register through KCTCS's Headmaster scheduling portal. Many Kentucky candidates test through their training program's TMU instance.
How much does the Kentucky SRNA exam cost?
- Both parts combined — ~$100–$120
- Knowledge retake — ~$50
- Skills retake — ~$70
- State background check — $15–$25
Training program tuition is paid separately and ranges $500–$1,200.
Where to take the test in Kentucky
- Louisville — frequent testing; multiple KCTCS-area partner sites
- Lexington — regular sessions; Bluegrass CC-area dates
- Bowling Green — periodic testing; Southcentral KCTCS-area dates
- Owensboro — scheduled through partner programs; limited dates
- Northern Kentucky / Covington — limited dates; book early
- Hazard — limited dates; book early in eastern Kentucky
- Paducah — limited dates; book early
Kentucky's testing footprint covers the major metros well. Eastern Kentucky (Appalachian counties) and far western Kentucky (Murray, Mayfield area) candidates may travel 60–90 minutes to the nearest active site.
Scheduling and what to bring on test day
Bring government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport), your KCTCS test confirmation, and clinical scrubs. The skills portion may be scheduled on a separate day. Arrival 15 minutes early is required.
After you pass: Kentucky certification and renewal
KBN lists you on the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry within 7–14 days. Your name appears on the public registry. Certification is valid for 24 months. To renew, complete at least 8 hours of paid nurse aide work during the certification period under the supervision of an RN.
Common pitfalls specific to Kentucky
- SRNA vs CNA: Use "SRNA," not "CNA," on Kentucky applications and resumes.
- KCTCS scheduling: Register through the KCTCS/Headmaster portal — not Prometric or Credentia.
- Reciprocity: Out-of-state CNAs must apply to KBN and may need additional documentation.
- Limited rural sites: Eastern Kentucky and far western Kentucky have fewer test dates; book early.
FAQ
How long does it take to become an SRNA in Kentucky? Most students finish training in 4–8 weeks and add 2–4 weeks for exam scheduling and registry listing.
Can I challenge the Kentucky SRNA exam? Generally no. KBN requires graduation from a state-approved SRNA training program.
How much is Kentucky SRNA training? Plan $500–$1,200 for tuition plus $150–$200 for supplies, the state background check, and the exam fee.
Why does Kentucky use SRNA instead of CNA? Kentucky uses the SRNA designation as a state-specific credential that signals registered status with KBN. Some neighboring states accept SRNA via reciprocity; check KBN's reciprocity list before relocating.
Practice for the Kentucky SRNA exam at /exam and review skills at /skills.
